Frequently Asked Questions

A grading permit is required in advance of grading for all projects including: 1) Excavations 2-feet or greater with slopes steeper than 2:1, 2) Moving 50 cubic yards or more, 3) changing drainage patterns, and 4) within open space or easement areas. For minor projects on developed land meeting certain conditions there are grading permit exceptions [link to FAQ]. Retaining walls, pools and patio covers require Building Permits. 

You will need to hire a qualified professional engineer to prepare a grading plan for your project.  Please refer to the Grading Submittal Checklist for a list of requirements. Projects that clear vegetation or are within an archeological sensitive area as shown the City GIS map will require an Administrative Clearing Permit.

All applications are received through the City’s online portal. The cost of the plan review is based on the Master Fee Schedule.

The first plan review is typically completed in 4-weeks with subsequent reviews ranging from 2-weeks to 4-weeks.  The quality of the plan submittal and your engineer’s responsiveness to comments will determine how quickly a grading plan can be approved. Generally, three review cycles are required.

Once grading plans are approved, securities will need to be posted and inspection fees paid as shown on Master Fee Schedule. 

Provide the print copies then schedule preconstruction meeting.

Projects are required to comply with the City Municipal Code, City Design Standards, applicable Specific Plans, and Storm Water Quality Management Plan requirements.  Links to the reference documents, title block templates, and forms are available on the Land Development Engineering page.

If you have questions about grading permits, please contact Land Development Engineering Division at 858-668-4655.

On a developed parcel of land, excavation or fill for the purposes of minor landscaping improvements or recreational purposes may be completed without a permit under these conditions:

1. 10 feet away from any structure and three feet from any property line, unless entirely contained by a permitted retaining wall; and
2. Does not exceed 250 cubic yards of total excavation and fill; and
3. Does not exceed three vertical feet in depth; and
4. Does not create a cut or fill slope greater than five feet in height nor a slope steeper than three horizontal to one vertical (3:1); and
5. Does not divert, concentrate or otherwise alter surface or subsurface drainage as it leaves or enters adjacent properties; and
6. Outside of any open space, utility, access or other easement area and not in an area where any structure is planned, including patios, swimming pools and accessory structures.