Grading & Drainage: Berkeley vs San Leandro
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Berkeley, CA and San Leandro, CA?
San Leandro has fewer restrictions than Berkeley.
Berkeley, CA
Alameda County
Berkeley requires grading permits for earthwork over 50 cubic yards or cuts/fills over 3 feet under BMC Title 19, with enhanced review in Hillside Overlay and Alquist-Priolo zones.
View full Berkeley rules →San Leandro, CA
Alameda County
San Leandro grading permits required for moves over 50 cubic yards or cuts/fills over 3 ft deep. CBC Appendix J governs drainage.
View full San Leandro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | San Leandro |
|---|---|---|
| Permit threshold | 50 cu yd or 3 ft | 50 cu yd or 3 ft cut/fill |
| Slope threshold | Steeper than 3:1 | - |
| Retaining wall permit | Over 4 feet | - |
| Fault zone | Alquist-Priolo review | - |
| Code | BMC Title 19 | CBC Appendix J |
| Drainage outlet | - | Street/storm drain |
| Retaining wall | - | Permit over 4 ft |
| Engineer | - | Required larger jobs |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Berkeley FAQ
Can I regrade my backyard without a permit?
Only if under 50 cubic yards, cuts less than 3 feet, and not in hillside or fault zone; otherwise permit required.
Can drainage go onto my neighbor property?
No, runoff must be directed to approved disposal; state Civil Code prohibits altering natural drainage to harm neighbors.
San Leandro FAQ
Can I drain my yard onto my neighbor?
No. Runoff must be conveyed to the public right-of-way or an approved drainage system.
Do small raised beds need a permit?
No. Permits kick in at 50 cubic yards or 3 ft cut/fill height.
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