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Sutter County · Building on your lot

Grading and erosion control in Sutter County

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

Ask about grading and erosion control in Sutter County See coverage

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

What Sutter County's code says

Sutter County code What Sutter County's code adds
When a grading permit is needed
  • A grading permit is needed for 350 cubic yards or more.
    Applies: Grading, filling, digging, storing or disposing of soil in the unincorporated county. Clearing 1 acre or more also needs a permit.
    § 1770-040 · code text
    Grading, filling, excavation, storage or disposal of 350 cubic yards or more of soil or earthly material;
  • A grading permit is needed for 50 cubic yards or more.
    Applies: Grading, filling or storing soil in a designated floodway.
    § 1770-040 · code text
    Grading, filling or storage of 50 cubic yards or more of soil or earthly material in a designated floodway;
Grading without a permit
  • Trenches for approved pipelines, septic fields, conduits and utilities; post holes or approved wells; emergency work protecting life or property.
    Applies: No Grading and Erosion Control Permit needed. After emergency work, apply for a permit within 10 calendar days.
    § 1770-060 · code text
    In addition to those activities excluded in Section 1770-050, a Grading and Erosion Control Permit shall not be required for any of the following activities:

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

What are the grading rules in Sutter County?

Sutter County's code: A grading permit is needed for 350 cubic yards or more. (Grading, filling, digging, storing or disposing of soil in the unincorporated county. Clearing 1 acre or more also needs a permit.) (§ 1770-040); A grading permit is needed for 50 cubic yards or more. (Grading, filling or storing soil in a designated floodway.) (§ 1770-040).

General information, not legal advice.

Ask about a specific Sutter County property

Ask GoCodebook how Sutter County's grading and erosion control rules apply to your situation and get an answer that cites the section.

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Sutter County Municipal Code — full text