Grading & Drainage: Compton vs Los Angeles
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Compton, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Compton and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
Compton, CA
Los Angeles County
Grading in Compton requires a permit unless exempt under construction code provisions. Drainage must comply with LA County Flood Control District requirements. Retaining walls over 4 ft require a building permit. Fill at property limits requires retaining wall construction.
View full Compton rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Grading permits are required from LADBS for earthwork exceeding certain thresholds. The city conditions grading permits on stormwater pollution control compliance per LAMC 91.106.4.1. Hillside areas have enhanced grading standards under the Baseline Hillside Ordinance. Drainage must not direct water onto neighboring properties. A geotechnical report is typically required for hillside grading.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Compton | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Grading Permit | Required for most earthwork | - |
| Retaining Wall | Permit needed if over 4 ft | - |
| Drainage | LA County Flood Control standards | Must not direct water to neighbors |
| Fill Retention | Retaining walls at property limits | - |
| Permit | - | LADBS grading permit required |
| Stormwater | - | BMP compliance required (LAMC 91.106.4.1) |
| Hillside | - | Enhanced standards under BHO |
| Geotech Report | - | Typically required for hillside |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Compton FAQ
Do I need a grading permit?
Generally required for earth-moving over 50 to 100 cubic yards or changes to existing drainage patterns. Small landscaping projects are usually exempt.
My neighbor changed their grading and water flows onto my property. What can I do?
Contact Compton code enforcement. Redirecting drainage onto neighboring properties violates most municipal codes. The neighbor may be required to restore proper drainage.
Los Angeles FAQ
Do I need a grading permit?
Generally required for earth-moving over 50 to 100 cubic yards or changes to existing drainage patterns. Small landscaping projects are usually exempt.
My neighbor changed their grading and water flows onto my property. What can I do?
Contact Los Angeles code enforcement. Redirecting drainage onto neighboring properties violates most municipal codes. The neighbor may be required to restore proper drainage.
Compare other topics
See how Compton and Los Angeles compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool