Grading & Drainage: Camarillo vs Ventura
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Camarillo, CA and Ventura, CA?
Camarillo and Ventura have similar restriction levels.
Camarillo, CA
Ventura County
Camarillo issues grading permits under CMC Title 16 (Building Code), which incorporates the California Building Code's grading and drainage provisions (CBC Appendix J). Any cut, fill, or change to surface drainage that exceeds adopted thresholds requires plans, a soils/geotechnical report on hillside sites, and inspection sign-offs.
View full Camarillo rules →Ventura, CA
Ventura County
Ventura requires grading permits for significant earth-moving activities. Drainage plans must demonstrate that water flows are managed and do not adversely impact neighboring properties. Hillside grading is subject to enhanced standards including geotechnical review.
View full Ventura rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Camarillo | Ventura |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | CMC Ch. 16.04; CBC Appendix J | - |
| Permit Threshold | Cut >5 ft or fill >50 cu yd | - |
| Hillside Sites | Geotechnical report required | - |
| Drainage | May not be redirected onto neighbor | - |
| Permit | - | Required for significant grading |
| Drainage Plan | - | Must show no adverse impact to neighbors |
| Hillside | - | Geotechnical report required |
| Coastal Zone | - | CDP may be required |
| Contact | - | Community Development (805) 654-7869 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Camarillo FAQ
When does Camarillo require a grading permit?
When you cut more than 5 feet, fill more than 50 cubic yards, or alter the established drainage pattern on the lot — per CBC Appendix J as adopted by CMC Chapter 16.04.
Ventura FAQ
Do I need a grading permit in Ventura?
Significant earth-moving activities including cuts, fills, and grade changes exceeding certain thresholds require grading permits. Contact Community Development at (805) 654-7869 for specific thresholds.
Can I change the drainage on my property?
Changes must not adversely impact neighboring properties. A drainage plan may be required showing how water flows are managed. Redirecting water onto a neighbor's property creates liability.
What about grading on hillside lots?
Hillside grading requires geotechnical reports, enhanced slope stability analysis, and erosion control measures in addition to standard grading permits.
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