ADU permit process in Bakersfield, California
Last verified August 29, 2026
Prepared by GetYourPermit editorial teamReport an error
This guide includes the portions of the City permit process that passed our evidence review. Confirm project-specific requirements with the City before submitting.
Where to apply
- Permit portal
- City Online Portal System
Step by step
- 1
Submit online ADU Site Plan Review
Submit online Site Plan Review application and pay fees Planning application
- 2
Planning prescreen, corrections, and oversight review
Respond to prescreen corrections and resubmit when requested Planning approval or correction request
- 3
Receive Planning approval
Receive batch-stamped Notice of Decision and approved plans Online stamp approval and approved plans
- 4
Submit Building Permit application
Submit online Building Permit application Upload construction documents and Planning stamp approval Building application
- 5
Building prescreen and department review
Address code-review requirements Approved Building plans or review requirements
- 6
Pay final fees and receive Building Permit
Pay final fees and pull permit Issued Building Permit
- 7
Schedule construction inspections
Call or email City to schedule appropriate inspections during construction Construction inspections
- 8
Complete approved construction and City permit finalization
Complete construction according to approved plans City finalizes permit
What you need to submit
- Site plan, floor plan, elevations, and two forms
- Complete construction documents and Planning online stamp approval
Pre-approved ADU plans
Use Bakersfield’s official page to confirm which designs, site conditions, and supplemental documents qualify. Plan-check timing still depends on the project and city review.
View pre-approved plansProject-specific next step
Build your Bakersfield permit report
Choose your ADU type and size to bring the City process, researched permit fees, and early construction budget into one planning report.
Sources for this guide
Additional city reference pages
The official City page confirms that the live City page currently links the fee schedule dated July 1, 2026.
Accessed August 28, 2026
The live-linked City schedule is dated July 1, 2026. It publishes a $291 minimum building permit charge, conditional $89 and $211 City charges, and the residential Strong Motion formula; the core project fee still requires Building staff confirmation.
Accessed August 28, 2026