Lot grading is the reshaping or sloping of the land in such a way that surface drainage from rainstorms, snowmelt or groundwater is directed away from the buildings and is controlled in a manner that eliminates or minimizes the impact on the property and adjacent properties.
On Aug. 10, 2020, Town of Devon Council passed Bylaw 950/2020 - Surface Water Drainage to regulate and control surface water drainage to establish and maintain proper grading of lots throughout Devon.
Lot Grading Plans are part of the approval process for development and the landscaping of residential properties. Lot Grading Plans specify design elevations, surface gradients, lot types and swale locations required for managing surface water. The plan identifies the drainage relationship between its adjacent properties and the approval process is an effective control of lot grading.
The Lot Grading Approval Procedure is usually done in two stages. The Rough Grade Stage is generally the responsibility of the homebuilder and the Final Grade Stage is generally the responsibility of the homeowner.
This stage includes backfilling the foundation walls and shaping of the lot to conform to the approved Overall Lot Grading Plan. Acceptable tolerances are between 10 cm and 20 cm below design elevations before final landscaping is carried out. The Rough Grade Approval Inspection should occur within 12 months of the issuance of a lot grading permit or before occupancy of the home.
This stage must be initiated by within one year of the Rough Grade Approval. The final grade Acceptable tolerances are between 0 cm and 10 cm below design elevations. The topsoil should be smoothly spread out, compacted and ready for sod, liners, rocks, etc. If rocks, wood chips or other decorative material is planned, the clay base (rough grade) must be raised to final grade before placing the decorative material.
The inspection and approval process for new developments minimizes problems that arise from improperly graded residential lots. Changes in alterations to surface grades on existing lots can also have a potential impact on both the property making changes as well as adjacent property owners.
With each lot grading permit application, the Town reviews the lot grading plan provided at the time of application to ensure it is consistent with the approved Surface Drainage Plan for the area.
The cost of the application is $75.
For more information, please email the Town at permits@devon.ca or call 780-987-8313.