Colorado Springs City Code Section 7.4.601 and the Drainage Criteria Manual govern all grading and drainage activities. A Grading and Erosion Control permit is required before any land disturbance. The Drainage Criteria Manual specifies design standards for open channels, underground conveyance, permanent control measures for water quality treatment and detention. All development must ensure downstream stormwater infrastructure can safely pass 2-year, 25-year, and 100-year storm events, with analysis extending at minimum to the next two downstream structures.
Colorado Springs regulates grading and drainage through building and engineering codes. Grading permits required for excavation or fill over specified thresholds, typically 50 to 100 cubic yards. Site grading must direct drainage away from structures and not adversely affect neighboring properties. Drainage swales, French drains, and catch basins may be required. Retaining walls over 4 feet need engineering and separate permits. Compaction testing required for structural fill. Final grade must match approved plans. Property owners responsible for maintaining drainage facilities on their land.
Unpermitted grading: stop-work order and fines $250 to $2,500. Redirecting drainage to neighbors: corrective action required. Slope failure from improper grading: liability and remediation costs.
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