Grading & Drainage: Altadena vs Burbank
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Altadena, CA and Burbank, CA?
Burbank has fewer restrictions than Altadena.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Hillside grading exceeding 2,500 cubic yards cut + fill requires a Conditional Use Permit in Altadena (CSD 22.306.060.B.2.b). Grading during the Oct 15 – Apr 15 rainy season is subject to Public Works erosion-control requirements.
View full Altadena rules →Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Grading permits are required for significant earth-moving activities in Burbank. Hillside development near the Verdugo Mountains has additional grading restrictions. Drainage must be directed to approved outlets per city engineering standards.
View full Burbank rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Burbank |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Altadena CSD 22.306.060.B + LA County 22.140.240 | - |
| CUP Threshold | 2,500 cy cut + fill | - |
| Haul Route | Required ≥1,000 cy off-site | - |
| Rainy Season | Oct 15 – Apr 15 (extra controls) | - |
| Permit | - | Grading permit required |
| Hillside | - | Additional restrictions near Verdugos |
| Drainage | - | Must drain to approved outlets |
| Department | - | Public Works / Community Development |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Do I need a permit to grade my Altadena hillside lot?
Yes — a Minor Conditional Use Permit is required for any hillside development, and a full CUP if grading exceeds 2,500 cubic yards total (CSD 22.306.060.B).
Burbank FAQ
Do I need a grading permit?
Generally required for earth-moving over 50 to 100 cubic yards or changes to existing drainage patterns. Small landscaping projects are usually exempt.
My neighbor changed their grading and water flows onto my property. What can I do?
Contact Burbank code enforcement. Redirecting drainage onto neighboring properties violates most municipal codes. The neighbor may be required to restore proper drainage.
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