California § 16600.1 - It shall be unlawful to include a noncompete clause in an employment contract, or
Full text of California Public Contract Code - PCC § 16600.1 — It shall be unlawful to include a noncompete clause in an employment contract, or, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16600.1. It shall be unlawful to include a noncompete clause in an employment contract, or
(a) It shall be unlawful to include a noncompete clause in an employment contract, or to require an employee to enter a noncompete agreement, that does not satisfy an exception in this chapter. (b) (1) For current employees, and for former employees who were employed after January 1, 2022, whose contracts include a noncompete clause, or who were required to enter a noncompete agreement, that does not satisfy an exception to this chapter, the employer shall, by February 14, 2024, notify the employee that the noncompete clause or noncompete agreement is void. (2) Notice made under this subdivision shall be in the form of a written individualized communication to the employee or former employee, and shall be delivered to the last known address and the email address of the employee or former employee. (c) A violation of this section constitutes an act of unfair competition within the meaning of Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 17200).
Source: official California text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About California § 16600.1
What does Public Contract Code - PCC § 16600.1 cover?
Section 16600.1 ("It shall be unlawful to include a noncompete clause in an employment contract, or") is part of the Public Contract Code - PCC, the codified statutory law of California. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite California § 16600.1?
A common citation format is "Public Contract Code - PCC § 16600.1" (California). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of California law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the California official source linked on this page or consult a licensed California attorney.
How does California § 16600.1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in California can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in California.