A geology report is needed for development within an Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone or a Preliminary Fault Rupture Study Area or for new onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS).A combined report is needed for projects in a Hillside Grading Area or where bedrock is encountered in addition
When do I need to file for a 3-day notification for excavation adjacent to a neighbor's property?
Please see Information Bulletin P/BC 2014-060 for a detailed explanation.
When do I need to post a grading bond?
A grading bond is required for projects with over 250 CY of cut or fill in a Hillside Grading Area.
When grading plans are reviewed by regular plan check or grading plan check?
A building plan checker reviews most grading plans. The grading plan checker will review grading plans for grading work in conjunction with an approved subdivision map or to issue grading permits to correct a hazardous soil condition per LABC 7005.7.
When will my bond be exonerated?
The district grading inspector will clear the release of the bond upon completion of the work. Financial Services will release the bond amount.
Where do I apply for a GPI?
A grading pre-inspection (GPI) can be applied for at the construction services center.
Where do I submit a grading plan?
Grading plans are submitted to the building plan checker at the construction services center.
Which are the requirement in a soils, geology or combined soils and geology report?
The minimum content required in a report is outlined in Information Bulletins P/BC 2014-113 and
Who determines the amount of the bond?
The Building Plan Checker determines the amount of the bond.
Who releases my bond?
The district grading inspector will clear the release of the bond upon completion of the work. Financial Services will release the bond amount.
Why can't I infiltrate stormwater on my property?
Sites in most hillside areas, within potentially liquefiable zones, where infiltration rates are too low, or where the earth materials exhibit adverse conditions when saturated (e.g., expansive or hydro collapsible soils) are generally not allowed to infiltrate stormwater.
Why do I need a fault investigation?
A fault investigation is required if the project is located within an Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone or a Preliminary Fault Rupture Study Area to preclude construction for human occupancy from being placed on an active fault.
Why must I have a sump pump with a backup generator?
The Department requires the use of a back-up generator for sloping properties to maintain proper drainage and reduce the potential for erosion and sloughing in the event of a power failure.
Why must I have a sump pump?
The Department requires the use of a sump pump when concentrated drainage cannot be directed to an approved location via gravity.
Can the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure provided at a disabled parking stall be used to satisfy the Green Building requirements?
No, EV charging stalls are required to be unrestricted and available for all users. However, if the EV charging infrastructure is located in a manner where it can facilitate both spaces, then it will be acceptable.
Does the Green code apply to my project?
Green Building code is applicable to the following projects:
- New buildings
- Additions of any size
- Alter/Repair with a valuation of $200,000 or more
- Alterations to residential buildings that result in increase in conditioned volume.
Does the number of stories of a building affect the designation of a building from a residential to a non-residential project?
No, the number of stories does not change the requirements of a residential or non-residential use.
How can I obtain Green Building approval?
Contact the designated plan checker on your project to make an appointment for verification of corrections. Contact information is provided on the correction sheet. Approval for Green Building requirements will be provided after verification of all corrections is completed.
How do I submit plans for Green Building Plan Check?
During the regular plan check submittal process, an additional set of plans is collected and routed for Green Building section for review and approval process, if required.
Is a hotel a residential or non-residential project?
Guest rooms in a hotel for sleeping purposes and any related use is considered a residential project.