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Building on a hillside in Moorpark

Moorpark's own rules on building on a hillside, with the code text for every value.

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

What Moorpark's code says

Moorpark code What Moorpark's code adds
Grading and retaining walls
  • Manufactured slopes may be no higher than 30 feet; slopes over 15 feet must have varied gradients.
    Applies: Hillside area projects, unless the chapter allows otherwise.
    § 17.38.100 · code text
    The maximum height for manufactured slopes shall be 30 feet except as specified in this chapter.
When hillside rules apply
  • No construction or grading on slopes of 50% or more.
    Applies: Narrow exceptions: isolated fingers of steep slope, filling small ravines, and roads with no reasonable alternative.
    § 17.38.090 · code text
    No construction or grading shall be permitted in areas containing slopes of 50% or greater except under the following circumstances:
  • Hillside contour rules apply to natural grades of 20% or more.
    Applies: Homes on ungraded lots must follow natural contours, using stepped foundations or split-level plans.
    § 17.38.100 · code text
    Dwellings proposed on ungraded lots with natural grades of 20% and greater shall follow natural contours, utilizing such techniques as stepped foundations and split-level floor plans.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

What extra rules apply to a hillside lot in Moorpark?

Moorpark's code: No construction or grading on slopes of 50% or more. (Narrow exceptions: isolated fingers of steep slope, filling small ravines, and roads with no reasonable alternative.) (§ 17.38.090); Manufactured slopes may be no higher than 30 feet; slopes over 15 feet must have varied gradients. (Hillside area projects, unless the chapter allows otherwise.) (§ 17.38.100).

General information, not legal advice.

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Ask GoCodebook how Moorpark's building on a hillside rules apply to your situation and get an answer that cites the section.

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