Santa Barbara County Extends Moratorium on New Gun Retailers Amidst Safety Concerns
The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors has extended a moratorium on new gun retailers in the county's unincorporated areas until August 2027. This decision allows the county to investigate potential restrictions, such as a 1,000-foot buffer zone, around schools…
Santa Barbara Santa Maria San Luis Obispo, CA, September 24, 2026 —
The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors has voted to extend a moratorium on the establishment of new gun retailers within the county’s unincorporated areas. The prohibition is now set to remain in effect until August 2027.
This extended moratorium provides the county with additional time to explore and investigate potential regulatory measures concerning firearm sales. Among the possibilities being considered is the implementation of a 1,000-foot buffer zone. This proposed zone would aim to keep new gun stores located at least 1,000 feet away from schools and public spaces.
The decision follows recent concerns voiced by the community, particularly after a new gun store opened in proximity to a preschool in Goleta. Supervisors indicated that the extended period would allow for a more thorough examination of public safety implications and potential zoning adjustments related to the retail sale of firearms.
Further details regarding the specific scope of the investigation into potential restrictions, including the exact legal framework for the proposed buffer zones and any planned public comment periods, were not immediately available.
Story summarized from the original created by Daniel Green, Noozhawk Staff Writer on www.noozhawk.com, see more information here.
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