Erosion Control: Camarillo vs Ojai
How do erosion control rules compare between Camarillo, CA and Ojai, CA?
Camarillo and Ojai have similar restriction levels.
Camarillo, CA
Ventura County
Grading, drainage and erosion control in Camarillo are regulated under CMC Title 16 (Building Code), which adopts the California Building Code with local amendments. Any project that disturbs soil or alters drainage typically requires a grading permit from the Public Works/Building & Safety counter and a Best Management Practices (BMP) plan to prevent sediment runoff.
View full Camarillo rules →Ojai, CA
Ventura County
Construction projects in unincorporated Ventura County must implement erosion control BMPs. Projects disturbing 1 acre or more require a SWPPP under the state Construction General Permit. Heightened requirements apply during the rainy season.
View full Ojai rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Camarillo | Ojai |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | CMC Ch. 16.04 (adopts 2025 CBC + Appendix J) | - |
| Grading Permit | Required for soil disturbance | - |
| Wet Season BMPs | Oct 1 – April 30 | - |
| Stormwater Program | Ventura Countywide MS4 | - |
| BMPs Required | - | All soil-disturbing projects |
| SWPPP | - | Required for ≥1 acre |
| Rainy Season | - | Oct 1 - Apr 15 (heightened) |
| Enforcement | - | Watershed Protection District |
| State Permit | - | Construction General Permit |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Camarillo FAQ
Do I need a permit to grade my Camarillo lot?
Yes — any work that moves earth or alters drainage requires a grading permit from Camarillo Building & Safety under CMC Chapter 16.04 (which adopts the California Building Code, including the grading provisions of Appendix J).
Ojai FAQ
What erosion controls are required?
Silt fences, fiber rolls, stabilized entrances, and erosion blankets. Projects over 1 acre need a SWPPP. Requirements increase during rainy season (Oct 1-Apr 15).
Do I need a grading permit?
Contact Building & Safety at (805) 654-2797. Grading permits include erosion control requirements.
What if sediment runs off my site?
Sediment discharge can result in fines from the county and the Regional Water Quality Control Board (up to $10,000/day). Implement BMPs before any grading.
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