Grading & Drainage: Folsom vs Rancho Cordova
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Folsom, CA and Rancho Cordova, CA?
Folsom and Rancho Cordova 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 →Rancho Cordova, CA
Sacramento County
Rancho Cordova Municipal Code Title 22 (adopting Sacramento County grading standards) requires a grading permit for any earthwork over 50 cubic yards or cuts/fills over 3 feet; erosion/sediment controls and NPDES compliance required for disturbance over 1 acre.
View full Rancho Cordova rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Folsom | Rancho Cordova |
|---|---|---|
| Permit threshold | 50 cu yd or 5-ft slope | - |
| Code | FMC Title 14 + CBC App J | RCMC Title 22 |
| Drainage | Cannot divert to neighbor | - |
| Hillside | Geotech required | - |
| Inspections | Pre-grade, rough, final | - |
| Permit Trigger | - | 50+ cubic yards or 3 ft cut |
| NPDES Trigger | - | 1+ acre disturbance |
| Winter Season | - | Oct 15 - Apr 15 BMPs |
| Fines | - | $500-$2,500/day |
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.
Rancho Cordova FAQ
Do I need a grading permit for a small backyard drainage project?
If you're moving under 50 cubic yards and cuts/fills stay under 3 feet without altering drainage patterns, generally no permit is required. Larger projects or work changing runoff paths need a Title 22 permit.
Who issues grading permits in Rancho Cordova?
Sacramento County Building Division issues permits under a services contract. Apply online through Sacramento County's Building Permits & Inspections portal — Rancho Cordova Public Works reviews drainage/floodplain aspects.
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