Structure Height Limits: Altadena vs Burbank
How do structure height 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 height: 35 ft on lots ≥20,000 sf; 30 ft on lots <20,000 sf and flag lots. Maximum 2 stories above grade. No portion of any structure may exceed 23 ft if within 15 ft of any property line.
View full Altadena rules →Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
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.
View full Burbank rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Burbank |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Altadena CSD 22.306.070.A.2 | - |
| Max Height ≥20k sf | 35 ft | - |
| Max Height <20k sf | 30 ft | - |
| Flag Lots | 30 ft | - |
| Max Stories | 2 above grade | - |
| Within 15 ft of PL | 23 ft | - |
| Code | - | BMC Title 10, Article 13 |
| Measurement | - | Finished grade to highest point |
| Varies By | - | Zoning district |
| Exceptions | - | Chimneys, antennas may be exempt |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
How tall can a house be in Altadena?
35 ft on lots 20,000 sq ft and larger, 30 ft on smaller lots, with a maximum of 2 stories above grade (Altadena CSD 22.306.070.A.2).
Burbank FAQ
What is the max height for a house?
Typically 35 feet or 2.5 stories in residential zones. Check Burbank zoning code for your specific district.
Do chimneys count toward height?
Chimneys and similar projections are usually exempt up to a limited additional height above the roof.
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