City Of Santa Barbara Rent Control Update 1/22/26

On December 16 the Santa Barbara City Council reviewed a work plan for the development of a Rent Stabilization Ordinance and Program, and provided feedback to guide further research and ordinance development. Following the December 16 meeting, the Council met on January 13 and voted 4-3 to pass a temporary rent increase moratorium (also known as a rent freeze) while the City develops the Rent Stabilization Ordinance and Program. The Chamber continues to advocate against rent control policies due to concerns they will further limit our housing supply, exacerbating the housing crisis.