ADU Rules in Bakersfield, CA (2026)
ADU rules, permit requirements, size limits, and fees for Bakersfield, CA. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Yes, ADUs are allowed in Bakersfield, CA.
Bakersfield, CA permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on residential properties. ADUs — also called granny flats, in-law units, backyard cottages, or secondary suites — are secondary housing units on a single-family or multifamily lot. California state law actively preempts local restrictions, making ADU approval a streamlined ministerial process. In Bakersfield, the local building department handles ADU permit applications. Below you will find the current size limits, setbacks, fees, and timeline for building an ADU in Bakersfield.
ADU Size Limits
ADU Size Limits in Bakersfield: Detached ADU: up to 1200 sq ft (max height: 16 feet). Attached ADU: 50 percent of the existing primary dwelling. Junior ADU (JADU): up to 500 sq ft — must be within the existing primary dwelling or accessory structure. Detached ADU maximum 1,200 sqft per California Gov Code §66314(d)(5) (Stats. 2024 Ch. 7 §20). JADU maximum 500 sqft within existing space of primary structure per Gov Code §66333. Bakersfield's large suburban lots (often 7,000-10,000+ sqft) make detached ADUs feasible in most cases. Bakersfield's lower construction costs compared to coastal California make larger ADUs more economically accessible. Bakersfield Municipal Code 17.08.
| Type | Max Size | Max Height |
|---|---|---|
| Detached ADU | 1200 sq ft · Verified June 7, 2026 · Source | 16 feet · Verified June 7, 2026 · Source |
| Attached ADU | 50 percent of the existing primary dwelling · Verified June 7, 2026 · Source | 25 feet or the height limitation in the local zoning ordinance that applies to the primary dwelling, whichever is lower · Verified June 7, 2026 · Source |
| JADU | 500 sq ft · Verified June 7, 2026 · Source | Within existing structure |
Permit Fees
ADU Permit Fees in Bakersfield: Plan check fee: Varies. Building permit fee: Varies. Impact fees: None. School fees: None or N/A. Total estimated permit cost: Varies.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Plan Check | $300–$1,500 |
| Building Permit | $600–$3,000 depending on valuation |
| Impact Fees | None |
| School Fees | Exempt for ADUs under 500 sqft. Kern High School District and Bakersfield City School District fees apply for ADUs 500+ sqft. |
| Total Estimate | See official source |
Permit Timeline
Bakersfield ADU Permit Timeline: The permitting agency shall either approve or deny the application to create or serve an accessory dwelling unit within 60 days from the date the permitting agency receives a completed application if there is an existing single-family or multifamily dwelling on the lot. Apply through the local building department online permit portal. Contact them through their official website for current contact information.
Setback Requirements
ADU Setback Requirements in Bakersfield: Front setback: follows zone standard. Side setback: 4 feet. Rear setback: 4 feet.
Parking Requirements
Parking Requirements: Parking requirements have not been confirmed — see official source.
Restrictions & Requirements
- ADU must comply with Bakersfield Municipal Code 17.08 objective standards
- ADU cannot be sold separately from primary dwelling (unless Urban Lot Split per Gov Code §66411.7 applies)
- ADU must have permanent foundation
- Kern County air quality rules apply — San Joaquin Valley APCD regulations govern construction equipment emissions
- Bakersfield's extreme summer heat (110°F+) requires Title 24 energy compliance for ADU habitability
How Many ADUs Are Allowed?
Number of ADUs Allowed in Bakersfield: Single-family lots: not confirmed — see official source. Multifamily properties: not confirmed — see official source.
- Single-Family Lots
- 1 ADU + 1 JADU per single-family lot
- Multifamily Properties
- Up to 25% of existing units (minimum 2) as detached ADUs; internal space conversions permitted per unit
Statewide Preemption
ADU Preemption
California state law preempts local ADU rules — local governments cannot impose stricter standards.
View California preemption detailsState Law & Preemption
State Preemption: CA state law preempts local ADU restrictions. Bakersfield must approve compliant ADU applications by right.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Bakersfield?
Yes. Bakersfield, CA allows accessory dwelling units. On a single-family lot you can build 1 ADU + 1 JADU per single-family lot.
How big can an ADU be in Bakersfield?
The maximum size for a detached ADU in Bakersfield is 1,200 square feet. A Junior ADU (JADU) can be up to 500 square feet.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Bakersfield?
The typical ADU permit timeline in Bakersfield is The permitting agency shall either approve or deny the application to create or serve an accessory dwelling unit within 60 days from the date the permitting agency receives a completed application if there is an existing single-family or multifamily dwelling on the lot.. Total estimated permit fees are $1,200–$5,500 total permit fees.
Do I need extra parking for an ADU in Bakersfield?
Bakersfield parking rules for ADUs: No additional parking required for ADUs within one-half mile of Golden Empire Transit (GET) bus routes. No replacement parking required when garage is converted to ADU. Per California Gov Code §66322(a)(1) and §66314(d)(11) (Stats. 2024 Ch. 7 §20).
Do I have to live on-site to have an ADU in Bakersfield?
Owner-occupancy requirement in Bakersfield: No additional standards, other than those provided in Section 66314, shall be used or imposed, including an owner-occupant requirement.
Source: Bakersfield Municipal Code Chapter 17.08 (Zoning); California Government Code §§66314–66333 (Stats. 2024 Ch. 7 §20). Last verified April 6, 2026. View source