Short-Term Rental Ordinance

The City of Santa Barbara currently regulates STRs as hotels and they are allowed in zones where hotels are allowed but are prohibited in single-unit and two-unit residential zones.  This means they are not allowed in the R-S and R-2 zones under Title 30 (Inland) or in the A, E, R-1, and R-2 zones under Title 28 (Coastal). Most other zones allow hotels, and therefore STRs, but under certain conditions. Current regulations, do not follow a single, unified permit path for STRs and, since they are considered a nonresidential use, applicants must go through a change-in-use process. 

A STR ordinance is needed to provide additional regulations with a clear permit path for these uses and enforcement mechanisms. Based on feedback from City Council and Planning Commission in 2025 and 2026, staff drafted Zoning Ordinance amendments to define regulations for establishment of STRs in appropriate locations (generally areas zoned for hotels, commercial uses, and multi-residential areas) as well as for homeshares. Prior draft ordinances are included in the staff reports listed below.  Please refer to the interactive map below to see how this program may include your property. 

The proposed final draft ordinances to be considered on October 6, 2026 by City Council can be found here:  Title 30 (Inland) and Title 28 (Coastal).   

The Zoning Ordinance amendments were considered by the Planning Commission on March 5, 2026 and the City Council Ordinance Committee on April 14 and June   9, 2026.  The amendments are scheduled to be introduced by City Council on October 6. Following this action, the City’s ordinances will be submitted to the California Coastal Commission. See the Timeline below for more information and subscribe with your email to receive project updates.  Contact staff if you are interested in learning more or would like a group presentation.