Grading & Drainage: Glendale vs Los Angeles
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Glendale, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Los Angeles has fewer restrictions than Glendale.
Glendale, CA
Los Angeles County
Glendale requires grading permits for earthwork in hillside and flat areas. Retaining walls limited to 5 ft exposed height with max 3 successive walls. Combined height cannot exceed 10 ft. Drainage plans required.
View full Glendale 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 | Glendale | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Grading Permit | Required | - |
| Retaining Wall Max | 5 ft exposed height | - |
| Successive Walls | Max 3, combined 10 ft | - |
| Drainage Plan | Required for development | - |
| Permit | - | LADBS grading permit required |
| Stormwater | - | BMP compliance required (LAMC 91.106.4.1) |
| Hillside | - | Enhanced standards under BHO |
| Drainage | - | Must not direct water to neighbors |
| Geotech Report | - | Typically required for hillside |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Glendale 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 Glendale 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.
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