Grading & Drainage: Alpharetta vs Atlanta
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Alpharetta, GA and Atlanta, GA?
Alpharetta, GA
Fulton County
No data available yet for Alpharetta.
Atlanta, GA
Fulton County
Atlanta regulates grading and drainage through the Land Disturbance Permit process under City Code Chapter 74 and the Department of Watershed Management. All grading activities must maintain natural drainage patterns and prevent adverse impacts on neighboring properties. Projects must comply with the city's stormwater management standards and the Georgia Stormwater Management Manual.
View full Atlanta rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Alpharetta | Atlanta |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Code | - | Atlanta Code Ch. 74 — Environment |
| Permit Required | - | Land Disturbance Permit for all grading |
| Design Storm | - | 25-year storm event |
| Stabilization | - | Within 14 days of final grading |
| Penalty | - | Up to $1,000/day; stop-work orders |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Alpharetta FAQ
No FAQs available.
Atlanta FAQ
Can I regrade my yard without a permit?
Any land-disturbing activity in Atlanta requires compliance with grading and erosion control standards. Small projects may not need a full Land Disturbance Permit but must still implement erosion controls and must not divert stormwater onto neighboring properties.
What drainage standards apply?
Developments must handle the 25-year storm event and maintain predevelopment drainage patterns. On-site detention and green infrastructure are required to prevent increased runoff to adjacent properties.
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