Grade for drainage and the finished site

A grading plan should start with current and planned grades, drainage, building or pavement limits, access, utility grades, and what the next crew needs. “Level the lot” does not say where water should go or how much dirt must move.

Share the current site, grading, drainage, foundation, or septic plans. If the design is not done, list the survey details and starting facts used for the estimate.

Measure the work area and check who handles permits

The State Water Board counts clearing, grading, stockpiles, and digging as building activity. A permit often applies when work disturbs one acre or more. It may also apply to a smaller site in a larger plan that totals at least one acre.

Local approval may also be needed for grading, building, road access, flood areas, or drainage. For example, Oakdale has a grading permit through Public Services. Ask the city or county which permits and soil-protection plans the property needs.

  • Current survey and planned grades
  • Total work area, including stockpiles and access routes
  • Plans for cuts, fill, dirt brought in or hauled out, and bad soil
  • Drainage outlets, neighboring property, and protected areas
  • Controls for soil loss, mud, dust, and dirt on roads
  • Rules for tests, packed soil, inspections, and the final site

Plan for site conditions that change the work

Moisture, weather, ground water, hard rock, soft soil, long haul routes, narrow access, and busy sites can change the work. The proposal should say what is included and how the team will handle new site conditions.

Flores can review clearing, digging, grading, access, and pad prep as one job. Send the address, current plans, photos, soil details, and target schedule to start.

Project rules vary.

Check permit, utility, safety, engineering, and inspection rules with the right agencies and trained experts.

Research used for this guide

Official sources

These links explain the state and local rules used in this guide. Check the rules for your property before work begins. Each source opens in a new tab so you can keep this guide open.