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Santa Barbara County, CA Short-Term Rentals: Short-Term Rental Parking Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified June 2026

Key Facts

Code
LUDC Ch. 35.36 (Parking and Loading Standards)
Typical Requirement
2 spaces for one- and two-family dwellings
Location
Must be on the lot where the homestay is located
On-Street Parking
Cannot be used to satisfy the requirement
Applies
Inland regulated area (Coastal Zone not yet regulated)

Summary

Homestays in unincorporated Santa Barbara County must provide parking on the lot in compliance with County Parking and Loading Standards (LUDC Chapter 35.36). Generally two spaces are required for one- and two-family dwellings, and on-street parking cannot satisfy the requirement.

City-specific rules exist: Santa Maria has its own short-term rental parking rules rules that differ from Santa Barbara County's county-level regulations. If you live in Santa Maria, check the city-specific page instead.

Parking is required on the lot on which the homestay is located in compliance with County Parking and Loading Standards (LUDC Chapter 35.36). Generally, two parking spaces are required for one-family and two-family dwelling in residential zones. On-street parking cannot be used to satisfy parking requirements.

Full Breakdown

Parking for homestays in unincorporated Santa Barbara County is governed by the County's Parking and Loading Standards. 36). Generally, two parking spaces are required for one-family and two-family dwelling in residential zones. ' Because a homestay operates within an existing residence, the applicable requirement is the standard residential parking demand for that dwelling type rather than a separate commercial lodging standard. The key restriction is that the required spaces must be physically on the lot - guests and operators cannot rely on neighborhood street parking to meet the County's standard, a provision aimed at protecting residential streets from overflow.

These standards apply in the inland area where homestays are regulated; the Coastal Zone is not currently regulated for short-term rentals. California state law does not set STR parking minimums, so this is a County land-use requirement under the LUDC.

Violations & Fines

A homestay that fails to provide the required on-lot parking, or that relies on on-street parking, does not meet LUDC Chapter 35.36 standards and is subject to County Planning & Development enforcement of the homestay permit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many parking spaces does a Santa Barbara County homestay need?
Parking must be provided on the lot in compliance with LUDC Chapter 35.36. Generally two spaces are required for one-family and two-family dwellings in residential zones.
Can guests park on the street?
No. On-street parking cannot be used to satisfy the County's parking requirement. The required spaces must be on the lot on which the homestay is located.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Santa Barbara County

All Santa Barbara County rules

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