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Taxes›California›Kern County›Bakersfield

Bakersfield
short-term rental taxes.

Data date: Jun 2026

Start with the recorded local taxes and permit overview for Bakersfield, California. Check the current requirements for your exact address.

What you need to do in Bakersfield

Checked against the source
  1. To confirm
    Check that short-term rentals are allowed at your address

    The record has no finding on whether Bakersfield allows short-term rentals. Ask the planning or zoning office before you list.

  2. To confirm
    Check whether you need a license or permit

    The record does not say whether Bakersfield requires a short-term rental license. Ask the city or county licensing office.

  3. To do
    Collect and remit the 12% Bakersfield occupancy tax yourself

    The record says booking platforms do not collect it, so you add it to every booking, platform and direct, and pay it to the authority.

  4. To do
    File monthly returns

    The record does not state the due day; the tax office's calendar has it.

Verify each step with the authority before you file or apply. Source

Get a reminder before each monthly Bakersfield return is due

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What to know.

The published guide for Bakersfield lists 12% local occupancy tax. License or registration details are not available.

At a glance.

Local tax
12%
State tax
Local only
License
Not available
Local filing
You collect and remit
SourceSources & confidenceHow we researchReport a problem with this page

Tax details

Exemptions, penalties, filing information, and effective dates from the linked sources.

Bakersfield: Recorded exemptions

Per the official City of Bakersfield TOT Government Exemption Form: federal government employees (including military) on official business, and federal employees exempt by express provision of federal law or international treaty, are exempt; state and local government employees do not qualify. Contractor for a government agency is not exempt.

Bakersfield: Recorded remittance instructions

online via HdL portal (bakersfield.hdlgov.com) or mail to City Treasurer

Bakersfield: Recorded filing schedule

Filing frequency: Monthly.

Source for these notes: bakersfield.municipal.codes: code

Platform tax collection guidance for Bakersfield

Collection is shown separately for each booking channel. Direct-booking taxes are paid by the host.

PlatformStateLocal
AirbnbNoneYou collect and remit
VrboNoneYou collect and remit
Booking.comNoneYou collect and remit
DirectNoneYou collect and remit

Platform collects means the platform pays that tax. You collect and remit means you pay it. Collection details unavailable identifies a missing answer for that channel. Filing duties are listed separately.

Your next steps

  • Find permit information

    Permit requirements are not available in this guide. The linked authority provides application information.

  • Collection of the 12% local tax

    You collect and remit this tax using the linked filing instructions.

  • File your tax returns

    File monthly returns. The record does not state the due day; the tax office's calendar has it.

Sources & confidence

How we collect and check this information · Report a problem with this page

FigureValueSourceStatus
Bakersfield occupancy tax12%
Source
Source linked
California local lodging tax guidanceLocally administered
Source
Source linked
Licensing recordNot available
Source
Source linked
Official sources for the taxes and permit requirements shown above.

Bakersfield STR tax FAQ

Does Airbnb pay my Bakersfield occupancy taxes?

You collect and remit this tax for Airbnb and direct bookings.

Do I need a license to Airbnb in Bakersfield?

The licensing requirement for Bakersfield is not available. Check state and local license or registration rules before listing.

What happens if I don't file?

Penalties and interest depend on the tax and authority. Check the applicable rules and contact the authority about any missed filings or payments.

How often do I file?

File monthly returns. The record does not state the due day; the tax office's calendar has it.