Structure Height Limits: Altadena vs Glendale
How do structure height 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 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 →Glendale, CA
Los Angeles County
Building heights in Glendale are set by zoning district under GMC Title 30. Hillside areas have additional design review. Detached ADUs limited to 16 ft; attached ADUs to 25 ft. Transit-adjacent ADUs may reach 18 ft.
View full Glendale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Glendale |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Standards | - | Vary by zoning district |
| Detached ADU | - | 16 feet maximum |
| Attached ADU | - | 25 feet maximum |
| Hillside | - | Design review required |
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).
Glendale FAQ
What is the max height for a house?
Typically 35 feet or 2.5 stories in residential zones. Check Glendale 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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