HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES - 09211999 - C52 TO: BOARD OF SUPERVISORS Cor r
Caste
FROM: CARLOS SALTODANO, DIRECTOR
BUILDING INSPECTION DEPARTMENT 1��1'I �`
DATE: September 21, 1999
SUBJECT, ADOPTION OF AMENDMENTS TO THE CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
GRADING ORDINANCE
SPECIFIC REQUEST(S)OR RECOMMENDATION(S)&BACKGROUND ND JUSTIFICATION
RECOMMENDATIONS
ENDATIONS
INTRODUCE the attached ordinance adopting changes to the grading ordinance,
WAIVE reading, and SET October 12, 1999 at 9:00 a.m. for hearing and adoption.
FISCAL IMPACT
None.
BACKGROUND/REASONS FOR RECOMMENDATIONS
On June 8, 1999 the Board adopted the 1997 Uniform Building Codes and modified
Title 7 of the Contra Costa County Ordinance. The changes to the grading ordinance
are further amendments to Title 7 of the Contra Costa County Ordinance Code.
Changes to the grading ordinance are necessary in order to conform to current
standards from the California State Regional Vater Quality (Control Board's
requirements to eliminate pollution (Silts) into protected waterways. These
requirements are mandated by the Federal Clean Vater Act. The changes also
incorporate the Federal standards for providing metric measurements.
CONTINUED ON ATTACHMENT: X YES SIGNATURE
RECOMMENDATION OF COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR �RECO IVIMENDA` IOON OF BOARD COMMITTEE
APPROVE OTHER
ACTION OF BOARD ON_ xdfr3�C�s F. k&y -1 APPROVED AS RECOMMENDED OTHER
VOTE OF SUPERVISORS I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS IS A TRUE
7 UNANIMOUS(ABSENT I AND CORRECT COPY OF AN ACTION TAKEN
AYES: NOES: AND ENTERED ON THE MINUTES OF THE
ABSENT: ABSTAIN: BOARD OF SUPERVISORS ON THE DATE
SHOWN.
Contact: Carus Baltodano(9253335-1108)
ATTEsTEC3: �°�'�?�LN!'?ri"rd• o': •f
cc: County Administrator Phil Batchelor,Cleric of the Board of Supervisors
County Counsel and County Administrator
Community Development
Pubic Works
and'�'rading.ard.9-21-99
Adoption of Amendments to the Contra Costa County Grading Ordinance
September 21, 1999
Page Two
The intent of some of the amendments is to incorporate standardized inspection
procedures similar to cities within the County.
An additional charge is being proposed to increase the penalty fee in order to
recapture the staff costs associated with enforcement of the grading ordinance in
cases where staff'has issued a "Notice to Cease Work? or"Notice to Comply". The
increase will be similar to the fees charged in the Branding Code for working without
a permit. The amendments have been reviewed with an eye to providing close
coordination with Chapter 13 (Foundation and Retaining Walls) of the Uniform
Building Code, 1997 Edition.
Staff has reviewed the applicability of the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) and has determined that the adoption of the ordinance is not subject to
CEQA under Section 15061(b)(3) of the Mate LECA guidelines. In adoption of the
grading ordinance it can seen with certainty that the review of grading plans will not
significantly affect the environment.
CONSEQUENCES OF NEGATIVE ACTION
The goal of staff has been to develop one updated Title 7 for the Contra Costa
County ordinance code. if action is not taken to have one integrated Title 7
inconsistencies between the existing grading ordinance and the recently adopted
Uniform Building Code will remain. This may lead to different staff interpretations
and general confusion to the public,
__
(Title 7- GRADING)
The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors ordains as follows (omitting the parenthetical
footnotes from the official text of the enacted or amended provisions of the County Ordinance
Code): [Gov. C. § 25120]
SECTION 1. SUMMARY. This ordinance makes changes to the grading ordinance to conform
to current standards and to rename the Director of Building Inspection as the County wilding
Official. [§ 25129].
SECTION 11. Section 716-2.408 of the County Ordinance Code is amended,to read:
716-2.408 Building Official. The County Building Official is the Director of the
Building Inspection Department or his or her duly authorized deputy charged with enforcement
of this division. (Orris. 99-_§_: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
SECTION III. Section. 716-2.804 of the County Ordinance Code is amended to read:
716-2.804 Administration m Interpretation. The County Building Official is
authorized to issue bulletins to interpret or clarify the administrative and technical details of this
division. (Ards. 99-- § _____: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
ECTI N'IV. Article 716-2.1€1 of the County Ordinance Code is amended to read:
Article 716-2.10
Nuisance Abatement
71.5-2.1002 Nuisance abatement. Any excavation or fill which the County Building
Official finds is a menace to life, limb or property or adversely affects the safety,use or stability
of a public xray or drainage way or channel is declared to be a public nuisance,and in addition to
any other remedy available under the law, may be abated pursuant to Article 14-6.4. (Orris. 99-
§ 88-88 § 15, 69-59 § 1.)
ORDINANCE 99- 1
SECTION V. Article 716-4.2 of the County Ordinance Code is amended to read:
Article 716-4.2
Required
716-4.202 Required - Generally. (a) Except as specified in Sections 716-4.202
through 716-4.208,no person shall.grade without having a valid permit as provided in this
chapter.
(b) Notwithstanding the previsions of Section 716-4.208, a permit is required for all
subdivisions as defined in Title 9,and all other protects for which a governmental agency has
specified a permit as being required as a condition of approval.
(c) A separate permit is required for work on each site; unless the sites are contiguous
and the entire area is included in the plans accompanying the application.
(d) Grading permits for work on property on which a subdivision or development
requiring approval of a tentative map is proposed shall not be issued until reviewed by the public
works department for compliance with the requirements of Title 9.
(e) For grading permits involving one thousand cubic yards (764.5 cubic meters)or more
of material not required as part of other entitlement permit:
(1) Notice. Before the building inspection department decides any application
pursuant to this article, the building inspection department shall snail or deliver notice of
intent to decide the application pursuant to the notice provisions of Section 26-2.2004.
The notice shall state the last day to request a public hearing on the application(which
shall be not less than tern days after date of mailing or delivery), the general nature of the
application, and the street address, if any, of the property involved or its legal or
boundary description if it has no street address.
(2) Hearing required. If, within ten calendar days after mailing or delivery of the
notice of intent, a written request for public hearing is filed with the building inspection
department, it shall schedule a public bearing before the zoning administrator on the
application in accordance with applicable provisions of Chapter 26-2 and snail notice
thereof to the applicant,the owner and any other persons requesting a hearing. (Ords. 99-
_ §®: 89-33 § 2, 69-59 § I (part).)
71.6-4.204 Required -Minor grading excepted. A grading permit is not required for:
(a) An excavation which meets all of the following requirements:
(1) Is less than five feet(1.524 meters) in depth below natural grade and is
adequately supported by a retaining structure designed and constructed in accordance
with Division 74;
(2) Does not create a cut slope greater than seven feet(2.134 meters)in height
and steeper than one vertical to two horizontal; and
(3) Does not exceed two hundred cubic yards (152.92 cubic meters).
(b) A fill which meets all of the following requirements:
(1) Is not intended to support structures;
(2) Does not obstruct a drainage course;
(3) Is placed on natural grade that has a slope not steeper than one vertical to five
ORDINANCE 99- 2
horizontal;
(4) Is less than gree feet(0.914 meters) in depth at its deepest point,measured
vertically upward from natural grade to the surface of the fill; and
(5) Does not exceed two hundred cubic yards(152.92 cubic meters).
(c) Minor land leveling for agricultural farming, if the average ground elevation is not
changed more than three feet(0.914 meters).
(d) Cemetery graves. (Ords. 99-_ § _: 86-25 § 2, 69-59 § I (part).)
716-4°246 Required -Types of grading excepted.' A grading permit is not
required for:
(a) An excavation below finished grade for basements and footing of structures
authorized by a valid building permit or trench excavations for the purpose of installing
underground utilities, if to be backfilled to natural grade;
(b) Mining,quarrying,excavating,processing,stockpiling of rock, sand, gravel,
aggregate,or clay, for which a permit has been granted by the planning agency, provided
that such operations do not affect the lateral support or increase the stresses in,or
pressure upon,any adjacent or contiguous property;
(c) Improvement of watercourses and construction of drainage, irrigation, and
domestic water supply systems and facilities performed under the supervision of the
flood control district, an agency of the federal or state government, a water or sanitation
district, or an irrigation or reclamation district;
(d) The construction, repair and maintenance of levees for river and local
drainage control perfor-ned by a governmental agency;
(e) Defuse and garbage disposal sites controlled by other regulations;
(f) Emergency work, as authorized by the County Building Official,necessary to
protect life, limb or property, or to maintain the safety,use or stability of a public way or
drainage way. (Ords. 99-^§ _: 69-59 § I (part).)
716-4.248 Required - Other exceptions. A grading permit is not rewired for:
(a) Excavations for installation of underground storage tanks where the capacity of the
tank does not exceed twenty thousand gallons(7115,700 Liters);
(b) Grading in an isolated, self-contained area if the County BuildingOfficial determines
that no danger to private or public property is likely to result from the grading operations;
(c) The structural section of subdivision streets in tracts for which subdivision
improvement plans have been reviewed by the public works department and the work is being
inspected by that department under'Title 9;
(d) Temporary local borrow pits for road materials and top soil for landscaping situated
within a larger ownership being subdivided into smaller tracts„ if the material is being used
entirely within the tracts being subdivided, and if the excavations do not endanger properties
under other ownerships or create a public nuisance or safety hazard. The lana shall be graded to
comply with this division on cessation of excavation within the pit areas;
0
For drswwge permits,sin Contra Costs County£3rd#Hance Cope Can.1010-9
ORDINANCE 99- 3
(e) 'Temporary stockpiles of top-sail materials rewired for landscaping lots being graded
in the immediate area for building purposes if the stockpiles are not placed within a public right-
of-way,do not obstruct drainage ways, are not subject to erosion which will cause silting
problems in drainage ways, do not endanger other properties, and do not create a public nuisance
or safety hazard., as determined by the building official. The land shall be graded to comply with.
this division after removal of stockpiles;
(f) Fire trails, and access roads to public utility gas and electric transmission lines.
(Ords. 99-_ § 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
SECTIO V1. Article 716-4.6 of the County Ordinance Code is amended to read:
Article 716-4.6
Plans and Specifications
716-4.642 Playas and specifications -Required. With each application for a permit and
when required by the County Building Official for enforcement of any provisions of this code,
four(4)sets of playas and specifications shall be submitted. Except as waived by the County
Building Official for small and unimportant work, the plans shall be prepared and signed by a
civil engineer or architect and shall contain the items set forth in Sections 716-4.6€14 - 716-4.608,
plus any additional material which the County wilding Official deems necessary to show
conformance of the proposed grading with the requirements of this division and other related
ordinances. (Orris. 99 § ____: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-446€14 Plans and specifications - Contents. Plans and specifications shall contain:
(a) A vicinity sketch or other means of adequately indicating the site location;
(b) Boundary lines of the site;
(c) Each lot or parcel of land into which the site is proposed to be divided;
(d) The location of any existing buildings or structures on the property where the work is
to be performed, and the location of any buildings or structures on adjacent land which may be
affected by the proposed work;
(e) Accurate contours showing the topography of the existing ground and
(f) Sufficient information to demonstrate compliance with chapters 816-4 and 816-6
(tree preservation). (Ords. 99-- §_: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-4.6€16 Plans and specifications- Requirements. Plans and specifications shall
also show:
(a) All of the proposed uses of the site and, if the site is to be divided,the proposed use
of each lot or parcel of land;
(b) Elevations, location,extent and slope of all proposed grading shown by contours,
cross-sections or other means and location of any rock disposal areas, buttress fills or other
special features to be included in the work;
(c) Detailed plans of all drainage systems and facilities, walls, cribbing, or other erosion
protection devices to be constructed in connection with, or as a part of the proposed work,
together with a snap showing the draining area and estimated runoff of the area served by any
ORMNANCE 99- 4
drainage systems or facilities. (Orris. 99-- § 69-59 § I (part), 1969.)
716-4.608 Plans and specifications-Statements required. Plans and specifications
shall also contain:
(a) a statement of the quantities of material to be excavated and/or filled and the amount
of such material to the imported to, or exported from the site;
(b) a statement of the estimated starting and completion dates for work covered by the
permit;
(c) A promise signed by the owner, or his authorized agent, that a civil engineer, soil
engineer and/or engineering geologist will be employed to give technical supervision or make
inspections of the work,whenever approval of the plans and issuance of the permit is to be based
on the condition that such professional person be so employed;
(d) Routes of travel to be used for trucks hauling material to and from the site;
(e) Hour and days of work approved by the County Building Official the Zoning
Administrator, or the appropriate governing body. (Ords. 99-- §_: 69-59 §', I (part), 1969.)
SECTION VII. article 716-4.8 of the County Ordinance Code is amended to read:
Article 716-4.8
Reports
716-4.802 Reports -Engineering geological. The County Building Official, may
require an engineering geologist's investigation and report, based on the most recent plan. The
engineering geological report shall include an adequate description of the geology of the site and
conclusions and recommendations regarding the effect of geologic conditions on the proposed
development. (Ords. 99-_§ _. 69-59 § I (part), 1969.)
716-4.804 Reports w Soil. (a) The County Building Official may require a sail
investigation and report based on the most recent plan.
(b) The preliminary sail report shall be prepared by a soil engineer based upon adequate
test borings or excavations. The report shall indicate the presence of critically expansive soils,
or other soils problems,which if not corrected would lead to defects in structures, buildings or
other improvements; and when it so indicates, it shall further report on an investigation of each
lot of the development including recommended corrective action which is likely to prevent such
defects or damage to each building, structure or improvement to be constructed.
(c)The preliminary soil report shall also contain:
(1) Reports on the suitability of the earth material for construction of stable
embankments and excavation slopes, including those necessary for any artificial or
natural drainage channels;
(2) Recommendations for construction procedures to obtain required stability;
(3) Maximum design velocities for any natural or artificial drainage channel; and
(4) Any other recommendations concerning slides,unstable soil conditions,
springs and seepage conditions,erosion control planting,or drainage facilities to enable
ORDINANCE 99- 5
proper development of the site.
(d) The preliminary soil report shall be prepared on eight and one-half inch(2 10
millimeters)by eleven inch(297 millimeters)paper of durable quality and any maps or
documents which accompany the report shall be of a convenient size and scale to fold to eight
and one-half inch(2 10 millimeters)by eleven inches(297 millimeters). (Ords. 99-- § _: 69-
59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-4.806 Reports -Review. All reports shall be subject to review by the County
Building Official. Supplemental reports and data may be required as he may deem necessary.
Recommendations included in the reports and approved by the building official shall be
incorporated in the development plan or specifications. (Orris. 99-_§_: 69-59 § 1 (part),
1969.)
SECTION VIII. Article 716-4.10 of the County Ordinance Code is°amended to read:
Article 716-4.10
Fees
716-4.10€12 Fees- Generally. The applicant shall pay the County Building Official the
fees set forth in sections 716-4.1006 - 716-4.1016 on applying for a permit. (Ords. 99-_ §
69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-4.1006 Fees-Permit. A permit fee is payable on issuance of a permit, in an
amount set by fee schedule adopted by the Board of supervisors. Additional permit fees may be
payable for retaining walls, cribbing,drainage facilities and structures, off-site transportation,
and hauling. (Ords. 99-- §_: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
71.6-4.1010 Fees m Permit transfer. A permit transfer fee often dollars ($10.00) is
payable when transfer of the permit is approved by the County Building Official (Orris. 99 §
69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
7164.1012 Fees-Penalty. Where work for which a permit is required by this division
is started or proceeded.with,prior to issuance of a permit, and a`Notice to Cease Work" or
"Notice to Comply"(NTC)has been issued, an additional fee equal to one hundred(100)percent
of the total permit fee, shall be paid at the time of application. (Ords. 99-- §_: 69-59 § I
(part), 1969.)
716-4.101.4 Fees- site investigation and evaluation. A site investigation and
evaluation fee of thirty ($30.€343) dollars shall be paid when a site investigation and evaluation is
requested prior to application for a grading and/or building permit. (Orris. 99'-_ § 83-59 § 1
(part), 1993.)
7164.1016 Fees-Refunds. (a) Filing fees,permit transfer fees,penalty fees and site
investigation fees shall not be refunded.
ORDINANCE 99- 6
(b) In cases of a reduction of planned work, the approval of an amended permit therefor
by the County Building Official,and satisfactory completion of the work covered by the permit,
the permittee may apply to the County Building Official within thirty days after issuance of the
certificate of completion for a refund of that portion of-the permit fee which would not have been
required for a permit based on the revised cost of the work in the amended permit. (Orris. 99--
§ _: 69-59 § I (part), 1969.)
SECTION IX. Article 716-4.12 of the County Ordinance Code is amended to,read:
Article 716-4.12
Performance Bond
716-4.1202 Performance bond - Required." If the County Building Official,
determines that the proposed work involves more than fifty thousand cubic yards(35,230 Cubic
Deters) and will not be completed before the rainfall months, or that the nature of the proposed
work is such that if left incomplete it will interfere with any natural or artificial drainage or will
endanger adjoining property or a street, or will create a hazard to human life or any property or
street, the owner shall furnish a bond, whether cash or corporate surety bond at his option (but
five hundred dollars($500.00) of every bond must be in cash), in a form approved by the County
Counsel or an instrument or instruments of credit approved by the County Counsel from one or
more financial institutions subject to regulation by the state or federal government pledging that
the funds necessary to meet the perfon-nance are on deposit and guaranteed for payment on
demand and agreeing that the funds designated by the instrument shall become trust Bands for the
purposes set forth in the instrument. (Orris. 99-_ § _: 69-59 § I (part), 1969.)
716•-4.1204 Performance bond -Amount. (a) The amount of bond shall be based
upon the number of cubic yards (cubic meters)of material in either excavation or fill, whichever
is greater, plus the cost of all drainage and other protective devices or work necessary to
eliminate geological hazards. That portion of the bond valuation based on the volume of
material in either excavation or fill shall be computed as set forth in the following table:
Ten thousand cubic yards(7646 cubic meters)or less, one hundred (100)percent of the
estimated cost of grading work;
Over ten thousand cubic yards(7546 cubic meters),one hundred (100)percent of the
cost of the first ten thousand cubic yards(7646 cubic meters), plus fifty(50)percent of that
portion in excess of ten thousand cubic yards(7646 cubic meters).
(b) When the rough grading has been completed in conformance with the requirements
of this code, the County Building Official may at his discretion consent to a proportionate
reduction of the bond to an amount estimated to be adequate to insure completion of tete grading
work., site development or planting remaining to be performed. The costs referred to in this
section shall be as estimated by the County Building Official. (Ords. 99-_§',_: 69-59 § I
(part), 1969.)
9
For ccunry ccunse?,sae COtltta Cess County Onliname Coda Nv.Ch.24-'2.
ORDENI ANCE 99- 7
7164.1206 Performance bond - Conditions. Every bond shall include the conditions
that the principal shall comply with all the provisions of this code,applicable laws and
regulations, .and all of the terns and conditions of the permit; but no extension','of time under the
permit shall release the surety upon the bond. (Ords. 99-_§ `: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969).
716-4.1208 Performance bond -Term. The terra of each band shall begin on the date
of its posting and shall end on the satisfactory completion of the terms and conditions of the
permit as evidenced by a certificate of completion,a copy of which will be sent to any surety on
request. (Ords. 99-- § _: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-4.1210 Performance bond - Notice of default. Whenever the County wilding
Official finds that a default has occurred in the performance of any tern or condition of any
permit, he shall give written notice thereof to the principal and surety on the bond, stating the
work to be done to achieve a safe and satisfactory condition, its estimated cost, and the period of
time he deems reasonable necessary to complete the work. (Ords. 99-_§ 69-59 § 1 (part),
1959.)
716-4.1212 Performance bond- Dirty of surety. After receiving a notice of default,
the surety shall have the rewired work performed within the time specified in'the notice. (Ords.
99-_§ _: 59-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-4.1214 Performance bond - Disposition of cash bond. if a cash band has been
posted and the notice of default has been given to the principal, and if the principal does not
comply with the notice within the specified time,the building official may use the deposited cash
to have the required work done,by contract or other means discretionary with',the County
Building Official the balance, if any, of the deposit shall be returned to the depositor when the
work is complete, after deducting the cost of the work. (Ords. 99— §_____.: 6959 § 1 (part),
1969<)
716-4.1216 Performance bond -Right of entry of County Building Official. (a) If
the County wilding Official finds that a default has occurred in the performance of any tern or
condition of the permit,the surety or the County Building Official or any person employed or
engaged on behalf of either shall have the right to go on the site to complete the required work or
make it safe.
(b) No person shall interfere with or obstruct the ingress or egress to or from the site by
any authorized representative or agent of any surety or of the county engaged in completing the
work required under the permit or in complying with the terms or conditions of the permit.
(Ords. 99m_ § _. 59-59 § 1 (part), 1959.)
SECTION X. Article 716-4.14 of the County Ordinance Code is amended to read:
Article 716-4.14
.Additional Requirements
ORDINANCE 99- 8
716-4.1442 plan checking. On receiving a properly completed application and
accompanying plans,other data, and twenty-five (25)percent of the total fees,the building
official shall review the application and plans and make the field review to determine site
conditions; and within ten (10)working days of such receipt he shall notify the applicant of the
approval or denial of the permit. (Orris. 99-_§_: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-4.1404 Limitation by application. The issuance of a permit shad constitute an
authorization to do only that work which is described or illustrated on the application for the
permit, or on the development plans and specifications approved by the County Building
Official. (Orris. 99m_ § _: 69-59 § 1 (part), 19+59.)
716-4.1406 Jurisdiction of other agenci
these indemnitee in any clam or action arising out of or as a result of the work done under this
permit.;; (Orris. 99--§_: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-4.1414 Approval of application. (a) Applications in which the design meets the
requirements of this division and the construction is deemed not detrimental to adjoining
properties or to the public interest shall be approved. When all fees and bonds are posted, a
permit shall be issued, and the approval and issuance shall be noted on the application and plans.
(b) Applications and plans found inadequate or not in compliance with these regulations
shall not be approved until revised to conform to the conditions and regulations prescribed under
this division.. (Ords. 99-_ § 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-4.1416 dejection of application.` (a) Hazards: The County Building Official shall
not issue a permit in any case where he finds that the work as proposed by the applicant is likely
to adversely affect the stability of adjoining property or result in the deposition of debris on any
public way or interfere with any existing drainage course or be in an area determined to be
subject to geological hazard. If it can be shown to the satisfaction of the County Building
Official that the hazard can be essentially eliminated by the construction of retaining structures,
buttress fills, drainage devices, or by other means, he may issue the permit with the condition
that such work be performed.
a
(b) Land Use: The County Building Official shall not issue a grading',permit for work
that will not comply with all provisions of Title 8 and any conditions imposed by the planning
agency on approval of the use.
(c) Existing Building or Zoning Code Violations: The County Building Official shall
not issue a permit under this title if any building or zoning code violations exist on the site.
(d) Rejection and Revisions: Rejection of the application or pians shall be considered a
denial of the permit. However,denial of a permit based on insufficient or inadequate plans shall
not preclude the applicant from submitting a revised application or revised plans in connection
with a pending application.
(e) Expiration and Renewal: Applications shall be considered pending until a grading
permit is issued,denied,or withdrawn,but an application shall expire ninety(90)days from the
date of its fling. An expired application may be renewed or a new application filed on payment
of a new ding fee. (Orris. 99 §_: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-4.1418 Consent of adjacent property owners. Whenever any portion of the work
requires entry onto adjacent property for any reason, the permit applicant shall obtain the written
consent of the adjacent property owner or his authorized representative, and shall file a copy of
the consent with the County Building Official before a permit for such work may be issued.
(Orris, 99-_§_: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-4.1420 Jobpians. When an application is approved and a permit issued,one(1) set
For appeals from ac?lan cf-he county Buitding Official,see
-�Contt:as Costa County Ordinance Code§79.8-2.?COB. +}
ORDENI AI�CE 77— }0
of plans and accompanying documents shall be clearly marked as reviewed and shall be returned
to the applicant. This set shall be kept available for reference at the job site during grading and
construction. The applicant may furnish additional sets of plans and documents for notation as
reviewed for return to the applicant for his use. (ards. 99-_ § _: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-4.1422 Posting required, The permit shall be posted securely in a conspicuous
location on the site. (Ords. 99-_§_: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
71.6-401424 Amendment. (a) All changes in the plans, grades, or extent of work shall
be submitted to the County Building Official for written approval and incorporation into the
permit, accompanied by any necessary fees, before any change in the approved work is begun.
The County Building Official may amend the permit to approve altered:plans,'or may deny
approval of the changes.
(b) Failure to obtain prior approval for any change in the work shall be cause for the
County Building Official to order suspension of all work until approval is obtained, and may
result in revocation of the permit if he deems the changes will increase the hazard to adjoining
properties or public reads, or otherwise be detrimental to public welfare. (Crds. 99-_ §_: 69-
59 § I (part), 1969.)
716-401426 Time extensions Before the expiration of a permit,the applicant may apply
for an extension of time in which to complete.the work. One(1)extension of time may be
granted by the County Building Official if in his judgment the public welfare is not impaired.
the extension shall be for a period the County Building Official deems appropriate, but not
longer than one(1)year. Denial of an extension shall not preclude the permittee from applying
for a new permit for the balance of the work, subject to conditions the building official deems
appropriate. The applicant shall file the surety's written consent to any extension of time before
approval is effective. (Orris. 99-_ §_: 69-59 § I (part), 1969.)
716-4.1428 Transfer. (a) Any transfer of a permit from the permittee to another person
shall be ineffective and void unless approved by the County Building Official.
(b) The transferee shall agree to comply with the requirements and conditions of the
original permit and to any modification thereof that may be required because of changes in the
condition of the site or change in plans since the permit was issued. The transferee shall furnish
the required sureties before the transfer of the permit will be approved, (Ordso 99-T §_: 69-59
§ I (part), 1969.)
716-4.1434 Suspension and revocation. (a) Grounds: A permit may be either
suspended or revoked if the County Building Official finds that:
(1) Conditions at the site vary appreciably from those shown and stated in the
application and development plans,
(2) Grading or construction does not conform to the approved',plans,grades or
other conditions of the permit;
(3) Cessation of work before completion has left the site in a condition hazardous
to the public or to the adjacent properties,and the permittee has not complied with
ORDINANCE 99- 11
reasonable requirements for completion of the work within the time specified in the
permit or an approved extension of time;
(4) The permittee does not comply with reasonable requirements to safeguard the
workmen,the public, or other persons acting in a lawful manner, during grading or
construction operations;
(5) In transporting materials or in the operation of equipment the applicant causes
materials or litter to encroach, obstruct, or be deposited on pavement or in drainage
channels within the public right-of-way, or causes unauthorized obstruction or diversion
of drainage channels within the site area;or
(6) Failure to have a qualified inspector working under the soil engineer on the
site during grading or construction when required.
(b) Procedure: The County wilding Official shall suspend or revoke a permit by
making a written finding and order; and he may seize the permit and/or make appropriate
notations on it of the suspension or revocation. Upon the written order of the wilding official,
any suspended permit may be either reinstated or revoked.
(c) Effect of Revocation: Whenever a permit has been revoked, work on the site shall
not begin again until a new application incorporating the necessary revisions in plans or methods
of operation required to fulfill the intent of this division and in accordance with these
regulations, has been approved by the County wilding Official. (Ords. 99 §_: 69-59 § 1
(part), 1969.)
716-4.1432 Notice of stop work. On issuance of a written notice to cease work., the
permittee shall immediately cause all grading and hauling connected therewith to cease until
written permission is received from the County Building Official allowing the permittee to
proceed after correcting the objectionable conditions or operations to eliminate the hazard or
encroachment and to prevent recurrence of the situation. (Orris. 99-_ § _: 69-59 § 1 (part),
1969.)
E TICK XI$, Chapter 716-6 of the County Ordinance Code is amended to read:
Chapter 716-6
Control of Work.
716-6.002 County inspection. The County Building Official and other authorized
county representatives may,with the consent of the owner or permittee or as allowed by the
terms of the permit, enter the site at all times to inspect its condition and the methods of
operation and to check or test any feature or operation involved in fulfilling the conditions of the
permit. (Ords. 99--§ 69-59 § l (part), 1969.)
716-6.004 Supervised or regular development work defined. All work involving a
fill intended to support structures, or grading where the County Building Official determines
special conditions or unusual construction hazards exist, shall be performed under the inspection
of civil engineer and/or soil engineer and shall be designated "supervised development work.."
ORDINANCE 99- 12
Work other than supervised development shall be designated"regular development work."
(Ords. 99 §_: 69-59 § I (part), 1969.)
716-6.406 Regular development requirements. (a) The County Building Official,
upon notification from the permittee or his agent, shall inspect the work at the following stages
of the work and shall either approve the portion then completed or shall notify the permittee or
his agent wherein it fails to comply with the requirements of this division:
(1) Initial: When the site has been cleared of vegetation and unapproved fill and
has been scarified„ benched or otherwise prepared and before any fill is placed,
(2) hough: When rough grading has been completed and approximate final
elevations have been established; drainage terraces, swales and other drainage devices
graded ready for paving; and beans installed at the top of slopes;
(3) Final': When work has been completed, all drainage devices,systems and
facilities installed and slope planting established.
(b) In addition to the called inspections specified above,the County Building Official
may:
(1) Make such other inspections as he deems necessary to determine that the
work is being performed in compliance with the requirements of this division; and
(2) Require investigations and reports by a soil engineer anchor engineering
geologist. (Ords. 99 § _: 69-59 § I (part), 1969.)
716-6.008 Supervised development requirements. (a) It shall be the responsibility of
the sail engineer and/or civil engineer to inspect the operations and provide qualified full-time
inspection,to assure compliance of the work with the approved development dans and with the
requirements of this division. Periodic progress report shall be submitted as required by the
building official and shall certify in writing to the satisfactory completion of work specified in
Section 716-6.006.
(b) The soil engineer shall submit compaction data and soil engineering
recommendations made during the development operation to the County Building Official.
(c) The civil engineer shall submit inspection reports regarding drainage facilities, lot
drainage, finish grades,to the building official.
(d) The engineering geologist shall submit inspection reports regarding geological
conditions to the building official. (Ords. 99-_§ _:69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-6.410 Notification of noncompliance. If the sail or civil engineer finds that the
work is not in conformance with this division or with the pians approved by the County Building
Official,or with good accepted practices, he shall immediately notify the permittee and the
building official in writing of the nonconformity and of the corrective measures to be taken.
(Orris. 99-T §`. 69-59 § I (part), 1969.)
716-6.012 Termination of services. If the civil engineer or the soil engineer or the
geologist is relieved of or otherwise terminates lois duties prior to completion of the work shown
on the grading plans,he shall report the fact in writing to the County Building Official within
forty-eight( S)hours with a report on the status of the work. (Ords.39-�§_: 69-59 § 1
ORDINANCE 99- 13
(part), 1969.)
716-6.014 Safety precautions. In addition to the requirements of the permit, the
permittee shall comply with all lays,ordinances and regulations of the state and county, and
regulations of the Mate Department of Industrial Relations, Industrial Accident Commission,
relating to the character of the work, equipment, and labor personnel involved',in the project.
(Ords. 99-_ §_: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-6.016 Cessation of work. If the applicant ceases work for any reason before the
work is completed,he shall take all necessary steps to leave the premises in a condition that will
be safe and will not cause damage to adjoining properties or to the public roads or to any natural
or artificial drainage facilities through erosion of materials, landslides,or other instability of
slopes and materials. (fords. 99-_ § _: 69-59 § I (part), 1969.)
716-6.018 Completion of work. The County Building Official shall issue a certificate
of completion upon satisfactory completion of work wader an approved permit. (Orris. 99-- §
69-59 § I (part), 1969.)
SECTION XII. Article 716-8.2 of the County Ordinance Code is amended to:read:
Article 716-8.2
Excavations
716-8.2€I2 Excavations -Maximum slope. Cuts shall not be steeper in slope than one
vertical to two horizontal unless the applicant furnishes a soil engineering or an engineering
geology report,or both,certifying Haat the site has been investigated and giving an opinion that a
cut at a steeper slope will be stable and not create a hazard to public or private property. The
County wilding Official may require the excavation to be made with a cut face flatter in slope
than one vertical to two horizontal if he finds it necessary for stability and safety. (fords. 99-_ §
69-59 § I (part), 1969.)
716-8.204 Excavations - Drainage terraces. Cut slopes exceeding forty(40) feet in
vertical height shall have drainage terraces not less than five(5) feet(1.524 meters) in width,
measured from the outer edge of the terrace to the invert of the drain,at vertical intervals not
exceeding thirty(3 0) feet(9.144 meters) except Haat where only one such terrace is required it
shall be located at raid-height. For cut slopes exceeding one hundred(100) feet(30.48 meters)
in vertical height,fhe drainage terrace near raid-height shall be not less than twelven(12) feet
(3.657 meters) in width. Resign and construction of drainage terraces shall conform to the
requirements of Section716-8.602 - 716-8.614. (Ords. 99-- §_.____: 69-59§ 1'(part), 1969.)
716-8,2€16 Excavations Conformance to existing terrain. Cut slopes shall be rounded
off at the top and toe to blend and confonn to existing terrain. (Ords. 99-_§_: 69-59 § 1
(part), 1969.)
ORDINANCE 99- 14
716-8.208 Excavations-Variations. Variations from.the regulations in Sections 716-
8.232 - 716-8.206 may be allowed by the County Building Official if they will provide
equivalent safety,stability, and protection against erosion, as recommended by a soil engineer or
engineering geologist. (Ords. 99-_ § _: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
SECTION XIII, Article 716-8.4 of the County Ordinance Code is amended to read:
Article 715-8.4
Fills
716-8.402 Fills -- Compaction. Except as provided below, all fills shall be compacted
throughout their full extent to a minimum of ninety(9€1)percent of maximum density. Meld
density shall be determined by a method acceptable to the building official (Ards. 99-_§
69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
715-8.404 Ellis -Special compaction. Compaction may be reduced to eighty-five(85)
percent of maximum density, as determined by the above test, within the outer eight(8) inches
(243.3 millimeters)of fill slope surfaces when such compaction is provided by grid rolling or
equivalent means. (Ords. 99- § _: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-8.406 Fills m Nonstructural. Fills not intended to support structures, subdivision
streets or improvements need not be compacted to these standards if the County Building
Official determines that such compaction is unnecessary as a safety measure. In making this
determination,the County wilding,Official may require that an investigation be made by an
approved soil testing agency to establish the characteristics of the soil,the amount of settlement
to be expected and the susceptibility of the soil to erosion or slippage. (Ords. 99-_ §_: 69-59
§ 1 (part), 1963.)
716-8.408 Fills- Planted slopes. Slope surfaces may be prepared for planting by
scarifying,by addition of top soil, or by tither methods, if such loose material sloes not exceed a
depth of three(3)inches(75.2 millimeters) and said slopes otherwise comply with the
requirements of Sections 716-8.432- 716-8.424. (Orris. 99-_§ —59-59 § 1I(part), 1969.)
716-8.410 Fills m Preparation of ground. The natural ground surface shall be prepared
to receive fill by removing vegetation or other incompetent material. Where the slope of the
natural grade is one vertical to five(5)horizontal or steeper, the fill shall be supported on
benches cut into competent material. (Ords. 99-- § ____: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
7.16-8.412 Fills'm Slope. Compacted fill shall not create an exposed slope surface steeper
than one (1)vertical to two(2)horizontal. The County Building Official may require a flatter
slope if necessary for stability and safety. Slopes of fills which are not compacted in accordance
with Sections 716-8.4€12 - 716-8.408 shall not exceed three horizontal to one vertical. (Ords. 99-
_ _§.._.< 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
ORDINANCE 99- 15
716-8.414 Fills Material. No organic or ether reducible material shall be incorporated
in fills. Except as recommended by the sail engineer and approved by the County Building
Official no rock or similar irreducible material with a maximum dimension greater than eight(8)
inches (203.2 millimeters) shall be buried or placed within forty-eight(48) inches(249.4
millimeters)of finish grade. (Orris. 99-_ § _: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-8.416 Fills -Drainage terraces. Fill slopes exceeding thirty(30) feet(9.144
meters) in vertical height shall have drainage terraces not less than five(5) feet(1.524 meters) in
width.,measured from the outer edge of the terrace to the invert of the drain, at vertical intervals
not exceeding twenty-five(25) feet(7.62 meters) except that where only one such terrace is
rewired it shall be located at mid-height. For fill slopes exceeding one hundred(100)feet(34.8
meters) in vertical height, the drainage terrace near mid-height shall be not less than twelve(12)
feet(3.6578 meters)in width. Design and construction of drainage terraces shall conform to the
requirements of Sections 716-8.602 - 716-8.614. (Ords. 99-_ § _: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-8.418 Fills-Slopes to receive fill. Where fill is to be placed above the top of an
existing or proposed cut or natural slope steeper than one (1) vertical to three (3)horizontal, the
toe of the fill shall be set back from the top edge of the slope a minimum distance of six(6) feet,
(1.829 meters) measured horizontally or such other distance as may be specifically
recommended by a soil engineer or engineering geologist and approved by the County Building
Official. Fills shall not Lae out on slopes steeper than one(1)vertical to three(3)horizontal.
(Ords. 99-__._§ _: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-8.420 Fills- Conformance to existing terrain. Fill slopes shall be tapered into the
existing terrain at the toe and shall be rounded off at the top. (Orris. 99-_§ _: 69-59 § 1 (part),
1969.)
71.6-8.422 Fills -Slope location and setbacks. (a) The property line of any proposed
or existing site or parcel'located within the grading project shall be located at the top of the slope
or along any slope drainage terrace.
(b) Excavation and fill slopes shall be set back a minimum of three(3)feet(0,914
meters)plus one-fifth the vertical height of the slope from the project boundary line with a
maximum of ten (10) feet(3.048 meters).
(c) Buildings and structures shall be set back from excavation or fill slopes a minimum
of four(4)feet(1.219 meters)Mars one-fifth the vertical height of the slope, with a maximum of
ten(10) feet(3.€348 meters). (Ords. 99-_ §_: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-8.424 Fills -Variations, Variations from the regulations in Sections 716-8.402 -
7 i 6--8.422 may be allowed by the County Building Official if they will provide equivalent safety,
stability, and protection against erosion; as recommended by a sail engineer or engineering
geologist. (Ords. 99-_ §_: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
SECILQNT XIV. Article 716-8.6 of the County Ordinance Cade is amended to read:
ORDINANCE 99- 16
Article 716-8.6
Drainage
716-8.602 Drainage - General.* Storm drainage structures, systems and Facilities shall
be provided as required by the County Building Official and in accordance with standard
specifications on file in the building inspection department. Design shall be in accordance with
recognized principles of hydraulics. (Orris. 99-_ § _: 69.59 § I (part), 1969.)
716-8.604 Drainage-Disposal. All drainage facilities shall be designed to carry
surface waters to the nearest practical street, storm drain, or natural watercourse, approved by the
County wilding Official as a safe place to discharge such waters. If the drainage device
discharges onto natural ,ground, rip-rap or a similar energy dissipater may be required. (Orris.
99-- §__._: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-8.6€16 Drainage-Site drainage. Graded building sites (building pads) shall have a
minimum slope of two percent towards a public street or drainage facility approved to receive
storm waters. A lesser slope may be approved by the County Building Official for sites graded
in relatively flat terrain,or where special drainage provisions are made,when he finds such
modification will not result in unfavorable drainage conditions. (Ords. 99-_'§ 69-59 § 1
(part), 1969.)
716-8.608 Drainage-'Terrace. (a) All swales or ditches on drainage terraces shall
have a uniform longitudinal grade of not less than one(1)percent nor more than three(3)
percent and a minimum depth of one foot(0.305 meters) at the deepest part. Such terraces shall
drain into a paved gutter,pipe or approved watercourse adequate to convey the water to a safe
disposal area.
(b) The drainage terrace shall be provided with a lined ditch, if required by the sail
engineer for stability or prevention of erosion: The lined ditch shall be constructed with a 5%
minimum slope to provide self cleaning. (Ords. 99--§_: § 1 (part), 1998.)
716-8.61€1 Drainage-Overflow protection, Berms,swales or other devices shall be
provided at the top of cut or fill slopes to prevent surface waters from flowing over or onto, and
damaging the face of the slope. Special drainage provisions shall be made where a building or
structure exists within five (5) feet (1.524 meters)of the top of a slope. (Ords. 99-_§ _: 69-
53 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716--8.612 Drainage-Maintenance. The permittee and/or owner shill maintain
drainage facilities, in conformance with the requirements of this division, during and after
construction. (Ords. 99-_ §_69-59 § l (part), 1969.)
716-8.614 Drainage-Variations. Variations From the regulations in Sections 716-
FOa drainage Psffnits.see COMVa Costs County Ordinance Codec SCh,10�1Oq-4y.��^a
DRDfNANCE 99- 17
8.602 - 716-8.612 may be allowed by the County Building Official if they will provide
equivalent safety, stability, and protection against erosion, as recommended by a one(1)vertical
to three (3)horizontal soil engineer or engineering geologist and recommended by the county
food control district. (Ords. 99-_ §_.._: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
SECTION XRT. Article 716-8.1€1 of the County Ordinance Code is amended to read:
Article 716-8.10
Miscellaneous Provisions
716-8.1002 Work during rainfall months. Excavation, grading or construction of fills
may be prohibited by the County building official daring the months in which he finds that
rainfall will likely preclude compliance with these requirements. (Ords. 99-- § 69-59 § 1
(part), 1969.)
716-8.1004 Work hours. If operations under the permit are within five hundred(500)
feet(152.4 meters) of residential or commercial occupancies,except as otherwise provided by
conditions of approval for the project,grading operations shall be limited to weekdays and to the
hours, between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., except that maintenance and service work on
equipment may be performed at any time. (Ords. 99-_§ _: 69-59 § 1 (part),'1969.)
716-8.1006 Encroachments on rights-of-way. Encroachment of operations on public
rights-of-way without an encroachment permit from the governing body is prohibited except for
hauling of legal loads by vehicles permitted by lawn to operate on public roads. (Ords. 99-_§
69-59 § I (part), 1969.)
716-8.1008 Nuisances. Operations shall be controlled to prevent nuisances to public
and private ownerships because of dust,drainage,removal of natural support of land and
structures,encroachment,noise, and/or vibration.. (Ords. 99-_ §_: 69-59 § I (part), 1969.)
716-8.1010 Explosives. Blasting or other use of explosives shall be conducted in
accordance with regulations by the board of supervisors,the State Fire Marshall, and local fire
authorities. (Ords. 99-_§ 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-8.101.2 Responsibility of permittee. (a) Compliance with plans and this Division:
the permittee,his agent,contractor or employee, shall carry out the proposed work only in
accordance with the approved plans and specifications and in compliance with all the
requirements of this division.
(b) inspections: In performing regular development work it shall be the responsibility of
the permittee to notify the County wilding Official at least one working day in advance so that
the inspections required'by Sections 716-6.€102 - 716-6.012 can be made.
(c) Protection of Utilities: During grading operations the permittee shall be responsible
for the prevention of damage to any public utilities or services.
(d) Temporary Erosion Control: The permittee shall effect and maintain precautionary
ORDINANCE 99- 18
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_ .. ........ ..................-_.... ...._..... ......... ......._. .........
.................. ............ _........ ......... ....... ..
........................................................................
measures necessary to protect adjacent watercourses and public or private property from damage
by erosion, flooding, and deposition of mud or debris originating from the side. (Ords. 99-_§
69-59 § I (part), 1969.)
716-8.1014 Reports required -Final approval. The County Building Official may
require the following reports, and shall not finally approve any development or work until all
required maps and reports have been submitted and approved.
(a) A final report by the civil engineer certifying that all grading, lot drainage and
drainage facilities have been completed and the slope planning installed in conformance with the
approved plans and the requirements of this code with a final contour map if the work is not in
substantial conformity with the approved,plans;
(b) A report by the soil engineer including the recommended soil bearing capacity,a
statement as to the expansive qualities of the soil, and summaries of field:and laboratory tests.
The location of such tests and the limits of the compacted fill shall be shown on a final plan
which shall also show by pian and cross-section the location of any subdrains,;rock disposal
areas and/or buttress fills involved in the work.
(c) An engineering geologist's report based on the final contour map including specific
approval of the grading as affected by geological factors. The report shall include a revised
geologic reap and crass-sections, with recommendations regarding the location of buildings or
sewage disposal systems. (Ords. 99 § _e 69-59 § I (part), 1969.)
7164.1416 Evaluation of existing fill. The County wilding Official may require the
submission of a preliminary soil investigation report and/or engineering geological report before
issuing a building permit for a stricture to be placed on any fill or embankment constructed
before August 11, 1969; or excepted from the requirement for a grading permit, or on any other
lot or parcel on which critically expansive soils, slide conditions, or other soils, or geologic
hazards exist or may reasonably be anticipated to exist. If the County Building Official
determines that the action recommended in this report is likely to prevent structural damage to
the proposed structure,he shall approve the report and the recommended action contained in the
report shall become a part of the required construction as a condition of the permit. (Ords. 99-_
§_..._- 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
716-$,1418 Site evaluation and investigation. (a) The County Building Official may
conduct a field investigation and site evaluation of a lot or parcel prior to application for a
grading and/or building permit if the owner submits a written request and the fee required by
Section 716-4,1€114.
(b) The investigation shall determine what information,engineering data or glans will be
required to be submitted with the application for grading and/or building permits and under what
conditions the permits would be issued.
(c) No fees or written request will be necessary after an application for a building and/or
grading permit has been accepted or if the County Building Official initiates the field
investigation. (Ords. 99-_ §_: 69-59 § 1 (part), 1969.)
EC XVI, BpFB TI_�ATTE. This ordinance becomes effective 3€1 days after passage,
ORDINANCE 99-� 19
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........ ........._....._................ ...._.... ......._. ......._... .._......_. . ......._... ............ ........... .......... ......... .........
and within 15 days after passage shall be published once with the names of supervisors voting
for and against it in the , a newspaper published in this County. 1§§
25123 & 25124]
PASSED on , by the following vote;
AYES
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
A'T'TEST. PHIL BATCHELOR, Clerk of the
Board and County Administrator
By:
Deputy Board Chair
DJS/jh
€ASTAFF GRAD1NC.WPCS
ORDINANCE 99- 20