Grading of 50 cubic yards or more requires a grading permit in Sunnyvale under SMC Title 16. Lot drainage must direct water away from structures and neighbors without causing nuisance.
Sunnyvale adopts the California Building Code and local grading standards in SMC Title 16. Projects moving 50 cubic yards or more of earth, cutting slopes over 5 feet, or altering drainage patterns require a grading permit reviewed by Public Works and Building Safety. Plans must show existing and proposed contours, stormwater routing, and erosion controls. Lot drainage must flow toward the public street or approved drainage facility, not onto neighboring properties; diverting water onto an adjacent parcel is a civil nuisance and a code violation. Hillside or sensitive sites may require geotechnical reports and special slope stability review. Post-construction bioretention areas may be required to meet LID standards. Homeowner projects such as raised beds or small retaining walls under 4 feet tall generally do not need a grading permit but must comply with drainage rules.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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