Sacramento regulates grading and drainage under City Code Title 15 and the City's Design and Procedures Manual. Grading permits are required for projects involving significant earthwork, and all development must maintain proper drainage to prevent flooding of adjacent properties. The City requires drainage studies for projects that alter existing drainage patterns or increase impervious surface area.
Grading permits are required for excavation or fill exceeding specified thresholds. Projects must demonstrate that post-development drainage does not adversely affect neighboring properties. The City's Department of Utilities reviews drainage plans for compliance with the Combined Sewer System or the separate storm drain system depending on location. In areas served by the combined sewer system (primarily older central city neighborhoods), drainage requirements differ from areas served by the separated storm drain system.
Grading without a permit can result in stop-work orders, fines, and required restoration of the site. Causing drainage problems on neighboring properties may result in code enforcement action and civil liability.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Sacramento County.
See how other cities in Sacramento County handle grading & drainage.
See how Sacramento's grading & drainage rules stack up against other locations.
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