Structure Height Limits: Altadena vs El Monte
How do structure height limits rules compare between Altadena, CA and El Monte, CA?
Altadena and El Monte 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 →El Monte, CA
Los Angeles County
El Monte height limits vary by zone per the zoning code. ADUs allowed up to 16 ft, with exceptions up to 25 ft for two-story ADUs in certain zones. Architectural features may extend into setbacks.
View full El Monte rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | El Monte |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| ADU | - | 16 ft (25 ft in some zones) |
| Residential | - | Per zone district standards |
| Exceptions | - | Cornices, chimneys may extend |
| Code | - | Title 17 Zoning |
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).
El Monte FAQ
What is the max height for a house?
Typically 35 feet or 2.5 stories in residential zones. Check El Monte 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.
Compare other topics
See how Altadena and El Monte compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool