Grading and drainage in Jacksonville is regulated under the stormwater management provisions of Ch. 754 and the floodplain management ordinance Ch. 652. Development must not increase stormwater runoff to adjacent properties or the municipal storm sewer system beyond pre-development levels. The city requires stormwater management plans for new development and significant land disturbance. Residential grading must ensure positive drainage away from structures per the Florida Building Code.
Jacksonville's grading and drainage ordinance regulates earth-moving activities to prevent flooding, erosion, and drainage conflicts. Grading permits are required when: filling or excavating more than 50 cubic yards of earth, altering natural drainage patterns, creating slopes steeper than 2:1, or grading within setbacks or easements. Permitted projects must maintain positive drainage away from structures and ensure stormwater does not concentrate onto neighboring properties. Swales, French drains, or storm drains may be required. Lot-to-lot drainage disputes are a common enforcement issue — property owners who redirect stormwater onto neighbors face corrective orders. Final grading must establish positive drainage with a minimum 2% slope away from foundations for at least 10 feet. Florida's tropical/subtropical climate and water management districts regulate usage issues affect drainage design standards.
Unpermitted grading: $250–$1,000 fine plus restoration order. Directing stormwater onto neighbors: $100–$500 fine and mandatory correction. Fill over utilities or easements: immediate removal order.
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