The Montecito Planning Commission is considering amending the local land use regulations that could reshape how housing is built and approved. The Planning Commission, on October 15, 2025, acknowledged the housing crisis and the need for improved supply.
The proposed amendments include changes that could directly affect Montecito. They have been categorized into the following categories:
- Housing accommodation amendments to revise development standards to achieve allowed densities.
- Process improvement amendments to simplify the process of permit review without altering the outcomes.
These amendments are part of a broader effort to help the region meet its housing goals as mandated by the state under the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) program.
Revisions to Development Standards
- For multi-unit residential zones (DR and PRD) permitting 20 units per acre or more, which are outside Montecito but within the coastal zone, development standards are adjusted to accommodate higher densities. Building height is proposed to be increased to 45 feet, from the existing 35 feet. The 30% cap on site coverage is also expected to be removed.
- Standards for commercial zones have been updated to facilitate mixed-use housing. In the neighborhood commercial zone, which includes Montecito Village, the residential density metric is changed to 20 units per acre. The minimum front setback is also lowered to 10 feet from 20 feet.
- The allowable proportion of residential use in mixed-use projects would increase from 50% to 75% of the total gross floor area.
- The requirement for open space changed from 40% of the net site area for lower densities to a minimum amount per unit. For areas allowing 20 units per acre or more, the requirement is 60 square feet per unit, with at least 25% provided as common open space.
Changes to Development Oversight
Another major part of the amendments involves streamlining development oversight. This can be done by downshifting the decision-making authority from the Planning Commission or Zoning Administrator to the Director.
This was partially driven by the state’s view that the review process and appeals can act as a barrier that slows down approvals.
Exceptions
The staff proposed a new exception to design review for structures less than 500 square feet behind other buildings or on the back half of the lot.
The commissioner voted to eliminate the local appeal process for accessory dwelling units in the coastal zone. This aligns with inland policy.
The next hearing for the Montecito Planning Commission is scheduled for November 19, 2025.
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There goes the neighborhood including more traffic for all. Montecito may be able to use their wealth to stave off this destructive density, unlike middle and lower income areas that have been so adversely affected.
Wealth won’t save Montecito from its obligations. Other cities, like Palo Alto, Woodside, Los Altos Hills, etc., which are all wealthy, have tried to circumvent the new housing requirements and lost. California has a severe housing crisis, and every city and town thinks that they’re special and should be exempt. NIMBYism is the number 1 cause of the housing shortage. Change is coming, and you can choose to work to accept & shape that change or fight it tooth & nail and eventually get the worst outcomes.
Not everyone that wants to live in California can. Simple truth. Especially in the coastal areas We can’t keep enabling this by ruining our beautiful cities.