California Code, Public Contract Code - PCC § 20490

If the contractor abandons the work, or fails to proceed with the work as rapidly as required by his contract, the legislative body may declare him in default and relet the work in the manner set forth in this chapter for letting the original contract, or it may complete the work by direct purchase of labor and materials, and retain out of any funds due or to become due the contractor the amount of the cost of the work and any expense incidental to reletting the contract or performing the work, and also hold the contractor and his sureties responsible for such cost and expense, and for any damages resulting from the abandonment or failure upon his bond.

Notice of the declaration of default shall be given by the clerk of the legislative body by personal service or by mail.  Upon receipt of such notice, the contractor shall forthwith quit the work, and shall receive no payment for any work performed thereafter unless ordered to resume the work by the legislative body.