Structure Height Limits: Altadena vs Santa Clarita
How do structure height limits rules compare between Altadena, CA and Santa Clarita, CA?
Altadena and Santa Clarita 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 →Santa Clarita, CA
Los Angeles County
Commercial/industrial buildings over 35 ft require a CUP. ADUs limited to 16 ft detached or 25 ft attached. Hillside areas have additional restrictions.
View full Santa Clarita rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Santa Clarita |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Commercial/Industrial | - | 35 ft, CUP above |
| Detached ADU | - | 16 ft max |
| Attached ADU | - | 25 ft or zone max |
| Hillside | - | Additional standards apply |
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).
Santa Clarita FAQ
What is the max height for a house?
Typically 35 feet or 2.5 stories in residential zones. Check Santa Clarita 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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