Grading & Drainage: Snellville vs Suwanee
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Snellville, GA and Suwanee, GA?
Snellville and Suwanee have similar restriction levels.
Snellville, GA
Gwinnett County
Grading permits required for land disturbance per Chapter 36. Must not divert stormwater onto adjacent properties. Follows GA Stormwater Management Manual (Blue Book).
View full Snellville rules →Suwanee, GA
Gwinnett County
Grading and drainage reviewed under Suwanee Code Ch. 34 and IBC/IRC adopted by reference. Grading permit issued with building permit or land disturbance permit. Positive drainage away from structures (6 inches in first 10 feet) required.
View full Suwanee rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Snellville | Suwanee |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Required before earthwork | - |
| Manual | GSMM Blue Book | - |
| Runoff | No net increase | - |
| Diversion | Onto neighbors prohibited | - |
| Code | - | Ch. 34; IRC R401.3 |
| Slope | - | 6 in. / 10 ft away |
| Design | - | GA Blue Book |
| Threshold | - | >5,000 sf |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Snellville FAQ
Can my neighbor regrade and flood my yard?
No. Georgia follows modified common enemy rule - you cannot collect and discharge water onto a neighbor. File complaint with Planning & Development or pursue civil nuisance claim.
Do I need a grading permit for my Snellville backyard project?
Yes for any significant land disturbance. Snellville Land Development Code requires site plan review before earthwork that changes drainage patterns.
What standards does Snellville use for stormwater on new construction?
The Georgia Stormwater Management Manual (Blue Book). Post-development runoff cannot exceed pre-development rates for 1-, 25-, and 100-year storms.
Suwanee FAQ
Can I regrade my yard?
Minor regrading that doesn't alter drainage patterns or exceed 5,000 sf typically doesn't need a permit. Check with Suwanee Planning first.
How much slope does Suwanee require away from my house?
Per IRC R401.3, at least 6 inches of fall in the first 10 feet away from the foundation.
Do I need a grading plan for a home addition?
Yes, if disturbed area exceeds 5,000 sq ft. Plans must show contours, drainage patterns, and BMPs per the GA Blue Book.
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