Bakersfield's Zoning Ordinance (BMC Title 17) establishes maximum building height limits that vary by zoning district. Residential zones typically limit structures to 35 feet, while commercial and industrial zones may allow greater heights depending on the specific zone classification.
In residential zones (R-1, R-2, R-3), the maximum building height is typically 35 feet. Commercial zones may allow heights from 35 to 75 feet depending on the specific zone. Height is generally measured from the finished grade to the highest point of the structure. Exceptions may be granted for architectural features such as chimneys, church steeples, and communication towers through conditional use permits. Building height interacts with setback requirements — taller buildings may require greater setbacks.
Exceeding height limits without approval is a zoning violation. Structures that exceed allowed heights may be required to be modified or demolished. Building permits are reviewed against height limits before issuance. Height violations discovered during construction may result in stop-work orders.
Bakersfield, CA
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See how Bakersfield's structure height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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