Santa Barbara Wants More Housing. At What Cost?

By Caroline Wang

Santa Barbara has faced a housing shortage for decades. Under California’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA), the city must plan for 8,001 new homes over the next decade. But as Santa Barbara grows, there’s another question to consider: what will that growth mean for the local environment? 

In August this year, the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the housing plan was approved for publication by the Santa Barbara City Council. This lengthy report covers 10 broad areas of environmental concern and possible alternatives the housing plan can take. 

One truth is made clear: there will be environmental impact from this housing plan. More housing means more construction—and more construction means more air pollution, noise, habitat disturbance, and greenhouse gas emissions. Accommodating thousands of new residents also means increased transportation needs and the displacement of natural habitats. 

The city plans to mitigate these risks on a project-by-project basis. Here are some examples they gave. 

Large construction projects are required to use Tier 3 or newer diesel construction equipment to reduce air pollution. These machines produce substantially fewer toxic emissions, particularly diesel particulate matter (DPM), a toxic air contaminant that can harm nearby residents and wildlife. The EIR also concludes that increased vehicle use associated with new housing would not result in a significant long-term air-quality impact.

Oak woodland habitats and Santa Barbara’s creeks—Mission Creek, Sycamore Creek, and Arroyo Burro Creek—provide important wildlife corridors. To help prevent disturbance, the EIR proposes creek setbacks, habitat protections, and pre-construction bird surveys.

Noise is another significant concern. Heavy machinery and vibration can disturb residents, disrupt wildlife cycles and functions, and potentially affect older local buildings. To mitigate this, the EIR proposes a vibration control plan that includes building surveys, vibration monitoring, and alternative construction methods.

In terms of global warming, the EIR concludes that the Housing Plan’s contribution to greenhouse gas emissions would not be cumulatively considerable, citing consistency with the city’s Climate Action Plan and future project-level review. 

So, will Santa Barbara be able to build the housing it needs without causing significant environmental damage?

The EIR concludes yes—if the rules are followed and environmental impacts are kept in mind during the development of each housing area.

The environment is a large part of what makes Santa Barbara such a beautiful city to live in. Let’s protect it while making sure more people can call it home, too.

Sources & Reporting:

City of Santa Barbara, Housing Plan Program EIR. (2026). https://santabarbaraca.gov/HousingEIR