Zoning Restrictions: Bakersfield vs Delano
How do zoning restrictions rules compare between Bakersfield, CA and Delano, CA?
Bakersfield and Delano have similar restriction levels.
Bakersfield, CA
Kern County
Home-based businesses in Bakersfield must obtain a Home Occupation Permit and a city business tax certificate under BMC Title 5 and Title 17 (Zoning). Home occupations are allowed in all residential zones if the use is clearly incidental to residential use, with no more than one non-resident employee and no outward commercial indication.
View full Bakersfield rules →Delano, CA
Kern County
Every business in Delano — including in-home operations — must obtain a Business Tax Certificate (BTC) from the Delano Finance Department. Home occupations must also conform to use limits in the underlying residential zone.
View full Delano rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bakersfield | Delano |
|---|---|---|
| Permits Required | Home Occupation + Business Tax Cert. | - |
| Code | BMC Title 5 & Title 17 | Delano DC §20.10.60 |
| Non-Resident Employees | Max 1 | - |
| Outdoor Activity | Not allowed | - |
| Prohibited Uses | Auto repair, kennels, retail | - |
| Required | - | Business Tax Certificate (BTC) |
| Contact | - | Finance Dept (661) 721-3310 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bakersfield FAQ
Do I need a permit for my online home business in Bakersfield?
Yes. Even purely online or e-commerce businesses operating from home require a Home Occupation Permit from Planning and a business tax certificate from the City Treasurer. Fees are modest and compliance avoids code enforcement action.
Can I run a home business out of my garage?
Generally no. BMC Title 17 limits home occupations to the primary dwelling. Use of the garage or accessory structures for business typically requires a zoning variance or a change in the underlying zoning classification.
Delano FAQ
Do I need a BTC for an online business?
Yes — every business operating in Delano, including online businesses run from a home, requires the certificate.
Compare other topics
See how Bakersfield and Delano compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool