How do you know if you need a Grading Permit?

You must apply for and receive a Grading Permit if ANY of these conditions exist:

• A project includes cuts & fills totaling more than 50 cubic yards of earth.
  
• A project includes cut or fill depths greater than 5-foot vertical at any point.
  
• A project includes soil disturbance by, plowing under or burial of more than 10,000 square feet of vegetation on slopes greater than ten percent.
  
• A project includes grading which will result in unstable or erodible slopes.
  
• Fill slopes are created which will support a future structure.
  
• A cut or fill is located so as to cause increased pressure or reduce support upon any adjacent structure or property.
  
• Constructing extensive drainage or sediment control structures, culverts or facilities or alteration of any existing drainage course.
  
• Constructing a pond that is greater than 50 feet in diameter and/or more than 2 feet deep.
  
• There is a significant risk that more than 2500 square feet will be unprotected or inadequately protected from erosion during any portion of the rainy season.
  
• Grading will occur near a property line or within 20 feet of any watercourse, or within the 100 year flood plain identified on the FEMA maps.
  
• Grading or improving a vehicular way where grading and/or drainage could adversely effect the stability or create erosion on adjacent properties.
  
• The Building Official determines that the grading will or may jeopardize life, limb, property or public welfare.

Laws and regulations regarding grading are contained in the County Land Use Codes.

Also, download our DO IT ONCE...DO IT RIGHT! grading flyer.