learn about your property
DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL ANALYSIS (DPA)
$450
Figuring out what you’re allowed to do with your property can be confusing and overwhelming, especially in this time of rapid zoning changes and California state housing laws. We offer a DPA service to help you understand the property's development potential.
free guides
SB9
CA state-wide policy
split your lot and/or build up to 4 units - 2 residences and 2 ADUs - on your single-family zoned property
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)
CA state-wide policy
add a small extra living unit to rent on your property
AUD Multifamily
Santa Barbara city-wide policy
increase density with multifamily units in the city of Santa Barbara
news
After more than seven years, reconstruction has begun on the former Hawaiian Village apartment complex in Ventura, which was destroyed in the 2017 Thomas Fire. The new 52-unit project, now named Bella Vita, is expected to welcome residents by early 2027. The first of four buildings is anticipated to be completed by the end of this year. The complex aims to recapture its previous charm, offering beautiful views and modern amenities. The developers hope to attract former residents back to the community.
The Maulhardt-Stiles development represents an exciting step forward in addressing Ventura County’s housing needs while enhancing the Northeast Oxnard community. If approved and developed as envisioned, the project could bring significant economic and social benefits, providing housing opportunities and new amenities for residents.
When disaster strikes, rebuilding offers a chance to not just restore what was lost, but to create something better. In the wake of the devastating Pacific Palisades fire, which destroyed more than 5,500 homes, a heated debate has emerged: Should rebuilding efforts include more affordable housing, or should the affluent enclave remain exclusive?
The 2030 Challenge is not just an aspirational goal—it’s a necessary transformation for the future of our planet. Architects, builders, and policymakers must work together to create a built environment that is both resilient and regenerative.
A passel of recent California laws were supposed to supercharge the construction of desperately needed housing. According to YIMBY Law, they haven’t even come close
In Arbitrary Lines: How Zoning Broke the American City and How to Fix It, urban planner M. Nolan Gray takes a deep dive into the history of zoning, its consequences, and how we can create better cities by reforming or even eliminating it altogether.
events
March 28, 2025
Building a Stronger Ventura in a space where community voices shape the future! Whether you’re interested in development, permits, housing, or city planning, this is your hub for staying informed and getting involved. The goal is to keep the community connected with the latest projects, initiatives, and opportunities to engage with Community Development staff.
April 26 & 27, 2025
Over two days and nine inspiring films, discover the bold visions of renowned architects like Eileen Gray and R.M. Schindler, the groundbreaking artistry of Anselm Kiefer and Nam June Paik, the creative courage of women street artists and the timeless innovation of Man Ray’s cinematic masterpieces, all in a celebration of art, architecture and imagination.
Thursday, December 5, 2024
The housing crisis is complex and multifaceted, but together, we can make a difference. Attending the Santa Barbara Housing Conference is an opportunity to engage with the region’s thought leaders, contribute to ongoing discussions, and find ways to get involved in crafting solutions for our community.
By working together, we can bridge the affordability gap and move toward a future where Santa Barbara’s workforce has access to housing that’s both affordable and accessible. We look forward to seeing you there!
previous newsletters
As Los Angeles rebuilds after the fires and housing demand continues to rise, homeowners and developers are seeking innovative ways to create affordable, sustainable, and resilient living spaces.
For those passionate about the art and science of design, attending the Monterey Design Conference is an investment in professional growth, creativity, and inspiration. MDC is a rare opportunity to step outside the everyday demands of the profession, connect with others who share your passion, and return to your practice with renewed motivation and innovative ideas.
Santa Barbara’s housing crisis continues to push city planners, developers, and community members to ask one pressing question: where should we build? In a region where space is limited and housing costs soar, balancing the demand for more housing with the need to preserve Santa Barbara’s character is challenging. This article from the Montecito Journal dives into potential solutions, looking at how urban infill, zoning adjustments, and thoughtful development could address housing needs while respecting the environment and community identity.