Filming & Production in Kern County, CA (2026)
2 rules for unincorporated Kern County, California.
Verified from official government sources
Location Permits
Kern County's Division of Countywide Communications, through its Film Commission, holds sole authority to issue location film permits for any production company or individual recording within county limits. The rule reaches commercial movie, video, and still photography work anywhere in unincorporated Kern County, not just county parks.
Film Permits Required in Unincorporated Kern County
Some RestrictionsKern County Code § 2.47.030(H) (Division of Countywide Communications - Functions)
The functions and responsibilities of the division shall include, but not be limited to, the following: ... H.Act as the sole authority to accept and grant film permits in the county for production companies and individuals who wish to record within the county limits; and
Street Closures
Kern County treats a commercial film, TV, video or still-photo shoot that closes a public street the same as any other special event: Chapter 12.12 defines "event" to include such productions and requires a temporary road closure permit from the roads department before filming begins.
Kern County Film Shoot Street Closure Permit
Significant RestrictionsKern County Code § 12.12.010(A) (Event-Related Temporary Road Closures, definition of "Event")
"Event" means any non-parade activity, including but not limited to, any celebration; sporting activity; entertainment or theatrical activity; fundraising; political, fraternal or benevolent rally or gathering; short-term construction or repairs within the right-of-way; or commercial, motion picture, television, videotape or still photography production. However, "event" does not include the fi...
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