How big can an ADU be in Bakersfield?

Detached ADUs in Bakersfield can be up to 1,200 sq ft. Attached ADUs: 50% of primary home, max 1,200 sq ft. JADUs up to 500 sq ft.

How much does it cost to build an ADU in Bakersfield?

Build costs typically range $85,000 – $190,000, or $140 – $210 per square foot.

Verified March 14, 2026

ADU Regulations in Bakersfield, California

Q: What are the setback requirements for ADUs in Bakersfield?

Front: Same as primary dwelling. Side: 4 ft. Rear: 4 ft.

Kern County · CA · Pop. 380,000

Max ADU Size

1,200

sq ft detached

Rear Setback

4 ft

Permit Timeline

45–60 days

Build Cost

$85,000 – $190,000

Zoning

Allowed ADU Types

✓Detached ADU

✓Attached ADU

✓JADU (Junior ADU)

✓Garage Conversion

Max per lot: 2 ADUs✓ No owner-occupancy required

Consistent with California state ADU law

Source: City of Bakersfield — ADU Information · Bakersfield Municipal Code Section 17.08

Dimensions

Size & Setback Requirements

Detached

1,200

sq ft max

JADU

500

sq ft max

Attached

50% of primary home, max 1,200 sq ft

Setbacks

front

Same as primary dwelling

side

4 ft

rear

4 ft

Max height: 16 ft

Lot coverage: Per underlying zone regulations

Garage conversions permitted regardless of current setbacks if structure is legally built

Permitting

Permit Process

Department

Bakersfield Development Services

Review Timeline

45–60 days

Permit Fees

$3,500 – $9,000

Impact Fees

No impact fees on ADUs under 750 sq ft

Required Documents

›Site plan to scale
›Floor plans
›Elevation drawings
›Title 24 energy compliance
›Structural plans (new construction)

Bakersfield has a streamlined ADU application process

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Infrastructure

Utilities & Requirements

Solar

Required

Parking

Not required

Separate Meter

Optional

Fire Sprinklers

See note

Sewer: Tie into existing sewer; separate lateral may be required for detached units

Fire Sprinklers: Not required unless primary dwelling has them

Parking: No replacement parking required when garage is converted

Financials

ADU Costs in Bakersfield

Typical Build Cost

$85,000 – $190,000

Cost per Sq Ft

$140 – $210

Monthly Rental

$850 – $1,500/mo

Property Value Added

Adds $75,000 – $150,000 to property value

Available Grants & Programs

★CalHFA ADU Grant Program available for qualifying homeowners

Bakersfield offers some of the lowest ADU construction costs in California

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Disclaimer: Information is compiled from publicly available municipal codes for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, zoning, or construction advice. Regulations change frequently. Always verify with your local planning department. Last verified: March 14, 2026. Verify with Bakersfield Development Services

Bakersfield Quick Facts

Max size1,200 sq ft
Rear setback4 ft
Permit timeline45–60 days
Build cost$85,000 – $190,000
Rental income$850 – $1,500/mo
Owner occupancyNot required

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Official Source

City of Bakersfield — ADU Information

Bakersfield Municipal Code Section 17.08

Last verified: March 14, 2026

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