Scottsdale regulates grading and drainage through the Design Standards and Policies Manual (DSPM) Chapter 4 and Revised Code Chapter 37. Development must maintain pre-development drainage patterns. The ESLO overlay imposes additional grading restrictions to protect the desert environment.
Scottsdale's grading and drainage regulations require that runoff from all storms enter and exit a property after development in substantially the same manner as under pre-development conditions. The DSPM Chapter 4 (Grading and Drainage) establishes standards for earthwork, grading permits, erosion control, and drainage design. A grading permit is required for earthwork exceeding 50 cubic yards or disturbing natural terrain. In ESLO areas, grading is restricted to preserve natural desert landforms and washes. Cut and fill slopes must be revegetated with native plants. Drainage easements are required for all natural and man-made drainage ways with a 100-year peak flow of 50 CFS or greater in ESLO areas, or 25 CFS in non-ESLO areas. All drainage improvements must be designed by a licensed Arizona civil engineer.
Grading without a permit, altering natural drainage patterns, or disturbing protected desert areas may result in stop-work orders, fines up to $10,000, and required restoration.
Scottsdale, AZ
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
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