Grading Step Two

Identifying the Type of Grading

If your responses to the application indicate that you do require a grading permit, the next step is to determine the level of grading permit needed, using the Grading Permit Types Table (PDF).

Further details on each level of permit are available the Grading Ordinance section listed below.  Once you determine the level of permit required, submit application materials as shown below:

Types of Grading

Simple Grading (Section 30.20)
If your project requires a simple grading permit, please submit a completed grading permit application and the necessary application materials (permit requirements).  Simple Grading Permits can typically be issued within a few days.

Standard Grading (Section 30.21)
If your project requires a standard grading permit, please submit a completed grading permit application and the necessary application materials (permit requirements) and include the fees for a Categorical Exemption and Archaeological Review by Sonoma State pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).  Public notice will be sent to neighboring property owners, then a CEQA Categorical Exemption will be filed with the County Clerk.  

Complex Grading (Section 30.22)
If your project exceeds the limits for simple or standard grading, then the project shall be designated as complex grading and will require submitting a completed grading permit application and the necessary application materials (permit requirements) and include the fees for an Initial Study and Archaeological Review by Sonoma State pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).  Certain types of grading (described in Sec 30.22.1) will require the submission of engineered plans.  Complex Grading may also require the submission of additional reports such as:

  • Biological Resources Survey
  • Cultural Resources Survey
  • Geotechnical Report
  • Hydrologic Study
  • Other site-specific analyses as deemed necessary by the Administrative Official

View lists of consultants approved by Lake County to perform the above-listed surveys.

The CEQA review is a time-consuming process and can be expedited by submitting the necessary documents along with the application.  Upon completion of the CEQA review, public notice will be sent to neighboring property owners. The public has 20 days in which to review the project and make any comments, or request a public hearing.  If no hearing is requested, the CEQA findings will be filed with the County Clerk. 

Prior to being issued a Complex Grading Permit, you may be required to obtain approval or permits from other public agencies, including but not limited to: