Burbank regulates building heights by zone under BMC Title 10, Article 13. Residential zones have specific height caps. Height is measured from finished grade to the highest point of the structure.
Burbank regulates maximum building and structure heights through the zoning code. Typical residential zones allow 35 feet or 2.5 stories, whichever is less. Height is measured from average finished grade to the highest point of the roof. Chimneys, antennas, and mechanical equipment may be exempt up to a limited additional height. Commercial and mixed-use zones may allow greater heights. Planned unit developments may negotiate alternative height standards. Height variances require zoning board review.
Exceeding height limit: stop-work order. Required to reduce height or obtain variance. Fines $250 to $2,000.
Burbank, CA
Outdoor burning in Burbank is subject to South Coast AQMD no-burn days and seasonal restrictions (November–February). Open burning of household trash is proh...
Burbank, CA
Properties in fire hazard zones must maintain 100 ft of defensible space per CA PRC 4291. Burbank Fire Department enforces brush clearance in hillside areas ...
Burbank, CA
All fireworks — including Safe & Sane — are banned in Burbank. Violations result in confiscation plus citation or arrest. State penalties: $500–$1,000 fine a...
Burbank, CA
Gas and propane fire pits are generally permitted in Burbank. Wood-burning fire pits subject to South Coast AQMD no-burn day restrictions. Areas near the Ver...
Burbank, CA
Burbank does NOT operate a proactive Rental Housing Inspection Program. The City launched a Housing Enforcement Unit (HEU) in March 2025 to investigate compl...
Burbank, CA
Outdoor lighting that creates a nuisance to neighboring properties may be addressed through Burbank's general nuisance provisions. No specific foot-candle th...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how other cities in Los Angeles County handle structure height limits.
See how Burbank's structure height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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