Bakersfield Photography Permits & Noise Exemptions
In Bakersfield, California, photographers and event organizers must follow city rules for on-location photography, filming and temporary noise exemptions on public property. This guide covers when a permit is required, which city office issues approvals, how to request a temporary noise exemption, and the practical steps to avoid citations. It focuses on official city rules and application pathways so you can plan shoots, apply for variances, and respond to complaints with the correct forms and contacts.
When a photography or filming permit is required
Permits are typically required for commercial photography, filming, use of city parks or streets, crew parking, or any activity that restricts public access. Private, small-scale portrait sessions on a sidewalk or nonregulated park area often do not require a permit, but confirm with the managing department before shooting on city-owned property.
- Check whether the location is city property and if the activity is commercial or uses special equipment.
- Reserve parks, streets, or public facilities in advance as required by the permitting office.
- Contact the Parks, Recreation & Arts or Planning office for site-specific rules and availability.
Noise exemptions and temporary variances
Temporary noise exemptions or variances may be available for permitted events, film shoots, or construction with prior approval. Exemptions are limited in time and location and often require conditions to mitigate community impact. The city noise rules are set out in the municipal code and administered by enforcement staff; see the municipal code for the controlling provisions and definitions municipal code[1].
- Submit a formal variance or special event request when amplified sound or extended hours are planned.
- Provide a noise management plan, schedule, and contact person for complaints.
- Comply with any required mitigation measures such as sound barriers or restricted hours.
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement of noise and permit rules is carried out by city enforcement divisions, including the Police Department for noise complaints and the department that issues permits (Parks, Planning or Special Events) for permit compliance. Specific fine amounts and penalty schedules are provided in the municipal code or the enforcement policies of the issuing department.
- Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page; consult the municipal code and enforcement division for current schedules.[1]
- Escalation: first offence, repeat and continuing violations are handled per code; ranges or multipliers are not specified on the cited page.
- Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, revocation of permits, seizure of equipment, or court action are possible under city authority.
- Enforcer and complaint path: call the Police non-emergency line or the permitting office to report violations; see Help and Support / Resources below for direct contacts.
- Appeals and review: appeal routes are set by the issuing department or municipal code; specific time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page and must be confirmed with the issuing office.
- Defences and discretion: permitted activities under an approved variance or reasonable excuse may be accepted; departments have discretionary authority to condition or deny requests.
Applications & Forms
Apply for film or special event permits using the city application for special events or filming; the official permit application and instructions are published by the city permitting office. Example application and requirements for special events and film shoots are available from the city permitting page Special Event Permit Application[2]. If no dedicated form is required for small activities the permitting page will note that.
- Form name: Special Event / Filming Permit Application (see city form link). Fees: listed on the application or fee schedule; if not listed, fee amounts are not specified on the cited page.
- Payment: pay fees as directed on the application (online, mail, or in-person) where specified by the city.
- Deadlines: submit applications well before the event; timing depends on scope and is stated on the permit page or by staff.
How-To
- Determine if your shoot is commercial, uses city property, or requires road/park closure.
- Contact the appropriate city office (Parks, Planning, or Special Events) to request the application and checklist.
- Complete the Special Event / Filming Permit Application, attach the noise plan and insurance certificate if required.
- Submit the application and pay any fees; provide proof of notifications to neighbors if required.
- Receive written permit or variance and carry a copy on site; comply with conditions and respond to any complaints.
FAQ
- Do I need a permit for a portrait session on a Bakersfield sidewalk?
- Usually not for small, noncommercial portrait sessions, but confirm with the department that manages the location before shooting.
- How do I request a temporary noise exemption for a film shoot?
- Apply for a variance or include the request on your special event/filming permit application and submit the required mitigation plan to the permitting office.
- Who enforces noise complaints in Bakersfield?
- The Police Department responds to noise complaints and the permitting office enforces permit conditions for events on city property.
Key Takeaways
- Confirm property ownership and permit needs before scheduling a shoot.
- Apply early and include a clear noise management plan for amplified sound.
- Keep permit documents on site and provide a local contact for complaints.
Help and Support / Resources
- City of Bakersfield Planning & Building
- Parks, Recreation & Arts Department
- Bakersfield Police Department - non-emergency
- Bakersfield Municipal Code (Municode)