housing development guides and resources
We’ve developed a series of free guides to help homeowners and property owners in California understand some of the more confusing laws and ordinances. See below for our offerings on SB9, Average Unit Density, and Accessory Dwelling Units. SB9 and Accessory Dwelling units are statewide guidelines, and Average Unit Density is specific to the City of Santa Barbara. See below to download your free guide, or hit “Let’s Talk” to set up a time to meet with us to discuss your specific property. We also offer a Property Development Analysis Service, click here for more information.
SB9
SB9 is a bill that was created to help California’s housing crisis. It came into effect on January 1st, 2022, and has two main parts. The first part allows California homeowners of single-family homes to split their parcel into two pieces, as long as they’re of roughly equal size, and build a new residence on the new parcel. The second part allows homeowners to build a single-family home or duplex on the new parcel. It also allows homeowners to split their current single-family home into a duplex. This now allows a single-family zoned property that only had one home on it to have up to four homes on it.
Eligibility Map: SB9
Average Unit Density (AUD)
On July 30, 2013, the City Council adopted SBMC Chapter 28.20, the Average Unit-Size Density (AUD) Incentive Program. The AUD Program is intended to encourage smaller, more affordable housing units through the application of increased densities and development incentives in selected areas of the City.
AUD summary of Ordinance amendments effective Sept. 3, 2020
AUD Incentive Program Ordinance as of Sept. 3, 2020
AUD Incentive Program Common Questions
Eligibility Map: AUD
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)
An accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, is a small unit built on your property for living in. Sometimes called an “in-law unit”, they allow you to build an additional structure, either attached to your house or not, that can be used as guest space or rented out for extra income.
ADUs are permitted in most areas and are a great option for homeowners looking to add more housing to their property.
Pending, Permitted, and Constructed ADU Projects in Santa Barbara