Temporary Parking Created for Julefest (Nov. 28 - Jan. 4)

The City of Solvang is excited to announce a temporary parking area on Lot 72 (empty field behind the former Solvang Outlet mall) to ease congestion in residential neighborhoods, reduce parking stress, and create a smoother, more festive experience for all. This is a short-term solution designed specifically for Julefest. This temporary parking option will be available from November 28 through January 4, 2026, offering visitors, employees of village businesses, and residents a safe and convenient place to park while enjoying the many events that Juelefest has to offer. 

Julefest Parking Fast Facts

• Weeds, grass and gopher holes will be cleared in the 2.5 acre area
• The location was chosen with care for historical artifacts and guidance from the Chumash Nation
• Temporary lighting will be in place for safety until 10 p.m.
• Trash receptacles provided
• Pedestrian trail will remain open for all to enjoy
• Wayfinding signage will direct traffic to the parking lot
• Parking open until 10 p.m., Nov. 28 - Jan. 4

We appreciate the community’s support as we work together to ensure the holiday season is safe, fun, and accessible for everyone. To find more about what was approved visit our temporary use permit page. 

Short Term Vacation Rental Ordinance Update Proposed

Solvang is a tourist destination that welcomes countless visitors throughout the year. At the same time, along with many communities around California, Solvang is experiencing a shortage in long-term housing.

The existing short term rental ordinance was created to balance visitor accommodations with neighborhood quality of life. Now, with just a few finger swipes and photos, it has become increasingly easy to monetize homes into vacation rentals. In response, the City held a series of study sessions with the City Council to tackle this issue.  

On Sept. 22 the City Council provided direction for staff to revise the short term rental ordinance solidifying that rentals are only permitted in the Village Mixed-Use (VMU) District (formerly the TRC zone), unless a property outside the VMU already held a valid vacation rental permit. Rentals would only be allowed in legally constructed residential units and residential units such as ADUs (granny units, second units, etc.), live-work units. Recreational vehicles are prohibited from serving as a vacation rental.  

City staff will begin notifying owners of vacation rental properties outside of the VMU that their short term rental violates the current and future ordinance. New enforcement tools will be added in the proposed ordinance to address violations and ensure neighborhood preservation for residents. The proposed ordinance will be further refined by city staff and is expected to be reviewed by the Planning Commission in late fall of this year, then require City Council adoption.

The revised vacation rental ordinance intends to require that vacation rentals operate safely, responsibly, and with respect for neighbors while still supporting Solvang’s economy. To learn more about the existing vacation rental ordinance and implementation, visit Solvang’s Short Term Rental Page. 

What's in the Proposed Short Term Rental Ordinance?

• Owners must apply for and maintain a valid short-term rental permit annually, acquire business certificates, and pay transient occupancy tax.
• Rentals must meet safety standards, including smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and proper maintenance.
• Occupancy would be capped based on the number of bedrooms, and all rentals must provide adequate parking.
• A local contact person must be available 24/7 and able to respond within 60 minutes to any complaints.
• City staff proposes a cap of 30 total vacation rental permits and implementation of a minimum stay requiring a short term rental be utilized a minimum of 30 nights per year. 

Solvang Recognized for Excellence in Financial Reporting 

Congratulations to Administrative Services Director Wendy Berry, Administrative Services Manager Jason Banta and the Finance team for their outstanding work in upholding these excellent financial reporting standards on behalf of our community.

They have been recognized by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) with the prestigious Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. 

This award is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, reflecting the City’s strong commitment to transparency and accountability. 

Solvang Communities Achieve Firewise Designation

Congratulations to Fredensborg Canyon and Alisal Ranch for earning official Firewise recognition! With support from the Santa Barbara County Fire Safe Council, both communities have taken proactive steps to reduce wildfire risk and strengthen neighborhood resilience. Firewise USA®, a free national program, helps residents organize, assess local wildfire risks, and create action plans to protect their homes and families. This designation highlights the power of neighbors working together to prepare for wildfire and safeguard our community. To learn more about how your neighborhood can become Firewise, visit Santa Barbara County Fire Safe Council or email Kate Furlong at kfurlong@sbfiresafecouncil.org or Charles Harris at charris@sbfiresafecouncil.org.

Shaping the Future of Solvang: Parks & Recreation Master Plan 

Solvang residents are invited to an important community conversation on the future of our parks, open spaces, and recreation programs. The Master Plan Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct.15 at 6 PM in Solvang City Council Chambers, 1644 Oak Street. 

Come share your ideas, connect with neighbors, and help shape the vision for the next generation of parks and recreation in Solvang. Light refreshments will be provided. 

Zoom In! If you’re unable to attend in person, you can participate via Zoom. Find the link on the City of Solvang Parks & Recreation Facebook page or below.

City Honors Santa Ynez Valley News on 100th Anniversary

The City of Solvang is proud to recognize the Santa Ynez Valley News for a century of service to our community. Since its founding in 1925, the newspaper has been the trusted voice of the Valley—chronicling local milestones, preserving our culture and heritage, and supporting civic life through dedicated journalism. On September 8, 2025, Mayor David Brown and the City Council issued a proclamation congratulating the Santa Ynez Valley News on its 100th anniversary and honoring the generations of journalists, editors, and staff who have built this legacy.

Celebrating California Nature Art Museum Day

On Sept. 29, the City of Solvang proudly proclaimed California Nature Art Museum Day in honor of the museum’s 25 years of inspiring stewardship of nature through art and education. Founded in 2000 by conservation advocate and artist Patti Jacquemain, the museum has welcomed over 200,000 visitors, hosted more than 120 exhibitions, and provided free tours, workshops, and nature excursions that connect people of all ages to the natural world. Home to Lulu Hyggelig—the beloved troll sculpture by Danish recycle artist Thomas Dambo—the museum continues to enrich our community.