city · Kern County · California

Bakersfield, California Building Permits & Zoning

Regulatory data for residential homebuilders and land developers

5.8

Friction Index Moderate Regulatory Environment

Zoning & Requirements

Overlay Districts

Permitted By-Right Uses

Permitting Requirements

✓ Building permit application with site plan (licensed CA architect/engineer stamp)
✓ CEQA categorical exemption verification (Infill Exemption Class 32 for urban infill)
✓ Title 24 Part 6 energy compliance documentation (HERS rater required)
✓ CalGreen (Title 24 Part 11) checklist — mandatory
✓ Grading permit application with soils/geotechnical report
✓ Stormwater SWPPP (sites ≥1 acre, NPDES permit required)
✓ Water availability letter — Kern County Water Agency or city water
✓ Sewer connection permit — City of Bakersfield Public Works
✓ Fire department review — Fire Flow Analysis, sprinklers if >3,600 sq ft
✓ Tree removal permit (if applicable)
✓ School impact fee payment (Kern High School District + elementary)
✓ Solar requirement compliance (Title 24 mandatory solar)
✓ SB 9/ADU compliance acknowledgment

Process Notes

Staffing & Operations

One of California's most builder-friendly large cities. Online permit portal (eTRAKiT). Pre-application conference recommended for subdivisions. Strong production builder market.

Recent Changes

City adopted 6th Cycle Housing Element Jan 2025 (HCD-certified). Impact fees frozen for 2026 to attract development. SB 9 guidelines adopted with streamlined ministerial review.

Rezone Probability

74%

Contact Information

Permit Office Phone

(661) 326-3720

Official Website

https://www.bakersfieldcity.us/government/city-departments/development-services

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