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Fortune ADU

How to Get an ADU Permit in Santa Barbara

Why Build an ADU in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is one of California’s most desirable (and expensive) places to live. With rising home prices and limited rental availability, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) offer a smart and legal way to create affordable housing, accommodate family, or generate rental income. Whether you're building a backyard cottage, converting a garage, or adding a unit to your home, the City of Santa Barbara offers favorable policies that make the process easier than ever in 2025.

What Is an ADU?

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary residential unit located on the same parcel as a primary dwelling. Santa Barbara allows several types of ADUs:

  • Detached ADUs – separate structures in the yard

  • Attached ADUs – built as an extension of the main house

  • Garage Conversions – transforming a garage into livable space

  • Junior ADUs (JADUs) – efficiency units under 500 sq. ft. within the main home

Types of ADUs

Santa Barbara ADU Laws & Zoning Requirements (2025)

The City of Santa Barbara follows California's state ADU legislation (SB 9, AB 68, SB 13), with its own local nuances. Here's a breakdown:

 Requirement Standard
 Zoning Eligibility ADUs allowed in all residential zones (R-1, R-2, etc.)
Maximum ADU Size Up to 1,200 sq. ft. (detached), 850 sq. ft. (1 bed), 1,000 sq. ft. (2 beds)
Junior ADU SizeUp to 500 sq. ft.
 Height Limits Up to 16 ft. for detached; higher may be allowed in some zones
 Setbacks 4 ft. rear and side setbacks for detached ADUs
Parking RequirementsWaived if within ½ mile of transit, in a historic district, or for conversions
 Fire SprinklersNot required if main residence doesn't have them
 Owner OccupancyNo longer required for new ADUs built between 2020–2025

Step-by-Step: How to Get an ADU Permit in Santa Barbara

Step 1: Check Zoning & Eligibility

Start by verifying your property’s zoning and ADU eligibility using the Santa Barbara Zoning Information. Most single-family and multi-family lots qualify.

Questions to ask:

  • Is my property in a residential zone?

  • Is it in a coastal or historic zone?

  • Is there enough room for setbacks and access?

Step 2: Choose the Type of ADU

Decide what suits your property and goals best:

  • 🔨 Detached ADU – ideal for long-term rental or family

  • 🧱 Garage Conversion – lower cost, reuses existing structure

  • 🏠 Attached ADU – adds value and blends with the main home

  • 🛏️ Junior ADU – internal space under 500 sq. ft., low cost

3. Prepare Plans with a Licensed Designer

You’ll need to hire an architect, designer, or ADU specialist to create detailed plans that meet:

  • California Building Code (CBC)

  • Title 24 energy requirements

  • Fire safety & egress codes

  • Santa Barbara Municipal Code


Plans must include:

  • Site plan with setbacks

  • Floor plan and elevations

  • Structural calculations (if required)

  • Title 24 energy compliance forms

4. Submit Permit Application

Submit your complete ADU application package to:

📍 Santa Barbara Community Development Department
630 Garden Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
🌐 Or via the online permit portal at santabarbaraca.gov


You’ll need:

  • ADU application form

  • Full plan set (PDF or hard copy)

  • Stormwater control plan (if applicable)

  • Waste management and grading forms

  • Applicable permit fees

5. Wait for Plan Review (60 Days Max)

Under California law, cities must approve or deny a complete ADU permit application within 60 days. The City may request corrections during this period.

Key review areas:

  • Lot coverage and height compliance

  • Design standards

  • Fire access and parking

  • Utility connections

6. Pay Permit Fees

Permit fees vary based on size and scope:
 Fee Type Estimated Cost
Building Permit $1,500 – $4,000
Plan Check $1,000 – $2,000
School Fees (over 500 sq. ft.) ~$3.50 per sq. ft.
Sewer & Water Hookups $1,000 – $3,000 (varies)
Total Range$4,000 – $12,000+

7. Start Construction & Schedule Inspections

Once permits are issued:

  • Post your permit onsite

  • Schedule required city inspections

  • Follow the approved plans closely

  • Keep communication open with your contractor and city officials

8. Final Inspection & Certificate of Occupancy

After the final inspection is passed, the city will issue a Certificate of Occupancy. Your ADU is now legal, rentable, and fully usable.

Benefits of Building an ADU in Santa Barbara

✔️ Create rental income in a high-demand area
✔️ Support multigenerational living (elderly parents, adult kids)
✔️ Maximize underused property space
✔️ Boost property value without subdividing land
✔️ Use for remote work, guest housing, or short-term rentals (if compliant)

FAQ

How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Santa Barbara?

Most ADU permits are reviewed and processed within 60 days, per state law, assuming your application is complete.

Can I convert my garage into an ADU in Santa Barbara?

Yes. Garage conversions are allowed and often do not require parking replacements if you’re near transit or in a historic overlay zone.

Do I need to provide additional parking for my ADU?

Not necessarily. ADUs located within ½ mile of public transit or converted from existing structures are typically exempt from parking requirements.

Are impact fees required for ADUs in Santa Barbara?

No, if your ADU is under 750 sq. ft., it’s exempt from school and impact fees under California state law.

Can I build an ADU on a multi-family property?

Yes. You can add up to two detached ADUs per lot and may convert existing non-livable spaces like garages or basements.