Lot Coverage Limits: Altadena vs Burbank
How do lot coverage limits rules compare between Altadena, CA and Burbank, CA?
Altadena and Burbank have similar restriction levels.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Altadena R-1 max Gross Structural Area (GSA) and lot coverage = (0.25 × net lot area) + 1,000 sq ft, never exceeding 9,000 sq ft total (Altadena CSD 22.306.070.A.4).
View full Altadena rules →Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Maximum lot coverage in Burbank is 50% of net lot area. Lots under 6,000 sq ft may exceed 50% with a Single Family Development Permit. Pools, hot tubs, and up to two small accessory structures under 120 sq ft are excluded from calculations.
View full Burbank rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Burbank |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Altadena CSD 22.306.070.A.4 | - |
| GSA Formula | 0.25 × lot area + 1,000 sf | - |
| Maximum Cap | 9,000 sq ft | - |
| Excluded From GSA | Cellars + auto garages/carports | - |
| Maximum | - | 50% of net lot area |
| Small Lots | - | May exceed with SFDP (<6,000 sq ft) |
| Excluded | - | Pools, hot tubs, 2 structures <120 sq ft |
| Code | - | BMC Title 10 zoning |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
How big a house can I build on a 10,000-sq-ft Altadena lot?
Maximum GSA = 0.25 × 10,000 + 1,000 = 3,500 sq ft (excluding garage and cellar). The absolute cap is 9,000 sq ft on any lot.
Burbank FAQ
What counts as lot coverage?
All impervious surfaces: buildings, garages, driveways, patios, and walkways. Permeable pavers may be partially excluded.
How do I calculate my lot coverage?
Divide total impervious surface area by total lot area. Check Burbank zoning for your district’s maximum.
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