Grading & Drainage: Cary vs Raleigh
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Cary, NC and Raleigh, NC?
Cary and Raleigh have similar restriction levels.
Cary, NC
Wake County
Wake County UDO Article 9 (Stormwater) and Article 10 (Erosion) regulate grading, drainage, and post-construction stormwater. The Neuse Stormwater Rules (15A NCAC 02B .0235) apply county-wide, requiring control of nitrogen, peak flow, and 50-ft riparian buffers.
View full Cary rules →Raleigh, NC
Wake County
Raleigh requires grading permits for land-disturbing activities under the UDO. Development projects must maintain existing drainage patterns and prevent adverse stormwater impacts on neighboring properties. Grading plans are required for projects that exceed the 12,000 sq ft disturbance threshold. All grading must comply with stormwater and erosion control standards outlined in the Raleigh Stormwater Design Manual.
View full Raleigh rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cary | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Nitrogen target | 4.0 lb/ac/yr | - |
| Buffer | 50 ft (riparian) | - |
| Falls Lake adds | Stricter nutrient cap | - |
| Stop-work power | Yes — Wake County | - |
| Code | UDO Arts. 9, 10 | - |
| Permit Required | - | Grading permit for land disturbance |
| Code Reference | - | Raleigh UDO — Development Standards |
| Threshold | - | 12,000 sq ft disturbance trigger |
| Drainage Standard | - | Must maintain pre-development drainage patterns |
| Design Manual | - | Raleigh Stormwater Design Manual |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cary FAQ
Can I regrade my own backyard?
Minor grading (driveway edges, small berms) is OK without permit. Larger work that may concentrate runoff or change drainage onto a neighbor needs a grading plan.
Do I need a permit for a swale?
Not usually for a single-lot swale, but if it discharges to a stream or buffer zone you'll need approval under UDO Article 9.
What is the Falls Lake rule?
Falls Lake Nutrient Strategy applies to north Wake and tightens phosphorus + nitrogen caps. Different rules from the rest of the county.
Raleigh FAQ
Do I need a grading permit in Raleigh?
Yes, a grading permit is generally required for land-disturbing activities of 12,000 square feet or more. Smaller residential projects may still need to comply with drainage standards to avoid impacting neighboring properties.
Can I change the drainage on my Raleigh property?
Grading that alters drainage patterns and adversely affects neighboring properties may violate the city code. Contact Raleigh's Stormwater division before altering drainage on your property.
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