Grading & Drainage: Herald vs Sacramento
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Herald, CA and Sacramento, CA?
Sacramento has fewer restrictions than Herald.
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 →Sacramento, CA
Sacramento County
Sacramento regulates grading and drainage under City Code Title 15 and the City's Design and Procedures Manual. Grading permits are required for projects involving significant earthwork, and all development must maintain proper drainage to prevent flooding of adjacent properties. The City requires drainage studies for projects that alter existing drainage patterns or increase impervious surface area.
View full Sacramento rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Herald | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Code | Chapter 16.44 | - |
| Permit | 50+ cu yd | - |
| Standards | County Improvement Stds + Hydrology Manual | - |
| Diversion | Prohibited to neighbors | - |
| Waterway | 50 ft buffer triggers | - |
| Code Section | - | Sacramento City Code Title 15 |
| Permit Required | - | For significant grading and earthwork |
| Drainage Study | - | Required when altering existing drainage patterns |
| Combined Sewer | - | Central city served by combined sewer system |
| Review | - | Department of Utilities reviews drainage plans |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Sacramento FAQ
Do I need a grading permit for backyard landscaping?
Minor landscaping typically does not require a grading permit. However, projects involving significant changes in grade or drainage patterns may need one. Contact the Community Development Department for specific thresholds.
Can I redirect drainage on my property?
You may manage drainage on your property, but you cannot direct water onto neighboring properties in a way that causes damage. Drainage modifications may require city review and approval.
Compare other topics
See how Herald and Sacramento 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