Structure Height Limits: Los Angeles vs Palmdale
How do structure height limits rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Palmdale, CA?
Los Angeles and Palmdale have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Height limits in LA are controlled by height districts overlaid on zoning. The R1 zone in Height District 1 allows 36 feet / 3 stories. Hillside R1 lots are governed by the Baseline Hillside Ordinance (LAMC 12.21 C.10) with limits of 18-36 feet depending on slope. The Baseline Mansionization Ordinance further limits R1 residential scale. Commercial height varies by district (C2-1 allows 75 ft).
View full Los Angeles rules →Palmdale, CA
Los Angeles County
Palmdale zoning code sets maximum building heights by district. Residential zones typically limit structures to 35 feet or 2 to 3 stories.
View full Palmdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Palmdale |
|---|---|---|
| R1 Standard | 36 ft / 3 stories in Height District 1 | - |
| Hillside | 18-36 ft based on slope (BHO) | - |
| C2-1 | 75 ft commercial | - |
| Code Section | LAMC 12.21 C.10, 12.21.1 | - |
| Mansionization | BMO limits R1 scale | - |
| Residential | - | 35 feet / 2.5 stories typical |
| Measured From | - | Average finished grade |
| Exceptions | - | Chimneys, antennas limited |
| Topic | - | Structure Height Limits |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
What is the max height for a house?
Typically 35 feet or 2.5 stories in residential zones. Check Los Angeles 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.
Palmdale FAQ
What is the max height for a house?
Typically 35 feet or 2.5 stories in residential zones. Check Palmdale 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 Los Angeles and Palmdale compare on other ordinance categories.
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