Altadena Community Overlay Summary
Core Zoning Framework
Residential Zones
- R-1 (Single Family): Primary residential zone with one dwelling unit per lot
- R-2 (Two Family): Allows duplexes and single-family homes
- R-3 (Multi-Family): Permits triplexes, fourplexes, and apartments
- RE (Large Lot): Multiple subcategories (RE9-RE40) for larger properties
- RD (Duplex/Small Lot): For duplexes and small lot subdivisions
Development Standards by Lot Size
Lot Size (sq ft) | Front Yard | Back Yard | Side Yard | Max Height
----------------|------------|-----------|-----------|------------
40,000+ | 20 ft | 35 ft | 5/10 ft | 35 ft
20,000-39,999 | 20 ft | 35 ft | 5/10 ft | 35 ft
10,000-19,999 | 20 ft | 25 ft | 5/10 ft | 30 ft
5,000-9,999 | 20 ft | 20 ft | 5/10 ft | 30 ft
< 5,000 | 20 ft | 15 ft | 5/10 ft | 30 ft
Recent Changes (West San Gabriel Valley Area Plan)
Key Updates
- Rezoning of certain A-1 parcels to residential or open space
- No density increases in fire hazard areas
- Enhanced focus on wildfire risk mitigation
- New policies for road access in fire-prone areas
- Anticipated 10,874 new housing units over 20 years
ADU Regulations
- Maximum size: 1,200 sq ft (detached) or 50% of main dwelling
- 4-foot rear and side setbacks for new construction
- 25-foot height limit
- One attached ADU, one detached ADU, and one JADU allowed
- Solar panel requirements for new construction
- Parking exemptions within 1/2 mile of transit
Special Considerations
Hillside Management Areas
- Minor Conditional Use Permit required for most development
- Conditional Use Permit needed for >2,500 cubic yards grading
- Special fire safety and access requirements
- Restrictions on ridgeline and hilltop development
Environmental Protections
- Emphasis on preserving natural resources
- Strict development limitations in hazard areas
- Enhanced drainage and landscaping requirements
- Focus on sustainable development practices
Community Character Preservation
- Gross structural area limitations
- Fence and wall height restrictions
- Specific landscaping requirements
- Protection of neighborhood aesthetics
Building Permit Process
1. Application submission through EPIC-LA system
2. Agency approvals (as needed)
3. Plan check and review
4. Permit issuance
5. Required inspections
6. Final certification/occupancy
Contact Information
Department of Regional Planning:
- Phone: (213) 974-6411
- Email: info@planning.lacounty.gov
- Location: 320 W. Temple St., Rm. 1360, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Community Studies East (Altadena):
- Email: commplan@planning.lacounty.gov
- Section Head: Mi Kim (mkim@planning.lacounty.gov)
There is a map of the various zoning designations for Altadena. The Los Angeles County Department of Regional Planning provides a detailed zoning map for Altadena, which you can access here:
https://planning.lacounty.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/map_z_02_Altadena.pdf 1
Research Link