ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 27, 2026 AGENDA CATEGORY: Reports TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Phillip Burns, Development Services Director
DATE: May 1, 2026
SUBJECT: Presentation of Chapter 17.74 (Zoning) involving the Short-Term Rental Ordinance
The presentation will summarize the operating zoning regulations, the revenue and permit fee structure and its enforcement.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends receive and file the report.
BACKGROUND:
At the February 12, 2026 Housing and Community Development Committee meeting, the City Attorney’s Office presented the draft ordinance and was directed by the Committee to bring said ordinance to the full City Council for review and approval. On May 7, 2 026, the Planning Commission recommended the City Council adopt Chapter 17.74 to Title 17 (Zoning) of the Bakersfield Municipal Code (BMC), which enacts the regulations for Short Term Rentals (STR).
FISCAL IMPACT:
Cost recovery will be attained by requiring Short-Term Rental operators obtain a permit to operate, as well as the Transient Lodging Tax (“TLT” more commonly referred to as “TOT”) , along with substantial accompanying permitting fees, such as a business tax certificate and inspection fees. The impact to the City General Fund will be a net gain, in the estimates of $1,000,000 per year or more as short term rental inventory expands throughout the city.
COUNCIL GOAL:
Innovative and Efficient City Government
Safety and Resilience
ATTACHMENTS:
None