Grading
Grading
The City of Laguna Niguel issues grading permits for slope repairs, pool and spa demolition, and pavement in excess of 3,000 square feet. Preliminary grading permits allow for earthwork and storm drain construction only, while precise grading permits are for building pad certification and any on-grade construction as indicated above. A preliminary grading permit is not needed for every project, and no building permits can be issued until a preliminary grading permit is superseded by a Precise Grading Permit. The first plan check requires three weeks; subsequent submissions require two weeks.
Water Quality Management
Construction projects are required to comply with two interrelated sets of municipal directives with respect to water quality management: (1) compliance with applicable discharge prohibition requirements set forth in the Water Quality Ordinance to prevent unauthorized non-stormwater discharges, and (2) implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) to the maximum extent practicable, in accordance with the County Drainage Area Management Plan (DAMP) and local agency requirements, to reduce contaminants in stormwater discharges.