Material Restrictions: Bakersfield vs Ridgecrest
How do material restrictions rules compare between Bakersfield, CA and Ridgecrest, CA?
Bakersfield has fewer restrictions than Ridgecrest.
Bakersfield, CA
Kern County
Bakersfield restricts certain fence materials under BMC Title 17 zoning regulations. Barbed wire, razor wire, concertina wire, and electrified fencing are generally prohibited in residential zones but may be allowed in industrial or agricultural zones with permits. Chain link is permitted in most zones but may be restricted in front yards or require slats for screening in some districts. All materials must be maintained in good repair.
View full Bakersfield rules →Ridgecrest, CA
Kern County
Kern County prohibits barbed wire and electrified fences in residential and Estate zones, with narrow exceptions: electrified fences are allowed only for animal containment on RS-combining-district lots of at least 2.5 acres. Sharp wire or points are also barred at the top of fences under 6 feet.
View full Ridgecrest rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bakersfield | Ridgecrest |
|---|---|---|
| Prohibited Residential | Barbed wire, razor wire, electrified | - |
| Allowed Industrial | Barbed wire on security fencing | - |
| Chain Link | Allowed; may need slats in front yard | - |
| Decorative | Wrought iron, wood, vinyl, masonry OK | - |
| Governing Code | BMC Title 17 | - |
| Barbed wire | - | Prohibited in/along property lines in residential zones |
| Buffer zone | - | No barbed wire within 3 feet of lot lines |
| Sharp wire/points | - | Banned atop fences under 6 ft |
| Electrified fences | - | Prohibited except animal containment on RS lots >= 2.5 acres |
| Code Section | - | Kern County Code § 19.08.210 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bakersfield FAQ
Can I install barbed wire on my residential property?
No. Bakersfield prohibits barbed wire, razor wire, and electrified fencing in residential zones under BMC Title 17. These materials are permitted on commercial and industrial properties, often only above 6 feet on security fencing.
Is chain link fencing allowed in Bakersfield?
Yes, chain link is permitted in most zones. However, some districts may restrict it in front yards or require privacy slats when used along arterial streets or visible locations. Check your specific zone with Planning.
Ridgecrest FAQ
Can I top my fence with razor wire or spikes for security?
Not in residential or Estate zones if the fence is under 6 feet tall — § 19.08.210 prohibits sharp wire or points projecting at the top of any fence or wall less than 6 feet in height.
When is an electrified fence allowed in Kern County?
Only on Residential Suburban (RS) combining-district lots that are at least 2.5 acres, and only for animal containment. Electrified security gates also require Kern County Fire Department approval.
Does this apply on agricultural property?
The barbed-wire prohibition specifically lists residential (E, R-1, R-2, R-3) districts. Agricultural (A) and exclusive-agriculture zones are not subject to the same residential restrictions.
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