Tree Trimming: Bakersfield vs Ridgecrest
How do tree trimming rules compare between Bakersfield, CA and Ridgecrest, CA?
Bakersfield and Ridgecrest have similar restriction levels.
Bakersfield, CA
Kern County
Bakersfield regulates street tree trimming and maintenance under BMC Chapter 12.40 (Trees). A permit from the Recreation and Parks Department is required to trim, prune, or remove trees in the public right-of-way. Adjacent property owners are typically responsible for maintaining parkway trees but cannot prune them without city approval.
View full Bakersfield rules →Ridgecrest, CA
Kern County
Kern County requires non-ornamental trees to be limbed up at least 6 feet from the ground, with dead limbs removed and trees and limbs cleared at least 10 feet from chimney outlets, under Chapter 8.46 (Weeds and Other Hazardous Growths).
View full Ridgecrest rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bakersfield | Ridgecrest |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Code | BMC Ch. 12.40 | - |
| Permit Authority | Recreation and Parks Dept | - |
| Sidewalk Clearance | 8 ft minimum | - |
| Street Clearance | 14 ft minimum | - |
| Topping | Prohibited on street trees | - |
| Code Section | - | Kern County Code Chapter 8.46 |
| Tree Limbing Standard | - | 6 feet from ground (non-ornamental trees) |
| Chimney/Stovepipe Clearance | - | 10 feet (remove trees and limbs) |
| Dead Limbs | - | Must be removed if overhanging or adjacent to structures |
| ROW Plant Height Limit | - | 18 inches (§ 19.86.030(C)) |
| Enforcement | - | Kern County Fire Department + Cal Fire + Code Enforcement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bakersfield FAQ
Can I trim the city tree in front of my house?
Not without a permit. Street trees are owned by the city and must be pruned to ISA standards under a Recreation and Parks Department permit. Contact Parks at (661) 326-3866 to request service or a permit.
Do I need a permit to trim trees on my own property?
Generally no, unless the tree is a protected heritage tree or in a development-restricted area. You are responsible for keeping branches 8 ft above sidewalks and 14 ft above streets.
Ridgecrest FAQ
Am I required to remove dead trees on my property?
No, dead-tree removal is not mandatory. The Kern County Fire Department's Hazard Reduction Clearance Requirements Checklist states 'Although we can advise it, they are not currently required to completely remove dead trees!' However, dead limbs that overhang or are adjacent to structures must be removed.
Can I plant a tree in front of my house in the street right-of-way?
Yes, but with restrictions. Under Kern County Zoning Ordinance § 19.86.030(C), trees in setback areas must be planted no farther than 50 feet apart and no closer than 5 feet from the back of the sidewalk. No plant material that will grow over 18 inches in height may be planted in the street right-of-way unless authorized by the Kern County Roads Department.
What height should I trim my trees to?
Non-ornamental trees should be limbed up at least 6 feet from the ground per the Kern County Fire Department Hazard Reduction Clearance Requirements Checklist. Trees and limbs within 10 feet of stovepipe and chimney outlets must be removed entirely.
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