Pasadena Zoning

RS-4 Zone in Pasadena, CA

RS-4 zoning district rules in Pasadena, CA. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.

Residential DistrictSuburban Residential

The RS-4 zone in Pasadena, CA is a residential district (Suburban Residential). Lower-density residential with larger setbacks and lot sizes than standard residential zones. Common in outer suburban areas and early-generation subdivisions. This zone requires a 25 ft front setback, 7 ft side setback, and 20 ft rear setback. Maximum building height is 35 feet (2 stories). Maximum lot coverage is 35%.

Common Permitted Uses

  • Single-family homes

Lower-density residential with larger setbacks and lot sizes than standard residential zones. Common in outer suburban areas and early-generation subdivisions.

Setback Requirements

Setback TypeRequirement
Front Setback25 feet
Side Setback7 feet
Rear Setback20 feet

Pasadena Zoning Code. RS-4 is the primary single-family zone at 4 units/acre. Larger setbacks than many LA-area cities reflect Pasadena's spacious estate character in many neighborhoods.

Height Limits

Max Height
35 feet
Max Stories
2

Pasadena Zoning Code. Single-family residential with generous height limit reflecting larger homes.

Lot Coverage

Max Coverage
35%

Pasadena Zoning Code. Conservative coverage limit reflects Pasadena's low-density single-family estate character in RS-4 neighborhoods.

Parking Requirements

Single-family: 2 covered spaces per single-family dwelling. Garage or carport required per Pasadena Zoning Code. Many historic homes have detached garages at rear. Multi-family: 1.5–2 spaces per unit depending on zone. Reduced near Metro L Line stations along the Colorado Blvd/Del Mar corridor.

Source: Pasadena Zoning Code Section 17.50.030 — Accessory Dwelling Units; California Government Code §§66314–66333 (Stats. 2024 Ch. 7 §20). Last verified April 6, 2026. View source

Last updated: April 6, 2026
RS-4 Zone in Pasadena, CA — Permitted Uses & Rules | PropertyZoned