Grading & Drainage: Castro Valley vs San Leandro
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Castro Valley, CA and San Leandro, CA?
San Leandro has fewer restrictions than Castro Valley.
Castro Valley, CA
Alameda County
Alameda County regulates grading under Title 15 and CBC Appendix J. Permits are required for cuts or fills over 50 cubic yards or 3 feet in depth; hillside overlays have stricter rules.
View full Castro Valley 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 | Castro Valley | San Leandro |
|---|---|---|
| Code authority | Title 15 and CBC Appendix J | - |
| Permit trigger | 50 cubic yards or 3 feet | - |
| Hillside zones | Geotech report required | - |
| Wet season | Enhanced BMPs Oct-Apr | - |
| Neighbor drainage | Cannot redirect without consent | - |
| Permit threshold | - | 50 cu yd or 3 ft cut/fill |
| Code | - | CBC Appendix J |
| Drainage outlet | - | Street/storm drain |
| Retaining wall | - | Permit over 4 ft |
| Engineer | - | Required larger jobs |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Castro Valley FAQ
Do I need a permit to level my backyard?
Only if it exceeds 50 cubic yards, 3 feet in depth, or affects drainage onto neighbors. Small cosmetic grading for landscaping typically does not need a permit.
Can I divert runoff onto my neighbor's property?
No. Redirecting surface water that causes damage to adjoining property creates civil liability. Drainage must be directed to approved facilities or retained on-site.
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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