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Modesto · Building on your lot

Grading and erosion control in Modesto

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

Ask about grading and erosion control in Modesto See coverage

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

What Modesto's code says

Modesto code What Modesto's code adds
When a grading permit is needed
  • A permit is needed for 350 cubic yards or more of soil, or clearing and grubbing more than one-half acre.
    Applies: Applies to grading, filling, digging, storing or disposing of soil or earth material.
    § 5-10.301 · code text
    grade, fill, excavate, store or dispose of three hundred fifty (350) cubic yards or more of soil or earth material
Grading without a permit
  • Less than 350 cubic yards of soil, or clearing and grubbing less than one-half acre.
    Applies: Exempt work must still meet the chapter's standards.
    § 5-10.302 · code text
    grade, fill, excavate, store or dispose of less than three hundred fifty (350) cubic yards of soil or earth material; or (2) clear and grub less than one-half (.5) acre of land within the City
  • Grading for pools, basements or footings under a valid building permit.
    Applies: Exempt work must still meet the chapter's standards.
    § 5-10.302 · code text
    for the grading, filling, excavating, storing, disposing, or clearing and grubbing for: (1) Swimming pools, basements, or footings of structures if authorized by a valid building permit; (2) Underground utilities; (3) Mining or quarry operations, if a use permit has been granted by the City; (4) Refuse disposal sites permitted by the Federal, State, and local governmental agencies; (5) The production of planted agricultural crops.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

What are the grading rules in Modesto?

Modesto's code: A permit is needed for 350 cubic yards or more of soil, or clearing and grubbing more than one-half acre. (Applies to grading, filling, digging, storing or disposing of soil or earth material.) (§ 5-10.301); Less than 350 cubic yards of soil, or clearing and grubbing less than one-half acre. (Exempt work must still meet the chapter's standards.) (§ 5-10.302).

General information, not legal advice.

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