Grading Permits

Prior to commencement of most construction/grading related work within private development in the City limits, the permittee shall obtain a grading permit (PDF) from the Department of Public Works.

Purpose

A grading permit is a contract between the City of Temecula and the permittee that defines the terms and conditions under which the permittee is granted permission to perform specific grading-related activities and assures that the work will be performed to meet City and engineering standards.

Work Requiring Grading Permits

Construction/grading (to include land clearing) within private development may trigger the need for a grading permit. Typical types of work covered under a grading permit include:
  • Administrative Clearing
  • Borrow Site/Stockpiling
  • Erosion and Sediment Control
  • Mass, Rough and Precise Grading for Commercial, Industrial, Tract Subdivision Developments as well as Single Family Residential Lots
  • Paving/Watercourse Alterations
  • Rock Blasting
Note that there is only one grading permit processed per project site. The City Engineer shall modify the permit accordingly, as the work progresses from a specific type of grading to another (i.e., from mass to rough to precise grading, etc.).

Submittal Requirements

In addition to the permit application, other items are required to be submitted to obtain a grading permit. More information can be found in the Land Development Submittal Requirements (PDF) document.

Fee Schedule

  • A grading permit is typically valid for 6 months from the date of issuance.
  • If an extension of the permit is needed, it must be requested before the permit expires.
  • All fees associated with initial permit issuance and permit extensions shall be subjected to a “permit issuance” fee in accordance with the City’s current Fee Schedule (PDF).

Inspections

The City Engineer shall inspect all work associated with grading permits to ensure compliance with Chapter 18 of the Temecula Municipal Code, the Engineering and Construction Manual and all applicable City ordinances, standard notes, policies and procedures.