Grading & Drainage: Folsom vs Herald
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Folsom, CA and Herald, CA?
Folsom and Herald have similar restriction levels.
Folsom, CA
Sacramento County
Folsom grading permits are required for earthwork exceeding specific thresholds under FMC Title 14 and the California Building Code Appendix J. Drainage must not be diverted onto neighboring property. Hillside projects near the American River face additional scrutiny.
View full Folsom rules →Herald, CA
Sacramento County
Sacramento County grading regulated under County Code Chapter 16.44. Permits required for earthwork exceeding 50 cu yd, cuts/fills over specified depths, or work on steep slopes. Drainage must not be diverted onto neighboring properties. County drainage standards follow the Sacramento County Improvement Standards and Hydrology Manual.
View full Herald rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Folsom | Herald |
|---|---|---|
| Permit threshold | 50 cu yd or 5-ft slope | - |
| Code | FMC Title 14 + CBC App J | Chapter 16.44 |
| Drainage | Cannot divert to neighbor | - |
| Hillside | Geotech required | - |
| Inspections | Pre-grade, rough, final | - |
| Permit | - | 50+ cu yd |
| Standards | - | County Improvement Stds + Hydrology Manual |
| Diversion | - | Prohibited to neighbors |
| Waterway | - | 50 ft buffer triggers |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Folsom FAQ
Do I need a permit to level my backyard in Folsom?
Small landscaping-level grading under 50 cubic yards with no slope change over 5 feet is usually exempt. Larger earthwork or any grading that affects drainage to a neighbor's property requires a grading permit.
Who enforces this in Folsom?
Folsom code enforcement at (916) 355-7285 handles most complaints.
Herald FAQ
Can I regrade my backyard?
Minor regrading under 50 cubic yards generally does not require a permit. Significant earthwork, retaining walls over 4 feet, or drainage changes may.
What if my neighbor's drainage floods my yard?
Contact county code enforcement. California law generally prohibits concentrated diversion of surface water that damages neighbors.
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