Grading & Drainage: Los Angeles vs Santa Monica
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Los Angeles and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
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 →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica requires adequate grading and drainage for all development. French drain systems with minimum 12x12 inch gravel cross-section required for downspout/gutter connections through curb face. The stormwater utility fee funds the drainage system.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| French Drain | - | 12x12 inch gravel minimum |
| Stormwater Fee | - | Based on parcel BMU |
| BMU | - | 0.0637 for avg single-family |
| Storage Areas | - | Must have adequate drainage |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica 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 Los Angeles and Santa Monica 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