When is lot grading required?

Strathcona County requires all residential sites zoned as single dwelling, semi-detached or townhouse building to conform to their approved surface drainage plan through review and approval of a required Lot Grading Certificate.

What is the purpose of lot grading?

• To direct surface runoff away from structures
• To prevent runoff water from ponding within your property, which has the potential to cause nuisance/damage
• To control surface drainage discharge points and prevent nuisance/damage to neighbouring land
• To ensure continuity of drainage between properties and municipal lands
• To manage surface runoff in accordance with an approved, engineered lot grading plan

Printable brochure - single dwelling and semi detached lot grading (excluding for zero lot lines) (323.4 KB)

Who is responsible for what?

Stage One - Rough Grade

The Rough Grade stage is the responsibility of the builder.

The first stage of the lot grading process is a Rough Grade approval. Obtaining this approval is typically the responsibility of the home builder. Once the approval is obtained, you should receive a copy of the Rough Grade Certificate from your home builder. 

Stage Two - Final Grade

Final Grade stage is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Final Grade approval is the responsibility of the homeowner and must be submitted no later than one year after rough grade approval is issued.

Final Grade Approval Process

1. Confirm with your home builder that Rough Grade approval was given. Request a copy. 
    
2. Rough Grade generally has an allowance of 10-20 cm (4-8") from base to Final Grade elevation. Topsoil or clay can now be added, spread out and compacted, ready for sod, rock, mulch, etc. The ground elevation of the topsoil (for sod) and clay (for rock or mulch) should be continuous, including at any transition of material, to avoid pooling of water in these areas (i.e the top of topsoil should be level with the top of compacted clay/fabric).
    

3. Prior to placement of sod, rock or mulch, etc., call a surveyor to resurvey the property for a Final Grade Certificate. Your ground elevations should now be within 5 cm (2”) of the final design elevations for your lot, but not any higher than the final design elevation. The overall slope along your property line must also be a minimum of 2% with no areas shallower than 1.5%. In most cases, the surveyor will email the County the Final Grade Certificate within 5-7 working days, though it could take up to two weeks during peak building season. If you receive the originals, please mail or drop off two original copies to our Planning and Development Services.

4. Once the Final Grade Certificate is received, it will be reviewed and a final inspection will be scheduled for your property (typically within 1 to 3 days, workload and weather permitting). You do not need to be present for the inspection.

5. If your property passes inspection, a stamped approved copy of the Final Grade Certificate and inspection report will be mailed to you.

6. If your property fails inspection, it will be noted on the Lot Grading Inspection Report. Deficiencies must be corrected and you must contact our office to arrange another inspection.

Please note: If the Final Grade Approval process is not initiated by the homeowner within one year after rough grade approval, fines starting at $300 could be imposed on the homeowner.

Definitions

• Lot grading is the shaping or sloping of the ground to control and direct surface water runoff to desired discharge points. Grade can also refer to the slope of the land.
• Side yard drainage swales are shallow, v-shaped, sloped channels for the conveyance of surface runoff. Each property should contain a minimum of 300 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 dependent on the size of your property. We ask that you contact Planning & Development Services to obtain information on the requirements for your specific project.

Printable brochure - Living by an urban lake

Hauling on County roads

If your grading project (urban or rural) involves hauling on County roads, contact our Transportation Engineering and Operations group to obtain information on road use agreements and/or permitting requirements at 780-417-7100.

More information: