Lot grading in residential areas
When is lot grading required?
Strathcona County requires all residential sites zoned as single detached or semi-detached housing serviced by public sanitary sewer systems to conform to approved surface drainage plans.
What is the purpose of lot grading?
- To ensure surface drainage away from structures;
- To provide for controlled surface drainage discharge points and rate of flow entering the public roads and storm sewer system;
- To minimize the amount of infiltration from surface run-off entering the sanitary sewage system
Who is responsible for what?
Rough Grade Stage
The rough grade stage is the responsibility of the builder.
The rough grade stage is the responsibility of the builder.
The lot is graded by the builder (contractor) to County requirements. Upon completion of the grading, the builder contacts an accredited Alberta Land Surveyor to survey the site and prepare and certify the rough grade certificate. Two original copies of the rough grade certificate are submitted to the County for approval.
Upon receipt of the rough grade certificate an inspection is conducted by the County's Lot Grading Inspector. If the inspection passes, a copy of the stamped approved grading certificate is sent to the builder or applicant.
If the grading does not pass inspection, the appliant is notified of the deficiences (a new survey may be required) and a re-inspection must be scheduled once the deficiencies have been corrected.
Final Grade Stage
Final grade stage is the responsibility of the homeowner.
Once the topsoil has been placed and grading completed (according to the applicable lot-grading guidelines), the homeowner must contact an accredited Alberta Land Surveyor to provide an as-built survey (or final lot grading certificate). Once completed, two original copies must be submitted to the County for approval.
Once received, a lot grading inspection is conducted by the County's Lot Grading Inspector.
If the grading passes inspection, approved stamped copies of the grading certificate are sent to the homeowner (or the applicant).
The homeowner is then able to proceed with landscaping the property.
If the inspection fails, the homeowner is notified of the deficiencies (a new survey may be required) and a re-inspection can be scheduled upon correction of the deficiences.
Definitions
- Lot grading is the shaping or sloping of the ground to control and direct the surface water run-off to desired discharge points. Grade can also refer to the slope of land, depending on its context.
- Drainage swales are shallow side sloped channels for the conveyance of surface run-off. Each property should contain a minimum of 150 mm of unobstructed width along the common property line for a drainage swale.
- Splash pads/downspouts are required to convey roof leader and sump pump discharge away from the foundation walls to help prevent infiltration and erosion.
Is the process different in the rural area?
Yes. The process is dependant on the size of your property and the level of on-site services (sewer/water). We ask that you contact Planning & Development Services to obtain information on the requirements for your specific project.
If your grading project (urban or rural) involves hauling on County roads, contact our Transportation & Agriculture Services group to obtain information on road use agreements and/or permitting requirements at 780-417-7100.
Further information
780-464-8080
PlanningandDevelopment@strathcona.ab.ca
Last updated: Thursday, December 01, 2011
Page ID: 2904