Grading & Drainage: Midway City vs Orange
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Midway City, CA and Orange, CA?
Orange has fewer restrictions than Midway City.
Midway City, CA
Orange County
The Orange County Grading and Excavation Code (OCCO Title 7, Division 1, Article 8) requires grading permits for all excavation and earthwork in unincorporated areas. Section 7-1-805 prohibits grading, clearing, brushing, or grubbing without a permit from the Building Official. Drainage facilities must conform to Subarticle 11 of the OC Grading Manual.
View full Midway City rules →Orange, CA
Orange County
The City of Orange requires grading permits for earthwork and site drainage management under OMC Title 15 and the California Building Code. A Water Quality Management Plan must be submitted before grading permit issuance.
View full Orange rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Midway City | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | OCCO §7-1-805 through §7-1-811 | - |
| Permit Required | All grading/excavation/clearing | - |
| Drainage Reference | OC Grading Manual, Subarticle 11 | - |
| Blasting Permit | OCCO §7-1-808 (OC Fire Authority) | - |
| Enforcement | OC Development Services | - |
| Grading Permit | - | Required for most earthwork |
| WQMP | - | Required before permit |
| SWPPP | - | Required if 1+ acre disturbed |
| Contact | - | Public Works (714) 744-5525 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Midway City FAQ
Do I need a grading permit in unincorporated Orange County?
Yes. Under OCCO §7-1-805, all grading, clearing, brushing, and grubbing activities require a grading permit from the Building Official. This includes excavation, fill placement, and earthwork on private property.
What drainage requirements apply to grading in unincorporated Orange County?
Drainage facilities must conform to Subarticle 11 of the OC Grading Manual. Finished surfaces must direct water away from structures toward approved drainage facilities, and precise grading plans must show drainage patterns and connections to the public storm drain system.
Orange FAQ
Do I need a grading permit in Orange?
Yes for most earthwork projects. Contact the Public Works Department at (714) 744-5525 to determine if your project requires a grading permit.
What is required before I can get a grading permit?
You must submit a Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) and grading plans showing drainage patterns and erosion control measures for Public Works approval.
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