ADU Construction, Design, and Permitting in Santa Barbara

We can handle all facets of your ADU from concept to completion. 

Types of ADUs in Santa Barbara County, CA

1. Detached ADU

A fully separate structure built on the same lot as the main home. Detached ADUs provide maximum privacy and independence, ideal for guest housing, rentals, or multi-generational family use.

2. Attached ADU

This ADU is directly attached to the main residence, typically sharing at least one wall with the primary home. Attached ADUs offer convenience and may allow homeowners to leverage existing utilities and infrastructure, making them a cost-effective solution.

3. Garage Conversion ADU

An existing garage is converted into a living space. ADU garage conversions in Santa Barbara are especially popular as they repurpose existing structures, saving on construction costs and maintaining the existing footprint on the property.

4. Above-Garage ADU

A unit constructed above an existing or newly built garage. This option allows for efficient use of vertical space, creating an ADU with a unique view and added privacy, all while maintaining yard space.

5. Basement Conversion ADU

This ADU repurposes an underutilized basement into a fully functional living area. Basement conversions maximize space without expanding the building’s footprint, which is an excellent choice for properties with substantial basements.

6. Interior Conversion ADU (Junior ADU or JADU)

Junior ADUs, or JADUs, convert an existing area within the main house—such as a large bedroom or another living space—into a separate dwelling unit with its own entrance. These compact units often use a shared bathroom and kitchen setup, making them cost-effective and space-efficient.

7. Modular or Prefabricated ADU

These ADUs are built offsite and then transported and installed on the property. Modular and prefabricated units often reduce construction time and cost, providing a streamlined solution for homeowners seeking a faster and often more affordable ADU option. Prefab modular ADUs often don’t work in Santa Barbara due to strict design standards, challenging terrain that complicates transport, and site-specific foundation needs. Additionally, prefab units may struggle to meet local codes, making custom site-built ADUs a better fit.

Benefits of ADUs in Santa Barbara County

  1. Increased Property Value - ADUs can significantly boost property value by adding versatile, functional square footage. This added value is attractive for homeowners looking to sell as buyers increasingly seek multi-use properties.

  2. Additional Income Stream - ADUs offer the potential for rental income, whether for long-term tenants or short-term vacation rentals. This extra revenue can help offset mortgage costs or fund other investments.

  3. Multi-Generational Living Solutions - ADUs are ideal for multi-generational families, allowing older family members, adult children, or relatives to live nearby while maintaining their independence. This setup fosters family closeness and provides mutual support.

  4. Affordable Housing Options - Santa Barbara faces a housing shortage, and ADUs offer more affordable, accessible housing options within existing neighborhoods. They help meet community demand while preserving neighborhood character.

  5. Flexible Living Space - ADUs can serve various needs over time, such as a home office, guest suite, or creative studio. Their adaptability makes them a smart long-term investment for evolving lifestyles.

  6. Aging in Place - ADUs allow homeowners to downsize without moving, providing a suitable space for themselves while potentially renting out the main house. This helps aging residents stay in their community comfortably.

  7. Eco-Friendly Housing - ADUs use fewer materials and land compared to new home construction, often requiring less energy to build and maintain, making them an eco-conscious housing choice.

    ADUs in Santa Barbara provide valuable, flexible housing solutions that enhance property value, support family needs, and align with the area’s sustainability goals.

  • California Senate Bill 9 (SB 9) - SB 9 simplifies the approval process for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) across California, including Santa Barbara. It allows for easier property splits and additional ADU construction, making it more feasible for homeowners to develop ADUs.

  • ADU Size Limits - In Santa Barbara County, detached ADUs can be up to 1,200 square feet, while attached ADUs are capped at 50% of the primary home’s size, or up to 1,200 square feet.

  • Lot Size Requirements - ADUs are permitted on lots with existing single-family or multi-family homes, with no minimum lot size requirements, per state regulations.

  • Parking Requirements - Generally, ADUs require one additional parking space, but exemptions apply if the ADU is near public transit, within an existing structure, or in a historic district.

  • Setback Requirements - Santa Barbara regulations typically require a 4-foot setback from side and rear property lines for new ADUs, offering more flexibility than standard structures.

  • Owner Occupancy - As of recent changes, owner occupancy is not required for ADUs in Santa Barbara until at least 2025, making it easier to rent out ADUs.

  • Permitting and Compliance Process - Permits are required for ADU construction in Santa Barbara. The process includes site plan reviews, adherence to building codes, and local design guidelines, particularly in historic or coastal zones.

  • Design and Aesthetic Standards - Santa Barbara often requires ADUs to blend with neighborhood aesthetics, particularly in coastal and historic districts. Review boards may assess designs for neighborhood harmony.

  • Utilities and Infrastructure - New ADUs may need separate utility connections, depending on the site and existing infrastructure. Certain areas also require compliance with water and energy efficiency standards.

  • Impact Fees - Impact fees are generally waived for ADUs under 750 square feet. Larger ADUs may have reduced or standard impact fees, depending on location and size.

  • Environmental Complianc- ADUs must meet local environmental standards, including energy efficiency and waste disposal guidelines, especially in ecologically sensitive areas.

These Santa Barbara County ADU regulations support streamlined construction and compliance for homeowners while aligning with state guidelines and local community standards

ADU Regulations and Permitting in
Santa Barbara County, CA

Who is Allowed to Live in the ADU?

  • Family Members: Ideal for multi-generational families, allowing grandparents, adult children, or relatives to live nearby while maintaining independence.

  • Long-term Tenants: ADUs can be rented out to individuals or families, providing affordable housing options and generating rental income for homeowners.

  • Short-term Guests: Some ADUs may be used for short-term rentals (e.g., Airbnb), although local regulations and neighborhood restrictions do apply. Always check local guidelines if planning to use the ADU for short-term stays.

  • Primary Residence: In cases where the homeowner prefers, they may choose to live in the ADU and rent out the main home, especially if the ADU suits their lifestyle better.

Santa Barbara County regulations provide flexibility, allowing homeowners to use ADUs to meet personal or rental needs, enhancing the property’s versatility.

Kellow Construction’s Design Build model construction company is unique.  We can handle all your plans, design, and permitting in-house for your ADU.  These costs typically run 8%-12% of the construction budget.  We also are happy to work with clients who are working with architects and designers outside of our company.  Most of our clients see the benefits and cost savings of having us handle everything in-house, but that being said, we do play well with others!

Building an ADU in Santa Barbara County is a  detailed and multi-step process that requires:

  • Through planning

  • Compliance with local laws

  • Careful coordination of resources

It is important to navigate through various stages of building an ADU:

  • Researching local regulations

  • Obtaining approvals

  • Meeting building requirements

  • Selecting the right contractor

Once completed, an ADU can add value to your property, provide additional living space or serve as a rental unit. To ensure the success of your completion of an ADU, you must:

  • Take your time

  • Do thorough research

  • Consult with professionals

Kellow Construction is here to handle everything involved in building your ADU in Santa Barbara—from the initial plans and designs to getting permits—all within its company. 

Are You Excited to Start Your ADU Project?

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Gail McAdams

I first used Kellow construction or the "Dream Team" which I call them to help me on a few contracting items that I needed to get done at my office building In Santa Barbara. From the very beginning Kiel Kellow, the owner, was on time, reliable, professional, and knowledgeable. I was given a written estimate which we all can appreciate and which he adhered to in the final process! Needless to say my first experience was wonderful.

Caleigh Hernandez

It has been a pleasure working with Kiel and the Kellow Construction team on our most recent remodel. We have a craftsman built in the 1920s that we were looking to update, while still maintaining its character and the original elements of the house we loved so much. Kiel and Mike totally understood our vision and helped bring our dream into a reality. They went above and beyond on our project, and we could not be more pleased.

Camille Kurreck

Kellow Construction is a great local business and the team did wonderful work on our home! Kiel, Jason, and Meredith were easy to work with ,and they moved our project along efficiently. Renovations are stressful, and everyone was communicative and patient during the whole process. We are so happy with the end result!

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Get extra space without the hassle of relocating. Kellow Construction has dedicated services and a team of experienced construction professionals to help you get all kinds of ADUs in Santa Barbara County.