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Yorba Linda · Building on your lot

Grading and erosion control in Yorba Linda

Yorba Linda's own rules on grading and erosion control, with the code text for every value.

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Each rule below links to the section of the Yorba Linda Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What Yorba Linda's code says

Yorba Linda code What Yorba Linda's code adds
When a grading permit is needed
  • A grading permit may be required to stockpile or remove more than 50 cubic yards of extra dirt.
    § 15.40.230 · code text
    A grading permit may be required for the stockpiling or removal of excess dirt in excess of fifty cubic yards.
Grading without a permit
  • No permit for 50 cubic yards or less of digging or fill per lot within depth, slope and drainage limits.
    Applies: Digging under 2 feet, or no slope over 5 feet and steeper than 2:1; fill under 3 feet, not supporting structures; City Official may grant.
    § 15.40.290 · code text
    An excavation which does not exceed fifty cubic yards on any one lot and which is less than two feet in depth, or which does not create a cut slope greater than five feet in height and steeper than two horizontal to one vertical;
  • No permit for basement and footing digs under a valid building permit, or pool or well digs.
    Applies: The City Official may grant it; not fill made from the dig, or digs over 5 feet deep left unsupported.
    § 15.40.290 · code text
    An excavation below finished grade for basements and footings of a building, retaining wall or other structure authorized by a valid building permit.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

What are the grading rules in Yorba Linda?

Yorba Linda's code: A grading permit may be required to stockpile or remove more than 50 cubic yards of extra dirt. (§ 15.40.230); No permit for 50 cubic yards or less of digging or fill per lot within depth, slope and drainage limits. (Digging under 2 feet, or no slope over 5 feet and steeper than 2:1; fill under 3 feet, not supporting structures; City Official may grant.) (§ 15.40.290).

General information, not legal advice.

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