Short-term rentals (STRs), often referred to as vacation rentals, in Santa Barbara County, California, are highly regulated and, in many areas, effectively illegal. The local government restricts these rentals predominantly to the coastal regions, where specific permits can be obtained. In much of the county, including residential zones, STRs are prohibited beyond certain exceptions. Properties that typically thrive as STRs include beachfront homes and vacation houses in coastal areas, with urban locations catering to both tourists and occasional business travelers, especially during peak vacation seasons. The market is primarily tourist-driven, with significant traffic from visitors exploring the area's natural beauty and cultural sites. Regulation falls under the Santa Barbara County Planning and Development Department, which establishes strict zoning and permit requirements for legal STR operations. For more detailed information about the regulations, you can visit the official government websites at Santa Barbara County Short-Term Rental Ordinance and City of Santa Barbara Short-Term Rental Information.