Tiny Homes: Bakersfield vs Ridgecrest
How do tiny homes rules compare between Bakersfield, CA and Ridgecrest, CA?
Bakersfield and Ridgecrest have similar restriction levels.
Bakersfield, CA
Kern County
Bakersfield allows tiny homes on foundations as ADUs under Gov Code 65852.2 if they meet California Residential Code minimums (at least 150 sq ft with a bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom). Movable tiny houses on wheels (THOWs) built to ANSI 119.5 are permitted only as JADUs or as temporary accessory units on a parcel with a primary dwelling, per HCD guidance, and must be anchored and connected to utilities. RV-classified tiny homes cannot be used as permanent residences except in licensed mobile home parks. Tiny home communities require mobile home park or subdivision approval.
View full Bakersfield rules →Ridgecrest, CA
Kern County
California HCD guidance and Health and Safety Code 18007 classify many tiny homes on wheels as manufactured housing or ADUs, granting statewide siting protections.
View full Ridgecrest rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bakersfield | Ridgecrest |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Statute | - | Health & Safety Code 18007 |
| ADU pathway | - | Gov Code 65852.2 |
| Standards | - | HUD or ANSI 119.5 |
| Regulator | - | HCD |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bakersfield FAQ
Ridgecrest FAQ
Can I park a tiny home on wheels in my backyard full time?
Generally no, unless it qualifies as an ADU on a foundation or your city has a specific movable-tiny-house ordinance. RVs are limited to RV parks.
Are foundation-built tiny homes protected by ADU law?
Yes. A tiny home meeting ADU size and code requirements receives the full ministerial approval protections of Government Code 65852.2 statewide.
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