Santa Clara requires grading permits for moving 50+ cubic yards of earth, with drainage plans demonstrating runoff does not impact neighbors or city infrastructure.
Santa Clara Building Division enforces California Building Code Appendix J grading requirements through SCCC Title 17. Grading permits are required for excavation or fill over 50 cubic yards, any grading that alters drainage patterns, or work on slopes steeper than 3:1. Drainage plans must show how stormwater flows across the site and discharges without concentrating onto adjacent properties, which could create a private nuisance under common law. Retaining walls over 4 feet measured from bottom of footing require structural permits and engineered plans. All grading must incorporate erosion and sediment controls per the stormwater permit. Final grading inspection is required before building final approval.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Santa Clara, CA
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