Construction law is a general reference to various areas of law as applied to the design, engineering, and construction of buildings—including residential buildings and commercial buildings—as well as bridges, roads, pipelines, railroads, water transmission and distribution systems, electrical power transmission systems, sewerage systems, and other structures.

In addition to the law governing the filing and removal of mechanic’s and materialmen’s liens (also known as contractor liens), construction law includes contract law, employment law, personal injury law, insurance law, zoning law, and real estate law.

In California, construction law encompasses a wide range of legal areas as they relate to the construction industry. This includes the regulation of mechanic's and materialmen's liens, which are governed by California Civil Code sections 8000-9566. These statutes outline the procedures for filing and enforcing liens for unpaid labor or materials provided on a construction project. Contract law is also a significant aspect of construction law, with contracts being essential for defining the rights and obligations of parties involved in construction projects. Employment law is relevant as it pertains to the rights and responsibilities of construction workers and employers, including wage and hour laws, workplace safety, and workers' compensation. Personal injury law intersects with construction law in cases of accidents and injuries on construction sites. Insurance law is crucial for managing risks associated with construction projects, and zoning and real estate law govern land use and the entitlement processes necessary for construction projects to proceed. California's construction law framework is designed to ensure fair practices, safety standards, and legal recourse for parties involved in the construction industry.