Kern County outlines new oil and gas permit process with strict annual cap

Kern County's Planning Commission meeting on June 12, 2025, spotlighted the county's robust permitting process, revealing that a staggering 11,570 permits have been issued over the past five years. This impressive figure underscores the county's commitment to managing oil and gas activities, with a significant $157 million collected in mitigation funding aimed at environmental protection.

The meeting detailed two primary types of permits: the oil and gas conformity review and the minor activity review. The oil and gas conformity review is essential for new drilling operations, while minor activity reviews apply to less intensive activities, such as reworks. The process is designed to be efficient, with a seven-day review period for initial applications. If issues arise, applicants receive a compliance memo outlining necessary corrections, followed by a streamlined three-day review for resubmissions.

A key highlight of the meeting was the introduction of a cap on oil and gas conformity reviews, limiting the number of permits to 697 annually. This cap is non-transferable, meaning unused permits do not roll over into the next year, ensuring that the environmental impact is closely monitored and managed.

The commission also emphasized the importance of a fully online permitting system, which has facilitated the issuance of over 11,000 permits. This system aims to streamline the process, making it more accessible and efficient for operators.

In addition to the permitting discussions, the meeting touched on the ongoing legal background surrounding the county's permitting practices, highlighting the need for compliance with previous court rulings. The commission is currently addressing three specific areas to ensure adherence to legal standards.

Overall, the meeting reinforced Kern County's proactive approach to oil and gas regulation, balancing economic activity with environmental stewardship. As the county moves forward, the focus remains on maintaining an efficient permitting process while safeguarding local resources.