CALL TO ACTION: Property Rights in Santa Barbara

Recent actions by the Santa Barbara City Council may significantly affect property owners throughout the city.

By a 4–3 vote, the Council approved a rental freeze effective February 26, 2026, retroactive to December 16, 2025. This measure temporarily prohibits rent increases during the freeze period.

The Council has also proposed a rent cap set at 60% of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), and the City Finance Committee is evaluating two additional measures:

An increase of up to ten times the current transfer tax on both commercial and residential property transactions (commonly referred to as a “mansion tax” proposal).

These items are under review, and their outcomes could have lasting effects on housing investment, operations, and local economic conditions.

The Santa Barbara Rental Property Association (SBRPA) is committed to advocating for sound housing policy, fair property rights, and a balanced approach to regulation that benefits all community members — tenants and housing providers alike.

To assist with ongoing legal and policy advocacy, you may contribute to the SBRPA Legal Action Fund.

100% of your contribution will be directed to legal expenses associated with this effort. Suggested donation: $250 or more.

Contributions to the SBRPA Legal Action Fund are not tax-deductible as charitable donations but may qualify as business expenses. Please consult your tax advisor.