Doral requires grading and drainage plans for all new development and significant site modifications to ensure proper stormwater conveyance and prevent flooding of adjacent properties. Site grading must direct water to approved drainage systems and maintain minimum finished floor elevations above the crown of road or base flood elevation, whichever is higher.
Grading and drainage in Doral is regulated through the site plan review process administered by Growth Management. All new development and significant redevelopment must submit grading and drainage plans prepared by a Florida-licensed professional engineer demonstrating that the site will properly convey stormwater to approved drainage facilities without adversely affecting adjacent properties. Doral's flat topography with typical ground elevations of 5 to 10 feet NAVD88 requires careful attention to finish grades and drainage design. Minimum finished floor elevations must be established above the crown of the adjacent road or the Base Flood Elevation plus freeboard, whichever is higher. Positive drainage away from building foundations is required on all sides. Site grading must not redirect stormwater onto adjacent properties or obstruct natural drainage patterns. Swales and drainage easements must be maintained clear of obstructions. Filling or grading within SFWMD canal rights-of-way or maintenance easements requires SFWMD approval. Doral's high water table, typically 3 to 5 feet below grade during the wet season, constrains the use of certain drainage techniques such as dry retention and requires careful design of exfiltration systems. Dewatering during construction may require permits from SFWMD and must not cause adverse impacts to adjacent properties. All drainage improvements connecting to the public system require permits from Public Works.
Unauthorized grading that causes flooding of adjacent properties may result in Code Enforcement citations, mandatory corrective action, and civil liability. Grading within SFWMD easements without approval may trigger enforcement actions and restoration requirements.
Doral, FL
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Doral, FL
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