Building Setbacks & Zoning in Bakersfield, CA (2026)
2 verified building setbacks & zoning rules for Bakersfield, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Setback Rules
Beyond garage and carport setbacks, Bakersfield's R-1 zone sets a flat front-yard structural setback of fifteen feet to living space and twelve feet to architectural extensions like porches (BMC § 17.10.040(D)(5)(d)). The R-2 zone is tighter, twelve feet to living space, nine feet to porches, while side and rear yard minimums vary by adjacent zone.
Bakersfield Front Yard Setback Minimum Fifteen Feet
Some RestrictionsBakersfield Municipal Code § 17.10.040(D)(5)(d), (E)(2)(d), (E)(3)(c)
d. Front yard structural setbacks shall be a minimum of fifteen feet to living space and twelve feet to architectural extensions, such as porches. ... 2. Front Setback. ... d. Front yard structural setbacks shall be a minimum of twelve feet to living space and nine feet to architectural extensions, such as porches. ... 3. Side Setback. ... c. For multi-unit developments where the side setback s...
Structure Height Limits
Bakersfield caps residential building height by zone under Table 17.10-2: 35 feet in the R-S, R-1, R-2 and R-H zones, rising to 45 feet in R-3, 65 feet in R-4, 80 feet in R-5 and 120 feet in R-6. Roof equipment and chimneys may add up to 30 feet more.
Bakersfield Residential Building Height Limits
Some RestrictionsBakersfield Municipal Code § 17.10.030 (Table 17.10-2)
17.10.030 Residential zone development standards. The intent of Table 17.10-2 is to clearly and precisely establish the basic site and structure regulations that apply to all developments in each of the residential zones. Table 17.10-2, Height (max. ft.): R-S — 35; R-1 — 35; R-2 — 35; R-3 — 45; R-4 — 65; R-5 — 80; R-6 — 120; R-H — 35.
Looking for Kern County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Bakersfield city rules.
Building Setbacks & Zoning in Kern County →