Bidding 101
Outlines bid thresholds, statutory requirements, and procurement guidance for school districts. Covers construction, non-construction, professional services, cooperative purchasing, and delivery methods.School districts must comply with statutory bid limits when soliciting bids and awarding contracts. This page outlines bid limits for both construction and non-construction contracts, along with the applicable legal authority. Some alternative delivery methods, such as lease-leaseback, have separate requirements and solicitation processes. Always consult the applicable laws and local board policies and consult with legal counsel before proceeding.
Before starting any procurement, determine the type of purchase—construction, non-construction, professional services, or cooperative purchasing—as each is subject to different requirements.
Construction Projects (Public Works)
Construction projects generally include:
- Building construction
- Modernization projects
- HVAC replacements
- Roofing projects
- Site improvements
- Utility work
- Other facility improvements
What Is a Public Project?
Public Contract Code (PCC) §22002
defines a "public project" and clarifies that maintenance work identified in that section is not considered a public project for purposes of California Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Act (CUPCCAA) bidding thresholds.
Districts Participating in CUPCCAA
Districts that have adopted CUPCCAA must follow the annual bid limits established by the California Uniform Construction Cost Accounting Commission.
Current CUPCCAA thresholds and requirements can be found here: CA Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Act
Districts Not Participating in CUPCCAA
| Project Amount | Requirement |
|---|---|
| $15,000 or less | May be contracted without formal bidding |
| Over $15,000 | Formal competitive bidding is generally required |
Because this threshold is relatively low, many districts elect to participate in CUPCCAA.
Important Reminder
A project may not be divided into smaller contracts to avoid bidding requirements. This practice, known as bid splitting, is prohibited.
Non-Construction Bidding
Equipment, Materials, Supplies, and Repairs
These purchases are not considered public works construction projects.
Examples
- Furniture
- Classroom equipment
- Maintenance supplies
- Technology equipment
- General materials
- Non-construction repair services
Current Bid Threshold
| Purchase Amount | Requirement |
|---|---|
| $119,100 or less | Competitive bidding generally not required* |
| Over $119,100 | Competitive bidding generally required |
*District purchasing policies may impose additional quotation or procurement requirements.
Important Note
The bid threshold is adjusted periodically by the State Superintendent of Public Instruction.
The current threshold became effective January 1, 2026, and can be found at California Department of Education Bid Threshold Letter.
These bid threshold letters are posted to the CDE website at Correspondence.
Prohibited Practice
Purchases may not be split into multiple transactions to avoid bidding requirements.
Professional Services
Professional services are generally procured based on qualifications, expertise, and experience rather than through a low-bid process.
Examples:
- Legal services
- Financial consulting
- Environmental consulting
- Educational consulting
- Specialized advisory services
Bidding Requirement
| Service Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Professional Services | Formal competitive bidding is generally not required |
Districts should document the basis for selecting professional service providers and ensure the procurement process complies with applicable Board policies and legal requirements.
Architects, Engineers, and Construction Managers
Construction-related professional services must be selected through a qualifications-based selection process.
Districts evaluate firms based on:
- Qualifications
- Relevant experience
- Technical expertise
- Capacity to perform the work
After the most qualified firm is identified, the district negotiates scope and price.
Cooperative Purchasing and Piggyback Contracts
School districts may utilize contracts that have already been competitively solicited and awarded by another public agency or approved purchasing organization.
Common Cooperative Purchasing Options
Piggyback Contracts
- Authorized under Public Contract Code §20118 and §20113, as applicable
- Allow districts to purchase from existing competitively awarded public agency contracts
California Multiple Award Schedules (CMAS)
- State-administered cooperative contracts
- May be used for a variety of goods and services
More information about the CMAS can be found at California Multiple Award Schedules
.
Bidding Requirement
| Procurement Method | District Bid Required? |
|---|---|
| CMAS | Generally No |
| Qualifying Piggyback Contract | Generally No |
When properly utilized, these purchasing methods may satisfy competitive procurement requirements and eliminate the need for the district to conduct its own separate solicitation. When considering using the cooperative purchasing process, please consult all applicable Board policies and legal requirements.
Important Reminder
Districts should review each cooperative contract to ensure:
- Statutory requirements are met
- The contract was competitively solicited
- The district has authority to utilize the contract
- Board policies and administrative regulations are followed