Residential Development Plans

In addition to a site plan, a building plan needs to be developed that clearly indicates what is to be built. For most small projects (i.e. garages, outbuildings, decks, etc.) a hand drawn set of plans will be sufficient. For larger projects, floor plans and elevation plans will be required. If the project proposes any new construction activity beyond single family or duplex development, building plans are required to be prepared by a licensed architect and/or engineer and properly sealed. Two sets of building plans are required to be submitted to the Permits and Inspections Office. Keep in mind that swimming pools require a building permit.


Grading Permit Plans are required for the following residential development plans:

Major Single Family Residence Disturbance - above 30,000 square feet of earth disturbance, and/or over 500 cubic yards of earth disturbance.

Minor Single Family Residence Disturbance - 5,000 - 30,000 square feet of earth disturbance, and/or 100 - 500 cubic yards of earth disturbance.

* A Building Permit is also required for construction.


When applying for a grading permit, be sure to bring the following:

  • Contractors and Excavators addresses and phone numbers
  • 2 copies of the house plans
  • House location drawings
  • Site plan
  • Dimensions of the entire disturbance including: house, garage, septic fields, driveway, parking area, yard, etc.