Permits

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Kern County requires some businesses to obtain permits to conduct their operations. These requirements vary based on location, type of service provided and whether construction is involved. Additionally, Kern County requires a film permit for all projects filming within the county boundaries.

City-specific permits may also be required for businesses operating within an incorporated City. See our City Requirements page for links to the official websites of the incorporated cities in Kern County.

Building Permit

A building permit is required for any construction in unincorporated areas of Kern County which physically changes or adds structures to your property. It is also required for any work regulated by local Codes and Ordinances, such as: new buildings, room additions, patio covers, swimming pools, roof alterations, garage conversions, exterior stucco, replacements of water heaters and other plumbing fixtures, air conditioning units, new electrical service, rewiring, moving or demolishing a building, and installation of heating equipment.

For more information on when and how to apply for a building permit, visit the Kern County Public Works Department Building Inspection page.

Building Permit Application

Building FAQs

Building Permit – Check Status

Building Regulations (PDF)

Environmental Health Permits

Per Kern County Code of Ordinance 8.04, the Director of Public Health Services is responsible for ensuring all health and safety standards are adhered to in the following business and service activities: food, water, land, waste, and consumer protection. For more information visit the Permitting & Compliance section of the Kern County Public Health Services Department website.

Water

Public Swimming Pool/Spa Application(PDF)

Water Hauling Certificate Application(PDF)

Water Supply Certificate Application(PDF)

Water Well Driller Application(PDF)

Water Well Permit Application(PDF)

Waste

Medical Waste Home Generated Sharps Consolidation Application(PDF)

Medical Waste Generator Health Permit Application(PDF)

Annual Health Permit for Pumper Vehicles and Septic Systems(PDF)

Septic System Application(PDF)

Septic System Exemption(PDF)

Septic System Certification Form(PDF)

Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Annual Permit(PDF)

Certification Application for Recycling Centers & Processors(PDF)

Solid Waste Environmental Health Permit Application(PDF)

LEA Solid Waste Facility Permit Application(PDF)

LEA Standardized Permit Application(PDF)

LEA Registration Permit Application(PDF)

LEA Notification Application(PDF)

Consumer Protection

Body Artist Practitioner Registration Application(PDF)

Body Art Temporary Event Sponsor Application(PDF)

Motel/Hotel Application Form(PDF)

Massage Establishment Permit Forms(PDF)

Barbering, Cosmetology (including manicuring and esthetician) Establishment Permit Forms(PDF)

Film Permit

A valid Kern County Commercial Film Permit is required for ALL PROJECTS filming within the county boundaries—including those taking place on federal, state, civic, special district or private properties. Additional permits or approvals may be required depending upon the specific location and activity. For information regarding all the permits that may be required, visit the Film Commission Permits page.

Fire Permits

Food Permits

Any person conducting business or activity listed in Kern County Code of Ordinance 8.04 Environmental Health Permits and Service Fees within the geographic area under the jurisdiction of the Director of Public Health Services must apply for all applicable permits.

For more information on business activities requiring an environmental health permit visit the Kern County Public Health Services Department website.

Food Establishment Permit(PDF)

Mobile Food Facilities Plan Review(PDF)

Mobile Food Application Part 1(PDF)

Mobile Food Application Part 2(PDF)

Community Event Application(PDF)

Temporary Food Facility(PDF)

Certified Farmer's Market Application(PDF)

Do you need to obtain an alcoholic beverage license for your business? If so, visit the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) website for more information.

ABC License Application Requirements

ABC License Application Forms

Additional Resources

CalGold
This website assists you in finding appropriate permit information for your business. It also provides contact information for the various agencies that administer & issue these permits.

Kern County Code of Ordinances
Kern County provides an online version of its Code of Ordinances through Municode. This version is regularly updated for citizens to easily stay informed with current legislation.