Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question:
does a person need an excavation permit for dumping dirt in his yard?

Answer:
The County of Los Angeles Building Code does not require a grading permit under the following conditions:

· An excavation that (a) is less than 2 feet (610 mm) in depth or (b) does not create a cut slope greater than 5 feet (1524 mm) in height and steeper than 1 unit vertical in 2 units horizontal (50% slope) and does not exceed 50 cubic yards (38.3M3).
· A fill not intended to support structures and which does not obstruct a drainage course if such fill (a) is placed on natural grade that has a slope not steeper than five horizontal to one vertical and is less than 1 foot (305 mm) deep, or (b) is less than 3 feet (914 mm) in depth at its deepest point, measured vertically upward from natural grade to the surface of the fill, and does not exceed 50 cubic yards (38.2 m3), or (c) does not exceed 20 cubic yards (15.3 m3) on any one lot.

Not knowing the extent of the proposed fill it is difficult to determine if a grading permit is required. Therefore, it is recommended you contact the local Building and Safety District Office and discuss your project in more detail with the Regional Drainage and Grading Engineer.



Links:
  Building and Safety District Offices
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