A grading permit may be required depending on the scope of the project. Permits are almost always required in the Hillside Grading Area. Please contact the Grading Division.
Affordable Housing
Do I need a soils report for a subdivision?
A soils/geology report for a subdivision is generally required in hillside areas and seismic hazard zones. See Information Bulletin P/BC 2107-132.
Do you review methane reports?
No. Methane reports are reviewed by the building plan checker. See Chapter 71 of the LABC.
How can I find out if my property is in a seismic hazard zone?
Check the Parcel Profile Report available on the Department’s website. NavigateLA also shows the extent of seismic hazard zones colored in the map.
How do I find out if a previous soils/geology report was submitted for my property?
Check the “Search Online Building Records” on the Department’s website. Previous soils/geology reports can also be obtained at the Records Section locations at 201 N. Figueroa Street, Rm.
How do I obtain previous soils/geology reports?
Check the “Search Online Building Records” on the Department’s web site. Previous soils/geology reports can also be obtained at the Records Section locations at 201 N. Figueroa Street, Rm.
How do I submit a report to the Grading Division?
Reports must be submitted in person at any construction services center.
How long is a soils/geology report good for?
In general, four years, unless there is a change in the scope of work or adoption of a new LABC.
How long will it take to get my report reviewed?
Regular: 5 to 6 weeks. Expedite: 4 to 5 weeks.
How much does it cost to have a report reviewed by the Grading Division?
Please refer to Department fee schedule online for general fees. Final fees to be determined at the time of submittal.
How the amount of the bond is calculated?
The bond is calculated based on the earthwork quantity, cost of drainage devices, and/or retaining walls per LABC 7006.5.7
What do I do if a slope failure occurs on my property or my neighbor's?
Contact the Training and Emergency Management Division (TEMD) at 311 or (213) 482-6788.
What do I do if my report is not approved?
Contact your consultant to provide a formal itemized response to the Department correction letter. Note: Additional Department fees are required for review.
What is required to develop in a seismic hazard zone?
Please refer to Information Bulletins P/BC 2014-044 and
What is the "Hillside Grading Area"?
Lands identified to be located within a Hillside Area based on the latest BOE Basic Grid Map A-13372, per Section 91.7003 of the Building Code. This map is on file in the official City documents located in the Office of the City Clerk in the Council File No. 121222 Sup. #1.
What is the "Hillside Ordinance Area"?
Land designated as “Hillside Area” on the Department of City Planning Hillside Area Map (12.21A.17), which can be viewed on NavigateLA. The area where construction projects are subject to the “Baseline Hillside Ordinance."
What is the Department procedure to obtain a drainage easement through a neighbor's lot?
Please see Information Bulletin P/BC 2014-057 for details.
When do I need a soils report?
A soils report is needed for construction on a slope steeper than 3:1 (Horizontal:Vertical), excavations removing lateral support, when a structure cannot be designed per building code values, and/or for structures which do not conform to chapter 18 of the 2014 LABC.