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Bathroom remodel permits in Santa Barbara: exactly what you need in 2025

  • santanasb6
  • Nov 4
  • 2 min read

Author: Ray Guerrero | RG Painting & Construction Inc. | CSLB #931758

Phone: (805) 452-8406

Quick Answer: Most bathroom remodels in the City of Santa Barbara require a building permit when you change layout, move plumbing or electrical lines, add ventilation, or modify windows. Expect plan review, permit fees, and inspections at rough and final stages. Homes in El Pueblo Viejo or historic districts may also need Historic Landmarks Commission approval for exterior changes.


What Needs a Permit

You’ll need a building permit if your remodel includes:

  • Reconfiguring walls or changing the bathroom layout

  • Moving plumbing, electrical, or adding a fan/vent

  • Replacing a tub with a shower

  • Adding or enlarging windows or exterior vents

Minor cosmetic updates (paint, fixtures, tile) often don’t require one—verify through the City of Santa Barbara Building & Safety Division.

Step-by-Step Permit Process

  1. Define scope and jurisdiction: Confirm if your home lies within City limits or County of Santa Barbara (Mission Canyon, Hope Ranch, Montecito).

  2. Check design review: If you’re in El Pueblo Viejo or a landmark, window or exterior changes go through Historic Landmarks Commission.

  3. Prepare and submit plans: Apply via the Accela Citizen Access portal with layout and fixture plans.

  4. Plan check review: City staff verify compliance with local and state codes.

  5. Pay permit fees: Fees are based on project value and scope; see FY 2024–2025 Building & Safety Fee Schedule.

  6. Schedule inspections: Rough plumbing/electrical, waterproofing, then final approval.

Typical Permit Costs (2025)

The City of Santa Barbara Fee Schedule lists specific bathroom remodel categories.

  • Standard bathroom remodel: ~$450–$1,200 (total plan check + permit + inspections)

  • With structural or window work: ~$1,000–$2,500Fees change annually—always confirm the latest schedule before submitting.

Historic and Downtown Areas

If your property sits in El Pueblo Viejo, or is a Historic Landmark, any exterior-visible work (windows, vents, new exhausts) triggers HLC review. Interior-only bathroom updates typically require only a building permit.

How Long Approval Takes

Straightforward submittals (no design review) often clear within 2–4 weeks. Projects requiring Historic Landmarks Commission or plan corrections may take 6–10 weeks.

Local Homeowner Tips

  • Projects in Mesa, Riviera, San Roque, Samarkand, and Upper East fall under City jurisdiction.

  • Mission Canyon and Hope Ranch are County—apply through County Planning & Development.

  • Keep your approved plans and inspection card onsite; schedule an inspection every 180 days to keep the permit active.


FAQs

Do I need a permit to replace a bathtub with a shower? Yes—changing waterproofing, plumbing, or ventilation requires one.

Can I skip the permit for minor cosmetic work? Painting, re-tiling, or replacing faucets may be exempt; verify with the City’s “Work Exempt From Permit” guide.

Are bathroom windows reviewed by HLC? Only if visible from the exterior and located in El Pueblo Viejo or a Historic Landmark property.


Need Help?

As second-generation Santa Barbara contractors, RG Painting & Construction Inc. takes pride in delivering craftsmanship that rivals the most exclusive firms, without their inflated prices. Our family has been serving this community for decades, combining refined finishes with honest, local rates.


If you’re planning a remodel or navigating the permit process, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Call (805) 452-8406 for a free consultation or visit SantaBarbaraGeneralContractor.com to learn more.

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