Kern County Assessor Property Search
Finding accurate Kern County property records is essential whether you’re buying property, verifying ownership, or reviewing property tax records. Kern County is one of California’s largest counties, covering urban cities like Bakersfield as well as vast agricultural and oil-producing regions. This guide shows you how to use the official Kern County Assessor property search, perform an APN lookup, access GIS parcel maps, and understand your assessed value under Proposition 13.
How to Search Property Records in Kern County
The Kern County Assessor property search allows you to access parcel details, ownership records, assessed values, and tax-related information using official tools.
- Visit the official website: Kern County Assessor
- Navigate to property search or parcel lookup
- Select search method:
- APN (most accurate)
- Address
- Owner name
- Enter your details correctly
- Select the correct property
- View complete property record
Kern County Parcel Number (APN) Lookup
The Assessor Parcel Number (APN) is the most reliable way to identify property in Kern County.
Steps to Find APN
- Open the assessor search tool
- Search by address or owner name
- Select property
- Locate APN in record
- Used for tax payments
- Required for legal documents
- Ensures accurate property identification
Kern County Property Tax Records
Kern County property taxes are governed by Proposition 13, meaning your assessed value is based on the purchase price and increases by a maximum of 2% annually unless ownership changes.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Assessed Value | Used to calculate taxes |
| Market Value | Estimated current value |
| Base Year Value | Purchase value |
| Taxable Value | After exemptions |
How to Pay Kern County Property Taxes
- Visit: Tax Portal
- Search using APN or bill number
- Verify property details
- Complete payment
- Save receipt
Kern County GIS Map Property Search
The GIS parcel map helps you visually explore property data.
- Parcel boundaries
- Zoning information
- Land use data
- Aerial imagery
Steps to Use GIS Map
- Open GIS: Kern GIS
- Search property
- Select parcel
- Enable layers
How to Apply for Homeowner’s Exemption in Kern County
This exemption reduces your assessed value and lowers property taxes.
Apply for Homeowner’s Exemption
How to Appeal Your Kern County Property Assessment
If your assessed value exceeds market value, you can file an appeal.
- Review assessment
- Compare sales data
- Submit appeal
- Attend hearing
Kern County Assessor Office Phone Number and Address
| Office | Kern County Assessor-Recorder |
| Address | 1115 Truxtun Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93301 |
| Phone | (661) 868-1000 |
Official Resources
| Resource | Purpose | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Assessor | Property records | Visit |
| Tax Portal | Pay taxes | Visit |
| GIS Map | Parcel viewer | Visit |
| Homeowner Exemption | Tax relief | Visit |
| Prop 13 | Tax rules | Visit |
Frequently Asked Questions (Kern County Assessor Property Search)
How do I search Kern County property records?
You can search using the official Assessor website by APN, address, or owner name. APN gives the most accurate result.
How do I find my Kern County APN?
Your APN is listed on your tax bill or available through the property search tool.
How do I pay Kern County property taxes online?
Use the official tax portal, enter APN or bill number, verify details, and complete payment.
Why are property taxes different for similar homes?
Due to Proposition 13, taxes are based on purchase value, not current market value.
How do I use Kern County GIS map?
Open GIS tool, search your parcel, and explore zoning, boundaries, and aerial view.