Grading & Drainage: Clovis vs Reedley
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Clovis, CA and Reedley, CA?
Clovis and Reedley have similar restriction levels.
Clovis, CA
Fresno County
Grading permit required for earthwork over 50 cubic yards or cuts/fills over 3 feet per California Building Code Appendix J as adopted by Clovis. Drainage must not negatively impact adjacent properties.
View full Clovis rules →Reedley, CA
Fresno County
Reedley regulates grading and drainage through the 2022 California Building Code grading provisions (Appendix J) adopted under RMC Title 9 and storm drainage requirements in Municipal Code Title 12, Chapter 2. Grading permits are required for projects involving excavation or fill exceeding the thresholds established by the California Building Code, generally 50 cubic yards of material. All finished grades must direct surface drainage away from building foundations with a minimum 2 percent slope for the first 10 feet, and drainage must be conveyed to approved public storm drainage facilities or other approved outlets. Development must not increase stormwater runoff onto adjacent private properties or concentrate flows in ways that cause erosion or flooding. The relatively flat terrain of the San Joaquin Valley makes proper site grading and drainage design especially critical in Reedley, as even minor grading errors can cause persistent ponding, foundation damage, and drainage disputes with neighboring properties.
View full Reedley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clovis | Reedley |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Trigger | >50 cy or >3 ft cut/fill | - |
| Standard | CBC Appendix J | - |
| Engineer | Required for major grading | - |
| Drainage | No impact on neighbors | - |
| Department | Planning & Development | - |
| Grading Permit Trigger | - | Over 50 cubic yards |
| Foundation Slope | - | 2% min for first 10 feet |
| Retaining Wall Permit | - | Over 4 feet height |
| Drainage Code | - | RMC Title 12, Ch. 2 |
| Building Division | - | (559) 637-4200 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clovis FAQ
Can I regrade my backyard without a permit?
Small projects under 50 cubic yards with cuts/fills under 3 feet typically don't need a permit, but you cannot alter drainage in a way that floods neighboring properties.
When does Clovis require a civil engineer for grading plans?
For significant grading — generally any earthwork over 50 cubic yards or cuts/fills over 3 feet under CBC Appendix J. A licensed civil engineer must stamp the plans.
What happens if my Clovis backyard drains onto my neighbor's lot?
The neighbor has a civil nuisance claim under California Civil Code, and Clovis Planning & Development can require you to re-grade. Runoff must go to the street or an approved drainage conveyance.
Reedley FAQ
When do I need a grading permit in Reedley?
Grading permits are required for excavation or fill exceeding approximately 50 cubic yards, cuts deeper than 5 feet, or fill higher than 3 feet. Any grading that alters existing drainage patterns or involves significant earth movement requires a permit from the Building Division.
Can I direct water runoff onto my neighbor's property?
No. Drainage must be directed to approved public storm drainage facilities or other approved outlets. Concentrating runoff onto adjacent private property in a manner different from historic pre-development patterns is prohibited and can result in code enforcement action and civil liability.
Do I need a permit for a retaining wall?
Yes, retaining walls over 4 feet in exposed height require a building permit and must be designed by a California-licensed professional engineer. The design must include drainage provisions behind the wall to prevent hydrostatic pressure buildup. Contact the Building Division at (559) 637-4200.
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