Lot Coverage Limits: Altadena vs Glendale
How do lot coverage limits rules compare between Altadena, CA and Glendale, CA?
Altadena and Glendale 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 →Glendale, CA
Los Angeles County
Lot coverage in Glendale varies by residential zone under GMC Title 30. Solar equipment gets a 30% bonus above allowable lot coverage. ADU area up to 800 sq ft excluded from lot coverage calculations.
View full Glendale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Glendale |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Altadena CSD 22.306.070.A.4 | GMC Title 30 Zoning Code |
| GSA Formula | 0.25 × lot area + 1,000 sf | - |
| Maximum Cap | 9,000 sq ft | - |
| Excluded From GSA | Cellars + auto garages/carports | - |
| Standards | - | Vary by zoning district |
| Solar Bonus | - | 30% above allowable coverage |
| ADU Exclusion | - | Up to 800 sq ft excluded |
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.
Glendale 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 Glendale zoning for your district’s maximum.
Compare other topics
See how Altadena and Glendale 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