Zoning Restrictions: Bakersfield vs Ridgecrest
How do zoning restrictions rules compare between Bakersfield, CA and Ridgecrest, CA?
Bakersfield and Ridgecrest 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 →Ridgecrest, CA
Kern County
Kern County Zoning Ordinance § 19.94.040 limits home occupations to 25% of the gross area of one floor of the residence (or equivalent accessory building space), restricts work to occupants of the residence, prohibits outside storage, requires appointment-only operation, and caps business vehicles at five tons. The use must remain compatible with the residential character of the neighborhood.
View full Ridgecrest rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bakersfield | Ridgecrest |
|---|---|---|
| Permits Required | Home Occupation + Business Tax Cert. | - |
| Code | BMC Title 5 & Title 17 | - |
| Non-Resident Employees | Max 1 | - |
| Outdoor Activity | Not allowed | - |
| Prohibited Uses | Auto repair, kennels, retail | - |
| Standards Section | - | § 19.94.040 |
| Floor Area Limit | - | 25% of one floor (or equivalent accessory building) |
| Employees | - | Occupants of the residence only (AB 1616 exception) |
| Operation Mode | - | By appointment only |
| Vehicle Weight Limit | - | 5 tons |
| Outside Storage | - | Prohibited |
| On-site Sales | - | Only products produced on the premises, incidental |
| Cottage Food Parking | - | 2 spaces/dwelling + 1 per employee (§ 19.82.020L) |
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.
Ridgecrest FAQ
How much of my house can I use for a home business?
Per § 19.94.040(2), no more than 25 percent of the gross area of one floor of the residence may be used for the home occupation. An equivalent amount of space in an enclosed detached accessory building may be used as an alternative.
Can I have employees who don't live with me?
Generally no. § 19.94.040(1) requires the home occupation be conducted solely by occupants of the residence. The only exception is for Cottage Food Operations permitted under California AB 1616, which allow limited non-resident food workers under separate parking requirements.
Can customers walk in during business hours?
No. § 19.94.040(5) requires the home occupation be conducted by appointment only. Walk-in customer traffic is not permitted, and § 19.94.040(7) bars any noise, vibration, glare or other nuisance beyond what is normal in a residential area.
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