Grading & Drainage: Rockville vs Takoma Park
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Rockville, MD and Takoma Park, MD?
Rockville and Takoma Park have similar restriction levels.
Rockville, MD
Montgomery County
Rockville requires grading permits and drainage plans for projects that disturb 5,000 square feet or more under Chapter 19 of the City Code. Finished grading must provide positive drainage away from all building foundations. Standing water on lawns must drain within 24 hours after rainfall, and drainage may not be redirected onto adjacent properties.
View full Rockville rules →Takoma Park, MD
Montgomery County
Grading permits are required in Takoma Park through Montgomery County for earth-moving activities that alter existing drainage patterns. Projects must demonstrate that post-construction drainage does not increase runoff onto neighboring properties. Montgomery County regulates grading under Chapter 19 and requires both grading plans and stormwater management for significant earth disturbance.
View full Takoma Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Rockville | Takoma Park |
|---|---|---|
| Code Reference | Chapter 19, Rockville City Code | - |
| Permit Threshold | 5,000 sq ft or 100 cu yd | - |
| Drainage Standard | 24 hours to drain lawns | - |
| Max Slope | 3:1 in lawn areas | - |
| Contact | 240-314-8567 | - |
| Permit Required | - | For grade-altering work |
| Plan Trigger | - | 5,000+ sq ft disturbance |
| Key Rule | - | No increased runoff to neighbors |
| WSSC | - | Manages public storm drains |
| Public Works | - | 301-891-7633 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Rockville FAQ
When do I need a grading permit in Rockville?
A grading permit is required when your project disturbs 5,000 square feet or more of land or moves 100 cubic yards or more of soil. Contact the Department of Public Works at 240-314-8567.
Can I redirect drainage onto my neighbor's property?
No. Grading must not redirect surface drainage onto adjacent properties without appropriate easements. Violations may result in code enforcement action and civil liability.
How quickly must my yard drain after rain?
Finished grading must allow lawns to drain within 24 hours after rainfall ends. Designated drainage courses may take up to 48 hours.
Takoma Park FAQ
Do I need a grading permit in Takoma Park?
Yes, for any earth-disturbing activity that alters the existing grade or drainage pattern. Projects over 5,000 square feet require a formal grading plan by a licensed engineer.
Can I redirect drainage from my property?
You cannot redirect drainage in a way that increases runoff onto neighboring properties. Post-construction drainage must not adversely affect adjacent lots.
Who do I contact about a drainage problem?
Contact Takoma Park Public Works at 301-891-7633 for city infrastructure issues or Montgomery County DPS at 240-777-0311 for drainage problems caused by neighboring development.
Compare other topics
See how Rockville and Takoma Park 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