Single Family Streamlining Project
An informational webinar was held on Wednesday, May 20, to review the upcoming zoning ordinance amendments related to this project. If you were unable to attend, you can watch the recorded session here.
Single Family Design Board Process Updates and Title 30 Zoning Amendments Take Effect May 28, 2026
View the adopted ordinance amendments and updated guidelines here:
Title 30 Zoning Ordinance Amendments
Summary Table of Ordinance Amendments
Updated Single Family Design Board Guidelines
Project Overview
In response to community feedback, State law, and direction from City Council, the Single Family Streamlining Project streamlines and simplifies the process for approving single-family residential projects while maintaining Santa Barbara’s tradition of quality architecture and a desirable residential environment. This project amends to the Single Family Design Board (SFDB) ordinance and design guidelines, along with the Zoning Ordinance to provide more flexibility for homeowners to improve their properties. This project was done in response to years of policy analysis and the 2020 Novak Report, which recommended significant changes to the City's SFDB program. The project reduces the number of project types subject to SFDB review, expands administrative approvals of minor projects, and simplifies the application process.