Permit Requirements: Bakersfield vs Ridgecrest
How do permit requirements rules compare between Bakersfield, CA and Ridgecrest, CA?
Ridgecrest has fewer restrictions than Bakersfield.
Bakersfield, CA
Kern County
Bakersfield requires building permits for fences over 6 feet tall and for most retaining walls under BMC Title 15 (Building and Construction) and Title 17 (Zoning). Fences 6 feet and under in side and rear yards generally do not require a permit but must still comply with zoning height and location standards. All fences, with or without permits, must meet vision clearance rules at corners and driveways.
View full Bakersfield rules →Ridgecrest, CA
Kern County
Per the California Building Code as adopted in Kern County Title 17, fences not over 7 feet high are exempt from building permits. Fences exceeding 7 feet, masonry retaining walls, and pool-enclosure barriers require a permit from the Kern County Public Works Building Inspection Division.
View full Ridgecrest rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bakersfield | Ridgecrest |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Trigger | Fences over 6 feet tall | - |
| Front Yard Limit | 3-4 feet typical | - |
| Side/Rear Limit | 6 feet without permit | - |
| Authority | Development Services Department | - |
| Contact | (661) 326-3733 | - |
| Permit exemption | - | Fences <= 7 feet high (CBC 105.2 as adopted) |
| Permit required | - | Fences > 7 feet, retaining walls, pool barriers |
| Issuing agency | - | Kern County Public Works - Building Inspection Division |
| Plan review timeline | - | 10 to 30 days typical |
| Zoning compliance | - | Required even if no building permit needed |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bakersfield FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 6-foot wood fence in my backyard?
Generally no. Fences 6 feet and under in side and rear yards do not require a building permit in Bakersfield, though they must still meet zoning setbacks and vision clearance rules. Check with Development Services if your property is on a corner lot.
Can I build a front yard fence?
Yes, but front yard fences are typically limited to 3-4 feet tall depending on your zoning district. Solid fences over 3 feet in front yards may require variances. Contact Planning at (661) 326-3733.
Ridgecrest FAQ
Do I need a permit for a typical 6-foot backyard fence in unincorporated Kern County?
No building permit is required because the fence is 7 feet or less. However, the fence must still comply with Title 19 zoning rules: 6 ft max in side/rear yards in residential zones, 4 ft max in front yards.
What if I want a fence taller than 7 feet?
You will need a building permit from Kern County Public Works Building Inspection, AND a discretionary planning permit because § 19.08.210 caps standard residential fence heights at 4-6 feet without director or commission approval.
Where do I apply for a fence permit in Kern County?
Kern County Public Works Building Inspection Division handles building permits for unincorporated areas. Visit kernpublicworks.com or the county service center. Cities within Kern County (Bakersfield, Delano, etc.) issue their own permits separately.
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