Final answer:
The penalty for practicing residential building without a license varies by jurisdiction, but generally includes fines, cease and desist orders, and possibly criminal charges for the 1st offense.
Step-by-step explanation:
The penalty for engaging in the practice of residential building without a license varies by jurisdiction, as building regulations and licensing requirements are typically enforced at the state level. However, generally speaking, the 1st offense penalty may include fines, a cease and desist order, and possibly criminal charges. The exact nature of the penalty can range from a civil fine of a few hundred dollars to a more significant financial penalty, depending on the locality and the specifics of the violation. Some jurisdictions may impose additional penalties such as the cost of court fees, probation, or community service. Repeat offenses often result in harsher penalties, including potentially larger fines and imprisonment.
In some cases, it may be a misdemeanor offense that can result in fines and/or imprisonment. For example, in the state of California, unlicensed contractors can be fined up to $5,000 and/or face up to six months in jail for a first offense.