Grading & Drainage: Midway City vs Santa Ana
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Midway City, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Santa Ana 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 →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Santa Ana requires grading permits for earthwork and land-disturbing activities under its building and zoning codes. Projects must maintain existing drainage patterns and prevent adverse impacts on neighboring properties. Grading plans must be submitted for review by the Public Works department for projects exceeding certain thresholds.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Midway City | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | OCCO §7-1-805 through §7-1-811 | - |
| Permit Required | All grading/excavation/clearing | Grading permit from Public Works |
| Drainage Reference | OC Grading Manual, Subarticle 11 | - |
| Blasting Permit | OCCO §7-1-808 (OC Fire Authority) | - |
| Enforcement | OC Development Services | - |
| Plan Review | - | Grading and drainage plans required |
| Standard | - | Must maintain pre-development drainage |
| Authority | - | Public Works Agency |
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.
Santa Ana FAQ
Do I need a grading permit in Santa Ana?
Yes, grading permits are required for earthwork and land-disturbing activities that exceed specified thresholds. Contact the Public Works Agency for specific requirements.
What drainage requirements apply to grading in Santa Ana?
Projects must maintain existing drainage patterns and prevent runoff from adversely affecting neighboring properties. A grading and drainage plan is required for review.
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