Palm Springs requires a grading permit for excavation or fill over 50 cubic yards, slopes over 5 feet high, or any work in a floodplain. Drainage must be directed to approved outlets without impacting neighbors. The Engineering Division reviews plans under CBC Appendix J and city standards.
Grading permits in Palm Springs follow California Building Code Appendix J as adopted by PSMC Title 8. Thresholds triggering a permit include: excavation or fill exceeding 50 cubic yards, cut or fill slopes taller than 5 feet, any grading in a Special Flood Hazard Area or hillside, and any work that alters drainage patterns affecting neighboring properties. Engineered plans stamped by a California-licensed civil engineer are required for larger projects and typically include a grading plan, drainage plan, erosion control plan, and SWPPP if over one acre. Drainage must be conveyed to a street, approved storm drain, or on-site retention basin without concentrating flow onto adjacent lots. Hillside grading (common in Southridge and Araby Cove) triggers additional geotechnical reports and slope stability analyses. The Engineering Division inspects pad certifications, compaction tests, and final drainage before signing off. Permit fees scale with cubic yardage. Unpermitted grading can result in stop-work orders, double fees, and restoration requirements.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Palm Springs code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Riverside County.
See how other cities in Riverside County handle grading & drainage.
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