El Paso requires grading permits for land disturbance activities through Title 18 and the city engineering department. The city's desert topography with the Franklin Mountains creates steep drainage patterns that require careful grading design. All development must demonstrate that post-construction drainage does not adversely affect neighboring properties. Drainage reports prepared by a licensed professional engineer are required for subdivision and site development.
Grading permits require submission of a drainage report, grading plan, and erosion control plan. Cut and fill operations must maintain slope stability. The city prohibits diverting stormwater onto adjacent properties without easements. Retaining walls over four feet require engineering design and separate permits.
Grading without a permit can result in stop-work orders and fines. Causing drainage damage to neighboring properties may result in code enforcement action and civil liability.
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See how El Paso's grading & drainage rules stack up against other locations.
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