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

Parking for homestays in unincorporated Santa Barbara County is governed by the County's Parking and Loading Standards. Per the Homestays FAQ: '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.' 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.