Or, if Santa Barbara does not permit any STRs at all, they might just be betting they won't get caught (not a wise course of action, IMO).Definitely do the research, because if there's a way to do it legally, I'm sure you could make a killing from an apartment like that.  

If you are the first time home buyer, be careful with buying as is; check with city for any open permit or violations right after the offer is accepted.

Can I get a permit to build 3 units (each with 1000 sq st approx) and rent  them.

I don't know if the ADU is permitted by the city. 

In Encinitas, the City will give you approved plans for a detached ADU, you can get a studio, up to 3 bedrooms and pay no permits either. 

@Max Gustofson you might not be able to rent it short term unless you get a permit from the city which requires your property to be in certain areas of the city

It doesn't make sense to take on that risk as an investor.ORANGE COUNTY STR RULES"Anyone who would like to use a portion of their home for a short-term rental must have a short-term rental property permit.

2- how much should i expect to spend on permitting and architects?

Pulling permits can be slowed down due to the offices being closed and we did have a bit of trouble hiring more workers about 2 months ago but lately it's been moving a lot better.

Purchase price: $366,000 Cash invested: $87,000 House Hacking / Live in Flip / New ConstructionAsking Price: $370,000Main House Rehab: $12,000VA Loan 0% downPITI: $2080Main House Rent: $4000* ATTACHED 615 SQFT ADU BUILD (OWNER BUILDER) *2 Bed 1 Bath, Washer & Dryer, LARGE Private yard and Entry.Grand Total Cost to Build: $50,000 (Plans, Permits, Construction, Fees, Etc.)ADU Rent: $ 2100* 488 SQFT JADU (GARAGE CONVERSION) (OWNER BUILDER) *1 Bed 1 Bath, Washer & Dryer, Private yard, parking and Entry.Grand Total Cost to Build: $25,000 (Plans, Permits, Construction, Fees, Etc.)JADU Rent: $1500 What made you interested in investing in this type of deal?