NEW: Free and Expedited Heat Pump Water Heater Permitting Process

On January 15, 2025, the Community Development Department, in partnership with the Sustainability & Resilience Department and Santa Barbara Clean Energy (SBCE), deployed an expedited OnDemand permitting process and permit fee waiver for the replacement of an existing gas or electric resistance water heater with a heat pump water heater. Choosing electric options such as heat pump water heaters will make your home healthier, safer, smarter, and more comfortable.

Applicants are now able to apply online and instantly receive their building permit for free via email — no permit fees and no staff contact needed. This new OnDemand permit process is available for replacing water heaters in the same interior or existing enclosed exterior location to a heat pump water heater for single-unit residences and duplexes.

In addition, SBCE has also launched a rebate program  to assist with the cost of purchasing and installing heat pump water heaters as well as associated electrical work. More information can be found at SantaBarbaraCA.gov/HEAP.

Did you know that an OnDemand permit process is also available for:

Water Heater Replacement with Heat Pump Water Heater – New!
EV Charger Installation
Like-for-Like Reroofing
Water Heater Replacement
Electrical Panel Replacement
HVAC System Replacements
Roof Mounted Solar PV (10kW max) Optional Battery ESS (27kW max).
Battery Energy Storage (ESS) to existing Solar PV
Underground Gas Service
Underground Water Service (excluding permits with a water meter size change)

The OnDemand permits are available using your Accela Citizen Access (ACA) account. Information on how to set up an account is available on our Apply for a Permit webpage.

The Land Development Team thanks you for your help in reducing our environmental impact, and we hope that you enjoy our new online service enhancements.