Adaptive Reuse Projects – New Rules Coming Soon

On October 21, 2025, the Santa Barbara City Council adopted a new inland zoning ordinance section― to support and incentivize adaptive reuse projects that convert existing, nonresidential buildings to housing.  

Adaptive reuse is a key strategy in the City’s 2023-2031 Housing Element helping to create healthy, safe, and energy-efficient housing that meets community needs within existing resources. 

The new ordinance takes effect on November 20, 2025. 

Learn more and read the full ordinance on the Adaptive Reuse webpage.