Cape Coral regulates grading and drainage through its Land Use and Development Regulations and building permit process. Proper site grading is critical in this low-lying city to direct water away from structures and into the canal drainage system without causing adverse impacts to neighboring properties.
Building permits require grading and drainage plans showing how stormwater will be managed on site. Fill placement and grading must not redirect water onto adjacent properties. The city's flat topography and high water table mean that even minor grade changes can significantly affect drainage patterns. Lot grading must direct water toward swales, retention areas, or the canal system. SFWMD surface water management permits may be required for larger projects. French drains and retention systems are commonly used to manage on-site drainage.
Improper grading that causes flooding on neighboring properties is a code violation subject to enforcement action. The city may require corrective grading at the property owner's expense. Unpermitted fill placement carries fines. Drainage complaints are investigated by code compliance.
Cape Coral, FL
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Cape Coral, FL
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See how Cape Coral's grading & drainage rules stack up against other locations.
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