Auxiliary Dwelling Unit Permit Info Santa Barbara
Changes In Auxiliary Dwelling Unit Permit Process
Earlier this year, we sent our client’s information about changes made to the Auxillary Dwelling Unit permit process. This was based on new legislation passed by the California legislature and signed by Gov. Brown. The impact of the bill was State-wide, including Santa Barbara.
In a nutshell, the new legislation makes it much easier for home owners to convert or build additional housing units on their property. Often called granny flats, garage conversions or backyard cottages, these projects offer more affordable housing options as well as potential income sources to home owners.
A Short Summary From The State of CA
The California legislature found and declared that, among other things, allowing auxiliary dwelling units (ADUs) in single family and multifamily zones provides additional rental housing and are an essential component in addressing housing needs in California. Over the years, ADU law has been revised to improve its effectiveness such as recent changes in 2003 to require ministerial approval. In 2017, changes to ADU laws will further reduce barriers, better streamline approval and expand capacity to accommodate the development of ADUs. Click here to read the entire article.
ADU Permit Process – Santa Barbara
The new State laws allow some modification to zoning approval by cities throughout California. The City of Santa Barbara has been working on how they would like to see the changes in the ADUs approval process implemented in our city.
Below is a video by the Santa Barbara Group’s Joe Parker discussing the pros and cons as well as the City of Santa Barbara’s most recent attempt to modify the auxiliary dwelling unit permit process for those wishing to add an auxiliary dwelling unit on their property.
If you have additional questions, Santa Barbara Group members, Joe Parker and Garrett McCaw, are closing following the City’s response to the AUD process. Though they can not provide legal advice, Joe & Garrett will give you lots of valuable information and resources. It is no wonder so many people in Santa Barbara turn to Joe and Garrett… they are consummate pros who care about their clients.
linda malone said:
Once the ADU Permit is finalized where would I look to be able to rent one of the units and eventually relocate to sunny California.
Please keep me in the loop. Anxious to hear if the city will approve the permit.
Gene Urban said:
Hi Linda. The homeowner submits the application to the City of Santa Barbara. Once approved, the person can buildout their remodel. We do not keep track of all the building permits. I am not sure, but the City may publish those permits and you could contact the homeowner to see if they are planning on renting or you could check out CraigsList as they are a good place to find rentals. Many landlords prefer to work directing with their tenants. Hope this information helps.