HomeMy WebLinkAbout764ORDINANCE NO. 764
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF IRWINDALE REPEALING
ORDINANCE NOs. 709 and 743 IN THEIR ENTIRETY, AMENDING TITLE 15 OF THE
IRWINDALE MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING CHAPTER 15.07 — "EXISTING
BUILDING CODE," AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY
BUILDING CODE (2023 EDITION) WITH IRWINDALE AMENDMENTS, LOS ANGELES
COUNTY ELECTRICAL CODE (2023 EDITION), LOS ANGELES COUNTY PLUMBING
CODE (2023 EDITION), LOS ANGELES COUNTY MECHANICAL CODE (2023
EDITION), LOS ANGELES COUNTY GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE (2023
EDITION), LOS ANGELES COUNTY RESIDENTIAL CODE (2023 EDITION), EXISTING
BUILDING CODE (2023 EDITION), AND ADOPTING LOCAL AMENDMENTS
THERETO, PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 50022.2 ET SEQ.
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WHEREAS, Government Code section 50022.2 et seq. authorizes the
adoption by reference of California codes and codes that adopt the California
codes, including the Codes of the County of Los Angeles, which adopts the
California Building, Existing Building, Residential, Green Building Standards,
Plumbing, Electrical and Mechanical Codes, as amended; and
WHEREAS, sections 17958.5, 17958.7, and 18941.5 of the Health and
Safety Code expressly authorize cities to make changes in the California Building,
Existing Building Code, Residential, Green Building Standards, Plumbing,
Electrical and Mechanical Codes, as reasonably necessary due to local conditions;
and
WHEREAS, the Los Angeles County Building, Existing Building,
Residential, Green Building Standards, Electrical, Plumbing and Mechanical
Codes incorporate appropriate findings related to local climatic, geological, or
topographical conditions of Los Angeles County, as specified under the provisions
of the California Health & Safety Code; and
WHEREAS, on January 11, 2017, the City adopted Ordinance No. 709, and
on January 8, 2020, the City adopted Ordinance No. 743, which set out provisions
intended for use as Chapter 15.05 "Existing Building Code." However, Chapter
15.05 of the City's Municipal Code was already established through the adoption
of Ordinance No. 697, adopted October 14, 2015, "EXPEDITED PERMITTING
FOR SMALL RESIDENTIAL ROOFTOP SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS," and the
provisions of Ordinance Nos. 709 and 743 were reclassified as Chapter 15.07 in
the City's online version of the Municipal Code. Therefore, the City Council desires
to repeal Ordinance Nos. 709 and 743 in their entirety, and formally add Chapter
15.07 "Existing Building Code" to the Irwindale Municipal Code; and
Ordinance No. 764
Page 1
WHEREAS, on December 14, 2022, the City Council considered
Ordinance 764 and accepting staffs recommendation to amend Appendix `°J" of
the County grading section to include Backfilling Standards of Open -Pit Mines
and the requirement of a grading permit for the backfilling of open -pit mines using
either inert debris fill or soil fill; and
WHEREAS, on January 11, 2023, the City Council of the City of Irwindale,
pursuant to a notice duly issued under Government Code section 50022.3,
conducted a public hearing to consider this ordinance adopting the 2023 Edition of
the Los Angeles Building, Existing Building Code, Residential, Green Building
Standards, Plumbing, Electrical and Mechanical Codes with the City's amendment
of Appendix "J" of the County Building Codes.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF IRWINDALE DOES
HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
BUILDING CODE
SECTION 1: The City Council finds that the above recitals are true and correct and
are incorporated herein by this reference.
SECTION 2. Repeal of Conflicting Ordinances and Continuing Effect of Irwindale
Municipal Code Chapter 15.05. Ordinance Nos. 709 and 743 are hereby repealed in their
entirety. Ordinance No. 697, adopted October 14, 2015 adding Irwindale Municipal Code
Chapter 15.05 "EXPEDITED PERMITTING FOR SMALL RESIDENTIAL ROOFTOP
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS," shall remain in full force and effect.
SECTION 3: Chapter 15.04.10 of the Irwindale Municipal Code is hereby
amended in its entirety to read as follows:
Section 15.04.010. Adoption of code. A. There is hereby adopted, as the
city building code, except as provided in this chapter, that certain building code
known and designated as the Los Angeles County Building Code, 2023 Edition
(Title 26 of the Los Angeles County Code), which incorporates and amends the
2022 California Building Code, including all appendixes thereto and changes made
by the County of Los Angeles and by the City of Irwindale, and such code shall be
and become the building code of the city, regulating and controlling the design,
construction, quality of materials, grading, use, occupancy, location and
maintenance of all buildings or structures and prescribing conditions under which
such work may be carried on within the city and providing for the issuance of
permits and the collection of fees therefor.
B. Los Angeles County Ordinance No. 2022-0051, as adopted by
county of Los Angeles, is adopted in its entirety and incorporated herein by this
reference, with City's Amendments to Appendix "J".
Ordinance No. 764
Page 2
SECTION 4: The City Council hereby finds that the County of Los Angeles, in
adopting its Ordinance No. 2022-0051, has made all appropriate findings related to local
climatic, geological, or topographical conditions, as specified under the provisions of the
California Health & Safety Code. The City Council hereby incorporates the findings
summarized in the Los Angeles County Ordinance No. 2022-0051. The City Council
further finds that the County's grading section Appendix "Y as revised pursuant to Health
and Safety Code section 18941.5, and attached hereto as Exhibit "A", to include the more
restrictive requirement of a grading permit for the backfilling of open -pit mines using either
inert debris fill or soil fill, is necessary to address and remediate existing geological
conditions as a result of ongoing mining activities in the City of Irwindale.
RESIDENTIAL CODE
SECTION 5: Chapter 15.06.010 of the Irwindale Municipal Code is hereby
amended in its entirety to read as follows:
Section 15.06.010. Adoption of code. A. There is hereby adopted, as the
city's residential code, except as provided in this chapter, that certain residential
code known and designated as the Los Angeles County Residential Code, 2023
Edition (Title 30 of the Los Angeles County Code), which incorporates and amends
the 2022 California Residential Code, including all appendixes thereto and
changes made by the County of Los Angeles and by the City of Irwindale, and
such code shall be and become the building code of the city, regulating and
controlling the design, construction, quality of materials, grading, use, occupancy,
location and maintenance of all buildings or structures and prescribing conditions
under which such work may be carried on within the city and providing for the
issuance of permits and the collection of fees therefor.
B. Los Angeles County Ordinance No. 2022-0055, as adopted by the
county of Los Angeles, is adopted in its entirety.
SECTION 6: The City Council hereby finds that the County of Los Angeles, in
adopting its Ordinance No. 2022-055 has made all appropriate findings related to
administrative matters. The City Council hereby incorporates the findings summarized in
the Los Angeles County Ordinance No, 2022-055.
EXISTING BUILDING CODE
SECTION 7: Chapter 15.07 entitled, "EXISTING BUILDING CODE" of the
Irwindale Municipal Code is hereby added and adopted to read in its entirety as follows:
Section 15.07.010. Adoption of code.
A. There is hereby adopted, as the city's existing building code, except as provided
in this chapter, that certain existing building code known and designated as the
Los Angeles County Existing Building Code, 2023 Edition (Title 33 of the Los
Angeles County Code), which incorporates and amends the 2022 California
Ordinance No. 764
Page 3
Existing Building Code, including all appendixes thereto and changes made by the
County of Los Angeles and by the City of Irwindale, and such code shall be and
become the existing building code of the city, regulating and controlling the ability
to provide flexibility to permit the use of alternative approaches to achieve
compliance with minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety, and
welfare insofar as they are affected by the repair, alteration, change of occupancy,
addition, and relocation of existing buildings or structures and prescribing
conditions under which such work may be carried on within the city and providing
for the issuance of permits and the collection of fees therefor.
B. Los Angeles County Ordinance No. 2022-0057, as adopted by the County
of Los Angeles, is adopted in its entirety and incorporated herein by this reference.
Section 15.07.020. Copies filed. Three copies of the Los Angeles County
Existing Building Code, referred to in Section 15.07.10 of this chapter, have been
deposited in the office of the city clerk and shall be at all times maintained by
said clerk for use and examination by the public.
Section 15.07.030. Terms defined. Whenever any of the following names
or terms are used in the Los Angeles County Existing Building Code, each such
name or term shall be deemed and construed to have the meaning ascribed to it
in this section as follows:
"Board of appeals" means the board of appeals established by the Los
Angeles County Building Code.
"Board of supervisors" means the city council.
"Building department" means the building and safety division of the
department of public works, acting for the city.
"Building code," "uniform building" or "Los Angeles County Building Code"
means Chapter 15.04 of this code;
"Building official" means the director of public works or his or her
designee.
"City" means the city of Irwindale.
"County," "county of Los Angeles" or "unincorporated territory of the
county of Los Angeles" means the city.
"County engineer" means the director of public works of the county of Los
Angeles.
"Electrical code" means Chapter 15.08 of this code.
Ordinance No. 764
Page 4
"Existing building code" means Chapter 15.07 of this code.
"Fire code" means Chapter 15.12 of this code.
"Fire zone" means the fire zone or zones adopted by an ordinance
creating and establishing fire zones.
"General fund" means the city treasury.
"Health code" or "Los Angeles County Health Code" means Chapter 8.04
of this code.
"Health officer" means the health officer of the city.
"Mechanical code" means Chapter 15.20 of this code.
"Plumbing code" means Chapter 15.16 of this code.
"Green Building Standards code" means Chapter 15.10 of this code.
Section 15.07.040. Fee schedule — Modification by Resolution. The fee
schedules adopted by Section 15.07.10 of this title may be amended by
resolution adopted by the city council.
SECTION 8: The City Council hereby finds that the County of Los Angeles, in
adopting its Ordinance No. 2022-0057 has made all appropriate findings related to
administrative matters. The City Council hereby incorporates by reference the findings
summarized in the Los Angeles County Ordinance No. 2022-0057.
ELECTRICAL CODE
SECTION 9: Chapter 15.08.010 of the Irwindale Municipal Code is hereby
amended in its entirety to read as follows:
Section 15.08.010. Adoption of Code. A. There is hereby adopted as the
city's electrical code, except as provided in this chapter, that certain electrical code
known and designated as the Los Angeles County Electrical Code, 2023 Edition
(Title 27 of the Los Angeles County Code), which incorporates and amends the
California Electrical Code, 2022 Edition, including all appendixes thereto and
changes made by the county of Los Angeles, and such code shall be and become
the electrical code of the city regulating and controlling the design, construction,
installation, quality of materials, operation and maintenance of electrical systems,
wiring and appliances and providing for the issuance of permits and the collection
of fees therefor.
B. Los Angeles County Ordinance No. 2022-0052, as adopted by the
county of Los Angeles, is adopted in its entirety.
Ordinance No. 764
Page 5
SECTION 10: The City Council hereby finds that the County of Los Angeles,
in adopting its Ordinance No. 2022-0052 has made all appropriate findings related to
administrative matters. The City Council hereby incorporates the findings summarized in
the Los Angeles County Ordinance No. 2022-0052.
GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
SECTION 11: Chapter 15.10.010 of the Irwindale Municipal Code is hereby
amended in its entirety to read as follows:
Section 15.10.010. Adoption of code. A. There is hereby adopted, as the
city's green building standards code, except as provided in this chapter, that
certain green building standards code known and designated as the Los Angeles
County Green Building Standards Code, 2023 Edition (Title 31 of the Los Angeles
County Code), which incorporates and amends the 2022 California Green Building
Standards Code, including all appendixes thereto and changes made by the
County of Los Angeles and by the City of Irwindale, and such code shall be and
become the building code of the city, regulating and controlling the design,
construction, quality of materials, grading, use, occupancy, location and
maintenance of all buildings or structures and prescribing conditions under which
such work may be carried on within the city and providing for the issuance of
permits and the collection of fees therefor.
B. Los Angeles County Ordinance No. 2022-0056, as adopted by the
county of Los Angeles, is adopted in its entirety.
SECTION 12: The City Council hereby finds that the County of Los Angeles,
in adopting its Ordinance No. 2022-0056 has made all appropriate findings related to
administrative matters. The City Council hereby incorporates the findings summarized in
the Los Angeles County Ordinance No. 2022-0056.
PLUMBING CODE
SECTION 13: Chapter 15.16.010 of the Irwindale Municipal Code is hereby
amended in its entirety to read as follows:
Section 15.16.010. Adoption of Codes. A. There is hereby adopted as city
plumbing code, except as provided in this chapter, that certain plumbing code
known and designated as the Los Angeles County Plumbing Code, 2023 Edition
(Title 28 of the Los Angeles County Code), which incorporates and amends the
California Plumbing Code, 2022 Edition, including all appendixes thereto and
changes made by the county of Los Angeles, and such code shall be and become
the plumbing code of the city regulating and controlling plumbing and drainage
systems, house sewers, private sewage disposal systems and prescribing
conditions under which such work may be carried on within the city and providing
for the issuance of permits and the collection of fees therefor.
Ordinance No. 764
Page 6
B. Los Angeles County Ordinance No. 2022-0053, as adopted by the
county of Los Angeles, is adopted in its entirety.
SECTION 14: The City Council hereby finds that the County of Los Angeles,
in adopting its Ordinance No. 2022-0053 has made all appropriate findings related to local
climatic, geological, or topographical conditions, as specified under the provisions of the
California Health & Safety Code. The City Council hereby incorporates the findings
summarized in the Los Angeles County Ordinance No. 2022-0053.
MECHANICAL CODE
SECTION 15: Chapter 15.20.010 of the Irwindale Municipal Code is hereby
amended in its entirety to read as follows:
Section 15.20.010. Adoption of Codes. A. There is hereby adopted as the city's
mechanical code, except as provided in this chapter, that certain mechanical code
known and designated as the Los Angeles County Mechanical Code, 2023 Edition
(Title 29 of the Los Angeles County Code), which incorporates and amends the
California Mechanical Code, 2022 Edition, including all appendixes thereto and
changes made by the county of Los Angeles, and such code shall be and become
the mechanical code of the city regulating and controlling the design, construction,
installation, quality of materials, operation and maintenance of heating, ventilating,
cooling, refrigeration systems, incinerators and other miscellaneous heat -
producing appliances and providing for the issuance of permits and the collection
of fees therefor.
B. Los Angeles County Ordinance No. 2022-0054 as adopted by the
county of Los Angeles, is adopted in its entirety.
SECTION 16: The City Council hereby finds that the County of Los Angeles,
in adopting its Ordinance No. 2022-0054 has made all appropriate findings related tc
administrative matters. The City Council hereby incorporates the findings summarized in
the Los Angeles County Ordinance No. 2022-0054.
SECTION 17: All violations of the provisions of the Los Angeles County Building
Code, (2020 Edition), Los Angeles County Residential Code (2023 Edition), Los Angeles
County Green Building Standards Code (2023 Edition), Los Angeles County Electrical
Code (2023 Edition), Los Angeles County Plumbing Code, (2023 Edition), and Los
Angeles County Mechanical Code (2023 Edition) adopted by the City shall be a
misdemeanor and subject to the penalty provisions contained in Chapter 1.12 of the
Irwindale Municipal Code.
SECTION 18: Full Force and Effect. Except as expressly amended herein, all
other subsections of Chapter 15 of the Irwindale Municipal Code shall be unchanged and
in full force and effect.
Ordinance No. 764
Page 7
SECTION 19: Effective Date. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and
adoption of this ordinance by the City Council of the City of Irwindale and shall, within 15
days after its final passage, cause the same to be published once in a newspaper of
general circulation in the City of Irwindale, and this Ordinance shall take effect 30 days
after its passage.
SECTION 20. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause,
phrase, or portion of this Ordinance is, for any reason, held to be invalid or
unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall
not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council of the
City of Irwindale hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance and each
section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact
that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions
thereof may be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED on the 11th day of .January 2023.
H. Manuel Ortiz, Mayor
ATTENn
M. Nieto, MMC
Deputy City Clerk
Ordinance No. 764
Page 8
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss.
CITY OF IRWINDALE )
I, Laura M. Nieto, Chief Deputy City Clerk of the City of Irwindale, California, do hereby
certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. 764 was introduced for first reading at a regular
meeting of the City Council of the City of Irwindale held on December 14, 2022, and
adopted on second reading at a duly noticed regular meeting of the City Council of the
City of Irwindale held on January 11, 2023, and was carried by the following -roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers
NOES: Councilmembers:
ABSENT: Councilmembers
ABSTAIN: Councilmembers:
Ambriz, Breceda, Burrola, Garcia, Mayor Ortiz
None
None
None
era M. Nieto, MMC
ief Deputy City Clerk
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
I, Laura M. Nieto, Chief Deputy City Clerk, certify that I caused a copy of Ordinance No. 764, adopted by the City Council of the City
of I*dgle at its regular meeting held January 11, 2023 to be posted at the City Hall, Library, and Post Office on January 17, 2023.
M. Nieto, MMC
Deputy City Clerk
Dated: (7c 2fj -`�,
Ordinance No. 764
Page 9
EXHIBIT "A"
Title 26 - BUILDING CODE
APPENDIX GRADING
APPENDIX J GRADING
SECTION J1O1 GENERAL
J1O1.1 Scope.
The provisions of this Appendix apply to grading, excavation, and earthwork construction, including fills and
embankments, and the control of runoff from graded sites, including erosion sediments and construction -related
pollutants. This scope includes inert debris engineered fills placed under the auspices of Title 14 Section 17388 of
the California Code of Regulations. The purpose of this Appendix is to safeguard life, limb, property, and the public
welfare by regulating grading on property subject to this Code.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 79, 2019.)
J1O1.2 Flood hazard areas.
Unless the applicant has submitted a hydrology and hydraulic analysis, prepared in accordance with standard
engineering practice by a California licensed civil engineer, that demonstrates the proposed work will not result in
any increase in the level of the base flood, grading, excavation and earthwork construction, including fills and
embankments, shall not be permitted in floodways designated in Chapter 11.60 of Title 11- Health and Safety - of
the Los Angeles County Code, or in floodways that are in flood hazard areas established in Section 1612.3, or in
flood hazard areas where design flood elevations are specified but floodways have not been designated.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 79, 2019.)
J101.3 General hazards.
Whenever the Building Official determines that any existing excavation, embankment, or fill on property subject to
this Code has become a hazard to life and limb, or endangers property, or adversely affects the safety, use, or
stability of a public way or drainage channel, the Building Official may give written notice thereof to the owner of
the property upon which the excavation, embankment, or fill is located, or other person or agent in control of said
property. Upon receipt of said notice, the owner or other person or agent in control of the property shall repair or
eliminate such excavation, embankment, or fill so as to eliminate the hazard, in conformance with the
requirements of this Code, within the period specified in said notice.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 79, 2019.)
J101.4 Safety precautions.
If at any stage of the work the Building Official determines by inspection that further grading as authorized is likely
to endanger any public or private property, or result in the deposition of debris on any public way, or interfere
with any existing drainage course, the Building Official may order the work stopped by notice in writing served on
any persons engaged in doing or causing such work to be done, and any such person shall immediately stop such
work. The Building Official may authorize the work to proceed if the Building Official finds that adequate safety
precautions can be taken or corrective measures incorporated in the work to avoid likelihood of such danger,
deposition, or interference.
Los Angeles County, California, Code of Ordinances
(Supp, No. 134, Update 2)
Created: 2022-08-26 09:30:51 [EST]
Page 1 of 30
if the grading work as done has created or resulted in a hazardous condition, the Building Official shall give
written notice requiring correction thereof as specified in Section J101 of this Code.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 79, 2019.)
J101.5 Protection of utilities.
Both the permittee and the owner of the property on which the grading is performed shall be responsible for the
prevention of damage to any public and/or private utilities or services.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 79, 2019.)
J101.6 Protection of adjacent property.
Both the permittee and owner of the property on which the grading is performed shall be responsible for the
prevention of damage to adjacent property. No person shall excavate on land sufficiently close to the property line
to endanger any adjoining public street, sidewalk, alley, or other public or private property without taking
adequate measures to support and protect such property from settling, cracking, or other damage that might
result from the proposed work. Any person performing any grading that involves imported or exported materials
shall take special precautions, as approved by the Building Official, to prevent such materials from being deposited
on adjacent properties, any public way, and/or any drainage course.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 79, 2019.)
J1013 Storm water control measures.
Both the permittee and the owner of the property on which the grading is performed shall put into effect and
maintain all precautionary measures necessary to protect adjacent water courses and public or private property
from damage by erosion, flooding, and deposition of mud, debris, and construction -related pollutants originating
from the site during grading and related construction activities.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 79, 2019.)
J101.8 Maintenance of protective devices and rodent control.
All drainage structures and other protective devices and all burrowing rodent control measures, as shown on the
grading plans approved by the Building Official, shall be maintained in a good condition and, when necessary,
promptly repaired by the permittee or the owner of the property on which grading has been performed or by any
other person or agent in control of such property.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 79, 2019.)
J101.9 Correlation with other sections.
The provisions of this Appendix are independent of the provisions of Chapter 99 of this Code relating to building
and property rehabilitation. This Section may be applied even though the same facts have been used to determine
that there is substandard property subject to the provisions of Chapter 99.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 79, 2019.)
(Supp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created; 2022-08-26 09:30:50 [EST]
Page 2 of 30
J101.10 Conditions of approval.
In granting any permit under this Code, the Building Official may include such conditions as may be reasonably
necessary to prevent creation of a nuisance or hazard to public or private property. Such conditions may include,
but shall not be limited to:
Improvement of any existing grading to comply with the standards of this Code.
Requirements for fencing of excavations or fills that would otherwise be hazardous.
Requirements for temporary excavations and shoring to be shown on plans.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 79, 2019.)
J102.1 Definitions.
For the purposes of this Appendix, the terms, phrases, and words listed in this Section and their derivatives shall
have the indicated meanings.
ABOVE -WATER INERT DEBRIS ENGINEERED FELL. A fill that contains inert debris and is placed above the
groundwater table.
APPROVAL. When the proposed work or completed work conforms to this Appendix, as determined by and
to the satisfaction of the Building Official.
AS -BUILT. See Section J105.12.
BACKFILL. Fill placed in a zone that had previously been excavated.
BEDROCK. The relatively solid, undisturbed rock in place either at the ground surface or beneath superficial
deposits of alluvium, colluvium, and/or soil.
BENCH. A relatively level step excavated into earth material on which fill is to be placed.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICE (BIVIP). Practices, prohibitions of practices, or other activities to reduce or
eliminate the discharge of pollutants to surface waters. BMPs include structural and nonstructural controls,
management practices, operation and maintenance procedures, and system, design, and engineering methods
that are required to be employed in order to comply with the requirements of the National Pollution Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) permit issued to the County of Los Angeles (see Section 106.4.3 and Title 31- Green
Building Standards Code - of the Los Angeles County Code).
BORROW. Earth material acquired from an off -site location for use in grading on a site.
CIVIL ENGINEER. A professional engineer licensed in the State of California to practice in the field of civil
works.
CIVIL ENGINEERING. The application of the knowledge of the forces of nature, principles of mechanics, and
the properties of materials to the evaluation, design, and construction of civil works.
COMPACTION. The densification of a fill by mechanical means.
CUT. See "Excavation."
DESILTING BASINS. Physical structures, constructed for the removal of sediments from surface water runoff.
DESIGN ENGINEER. The Civil Engineer responsible for the preparation of the grading plans for the site
grading work.
(5upp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created; 2022-08-25 09:80;50 [EST]
Page 3 of 30
DOWN DRAIN. A device for collecting water from a swale or ditch located on or above a slope, and safely
delivering it to an approved drainage facility.
EARTH MATERIAL. Any rock, natural soil, or fill, or any combination thereof.
ENGINEERING GEOLOGIST. A geologist experienced and knowledgeable in engineering geology, holding a
license as a geologist in the specialty of engineering geology issued by the State of California under the applicable
provisions of the Geologist and Geophysicist Act of the Business and Professions Code.
ENGINEERING GEOLOGY. The application of geologic knowledge and principles in the investigation and
evaluation of naturally occurring rock and soil for use in the design of civil works.
EROSION. The wearing away of the ground surface as a result of the movement of wind, water, or ice.
EXCAVATION. The removal of earth material by artificial means, also referred to as a cut.
FIELD ENGINEER. The Civil Engineer responsible for performing the functions as set forth in Section J105.3.
FILL. Deposition of earth materials by artificial means.
FILL AND OPERATIONS PLAN. Combined engineering plans and geotechnical reports representing the
overall conceptual and general planning for the initiation through completion of reclamation of open -pit mines for
both underwater and above -water backfills.
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER. See "Soils Engineer".
GEOTECHNICAL HAZARD. An adverse condition due to landslide, settlement, and/or slippage. These hazards
include, but are not limited to, loose debris, slopewash, and mud flows from natural or graded slopes.
GRADE. The vertical location of the ground surface.
GRADE, EXISTING. The grade prior to grading.
GRADE, FINAL. See Section 1105.7.
GRADE, FINISHED. The grade of the site at the conclusion of all grading efforts.
GRADE, INITIAL. See Section J105.7.
GRADE, ROUGH. See Section J105.7.
GRADING. An excavation or fill or combination thereof.
GRADING PERMIT FOR MINE RECLAMATION BACKFILL. A permit, issued to backfills of open -pit mines for all
active SMARA pits.
INERT DEBRIS ENGINEERED FILL. An engineered fill that contains concrete, broken concrete, tile, masonry
brick or block, concrete block, rock, sand, gravel, stone, clay, clay products, ceramics, soils, stucco, fine silt wet or
dry, and materials encased in concrete, asphaltic concrete, crushed glass, and other similar materials. These fill
materials are typically generated as waste products from construction and demolition operations.
KEY. A compacted fill placed in a trench excavated in earth material beneath the toe of a slope.
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT. A person who holds a certificate to practice landscape architecture in the State of
California under the applicable landscape architecture provisions of Division 3, Chapter 3.5, of the Business and
Professions Code.
LINE. The horizontal location of the ground surface.
(5upp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created: 2022-08-26 09,30:50 [EST)
Page 4 of 30
MINE RECLAMATION BACKFILL. A backfill placed in a former open -pit mine for the purpose of reclaiming the
site to support future structures.
MINING. The operations associated with the excavation and processing of natural soil and rock and
permitted under the California Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975(SMARA).
PERMITTEE. See Section J105.6.
PRIVATE SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM. A septic tank with effluent discharging into a subsurface disposal field,
into one or more seepage pits, or into a combination of a subsurface disposal field and a seepage pit or of such
other facilities as may be permitted in accordance with the procedures and requirements set forth in Title 28 -
Plumbing Code -- of the Los Angeles County Code and as required by the Los Angeles County Department of Public
Health.
PROJECT CONSULTANTS. The professional consultants required by this Code, which may consist of the
Design Engineer, Field Engineer, Soils Engineer, Engineering Geologist, and Landscape Architect as applicable to
this Appendix.
PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION. The inspection required by this Code to be performed by the Project
Consultants. Such inspections shall be sufficient to form an opinion relating to the conduct of the work.
QSD. Qualified SWPPP Developer as defined in the California State Construction General Permit.
QSP. Qualified SWPPP Practitioner as defined in the California State Construction General Permit.
SETTLEMENT BULLETIN. Irwindale Mining Bulletin NoA, Settlement of Mine Backfills, November 22, 2022
SMARA. California Surface Mining And Reclamation Act of 1975.
SITE. A lot or parcel of land or contiguous combination thereof, under the same ownership, where grading is
performed or permitted.
SLOPE. An inclined surface, the inclination of which is expressed as a ratio of horizontal distance to vertical
distance.
SOIL. Naturally occurring superficial deposits overlying parent bedrock.
SOILS ENGINEER (GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER). A licensed civil engineer experienced and knowledgeable in
the practice of soils engineering.
SOILS ENGINEERING (GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING). The application of the principles of soils mechanics in
the investigation, evaluation, and design of civil works involving the use of earth materials and the inspection or
testing of construction thereof.
STOCKPILING. Placement of fill for temporary storage purposes.
STORM DRAIN SYSTEM. A conveyance or system of conveyances, including roads with drainage systems,
municipal streets, catch basins, curbs, gutters, ditches, and man-made channels, designed or used for collecting
and conveying storm water.
STORM WATER POLLUTION PREVENTION PLAN (SWPPP). A site drawing with details, notes, and related
documents that identify the measures proposed by the permittee to: (1) control erosion and prevent sediment and
construction -related pollutants from being carried offsite by storm water, and (2) prevent non -storm -water
discharges from entering the storm drain system.
SURFACE DRAINAGE. Flows over the ground surface.
SOIL TESTING AGENCY. An agency regularly engaged in the testing of soils and rock under the direction of a
Civil Engineer experienced in soil testing.
(Supp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created; 2922-08-26 09:3O:Se [EST]
Page 5 of 30
TERRACE. A relatively level step constructed in the face of a graded slope for drainage and maintenance
purposes.
UNDERWATER ENGINEERED FILL: An engineered fill placed below the free water level, such as in a
groundwater lake located at the bottom of an open -pit mine.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 80, 2019.)
SECTION J103 PERMITS REQUIRED
J103.1 Permits required.
Except as exempted in Section J103.2, grading shall not be performed without first having obtained a permit from
the Building Official. A grading permit does not include the construction of retaining walls or other structures. A
separate permit shall be obtained for each site and may cover both excavations and fills. Any engineered grading
as described in Section J104.2.3 shall be performed by a contractor licensed by the State of California to perform
the work described hereon. Regular grading less than 5,000 cubic yards may require a licensed contractor if the
Building Official determines that special conditions or hazards exist.
Mine reclamation backfills shall be permitted under the special provisions of a mine reclamation backfill permit.
The plan check and permit fee for this grading permit for mine reclamation fills will be subject to a fee schedule
adopted and approved by the City Council.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 81, 2019.)
J103.2 Exemptions.
A grading permit shall not be required for the following:
1. When approved by the Building Official, grading in an isolated, self-contained area, provided that the public
is not endangered and that such grading will not adversely affect adjoining properties or public rights of way.
2. Excavation for construction of a structure permitted under this code.
3. Cemetery graves.
4. Refuse disposal sites, controlled by other regulations.5. Excavations for wells, or trenches for utilities.
6. Mining, quarrying, excavating, processing or stockpiling rock, sand, gravel, aggregate, or clay, and related
mining operations, provided such operations are conducted under the auspices of an approved conditional
use permit and reclamation plan issued by the City of Irwindale.
7. Exploratory excavations performed under the direction of a Geotechnical Engineer or Engineering Geologist.
This shall not exempt grading of access roads or pads created for exploratory excavations. Exploratory
excavations must not create a hazardous condition to adjacent properties or the public in accordance with
Section J101.3. A restoration plan must be provided and approved by the Building Official for all grading of
access roads or pads. Restoration shall be completed within 90 days after the completion of soils testing
unless otherwise approved by the Building Official.
8. An excavation that does not exceed 50 cubic yards (38.3 m3) and complies with one of the following
conditions and as shown in Figure J103.2:
(a) is less than 2 feet (0.6 m) in depth.
(Sapp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created: 2022-08-26 09:30:50 [EST]
Page 6 of 30
(b) Does not create a cut slope greater than 5 feet (1.5 m) measured vertically upward from the cut
surface to the surface of the natural grade and is not steeper than 2 units horizontal to 1 unit vertical
(50 percent slope).
9. A fill not intended to support a structure that does not obstruct a drainage course and complies with one of
the following conditions and as shown in Figure J103.2:
(a) Is less than 1 foot (0.3 m) in depth and is placed on natural terrain with a slope flatter than 5 units
horizontal to 1 unit vertical (20 percent slope).
(b) Is less than 3 feet (0.9 m) in depth at its deepest point measured vertically upward from natural grade
to the surface of the fill, does not exceed 50 cubic yards, and creates a fill slope no steeper than 2 units
horizontal to 1 unit vertical (50 percent slope).
(c) Is less than 5 feet (1.5 m) in depth at its deepest point measured vertically upward from natural grade
to the surface of the fill, does not exceed 20 cubic yards, and creates a fill slope no steeper than 2 units
horizontal to 1 unit vertical (50 percent slope).
Exemption from the permit requirements of this Appendix shall not be deemed to grant authorization for
any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this Code or any other laws or ordinances of
this jurisdiction.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 81, 2019.)
J103.3 Unpermitted grading.
A person shall not own, use, occupy, or maintain any site containing unpermitted grading. For the purposes of this
Code, unpermitted grading shall be defined as either of the following:
(1) Grading that was performed, at any point in time, without the required permit(s) having first been obtained
from the Building Official, pursuant to Section J103.1; or
(2) Grading for which a permit was obtained pursuant to this Section, but which was not completed, pursuant to
Section J105, prior to the expiration of the permit, pursuant to Section 106.5.4.
Any fill placed without a grading permit, including those exempted by Section J103.2, is considered to be
uncertified and not suitable for structural support. No building permits will be issued for structures on such fills,
and such fills cannot subsequently be accepted under Sections 104.2.7, 104.2.8, or J112 of this Code. All such fills
must be removed and recompacted or otherwise remediated under the auspices of a grading permit before any
building permits can be issued.
Exception: The Building Official may accept unpermitted fills that consist entirely of hydraulically -placed waste
materials generated from an aggregate processing operation if the Permittee submits a geotechnical
investigation that assesses the extent and engineering characteristics of such a fill, along with a remediation
plan
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 81, 2019.)
J103.4 Availability of permit at site.
No person shall perform any grading that requires a permit under this Appendix unless a copy of the grading
permit and approved grading plans are in the possession of a responsible person and available at the site for the
Building Official's reference.
(Supp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created: 2022-08-26 04:30:50 [EST]
Page 7 of 30
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 81, 2019.)
J103.5 Grading fees.
Fees shall be assessed in accordance with the provisions of this Section. The amount of the fees shall be as
specified in Section 107.
I. Plan Review Fees. When a plan or other data are required to be submitted, a plan review fee shall be paid at
the time of submitting plans and specifications for review. Separate plan review fees shall apply to retaining
walls or major drainage structures as required elsewhere in this Code. For excavation and fill on the same
site, the fee shall be based on the volume of excavation or fill, whichever is greater.
2. Permit Fees. A fee for each grading permit shall be paid to the Building Official at the time of issuance of the
permit. Separate permits and fees shall apply to retaining walls or major drainage structures as required
elsewhere in this Code.
3. Site Inspection Fee. When the Building Official finds that a visual inspection of the site is necessary to
establish drainage requirements for the protection of property, existing buildings, or the proposed
construction, a site inspection shall be made during plan check of grading plans. A fee for such inspection
shall be paid to the Building Official at the time of submitting plans and specifications for review.
(Ord. 2019-00S6 § 81, 2019.)
J103.6 Compliance with zoning code.
The Building Official may refuse to issue a grading permit for work on a site if either the proposed grading or the
proposed land use for the site shown on the grading plan application does not comply with the provisions of Title
17 of the City of Irwindale Municipal Code.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 81, 2019.)
J103.7 Grading security.
J103.7.1 Scope and purpose.
The Building Official may require a permittee or the owner(s) of the property on which the grading is proposed to
occur to provide security, as a condition of the issuance of a grading permit for any grading involving more than
1,000 cubic yards (764.6 m3 ). Where unusual conditions or special hazards exist, the Building Official may require
security for grading involving less than 1,000 cubic yards (764.6 m3 ). The purpose of the security shall be to
guarantee the permittee's obligation to mitigate any hazardous conditions, including flood and geotechnical
hazards, that may be created if the grading is not completed in accordance with the approved plans and
specifications, and to complete any work that the Building Official determines is necessary to bring the property
into compliance with this Appendix.
Security required by this Section may include incidental off -site grading on property contiguous with the site
to be developed, provided written consent of the owner of such contiguous property is filed with the Building
Official.
The Building Official may waive the requirements for security for the following:
1. Grading being done by or for a governmental agency.
(Sapp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created; 2022-06-26 09:30:50 JEST]
Page 8 of 30
2. Grading necessary to remove a geotechnical hazard, where such work is covered by an agreement and
security is posted pursuant to the City of Irwindale "Subdivision Ordinance" or to the provisions of Title 21-
Subdivisions - of the Los Angeles County Code.
3. Grading on a site, not exceeding a slope of three units horizontal to one unit vertical, provided such grading
as determined by the Building Official will not affect drainage from or to adjacent properties.
4. Filling of holes or depressions, provided such grading will not affect the drainage from or to adjacent
properties.
5. Mine reclamation backfills placed under the auspices of a Reclamation Flan approved by the City of
Irwindale, providing that there is sufficient SMARA approved financial assurances posted for such
reclamation.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 81, 2019.)
J103.7.2 Form of security.
The security referred to in Section J103.7.1 shall be in one of the following forms:
1. A bond furnished by a corporate surety authorized to do business in this state.
2. Cash.
3. Savings and loan certificates or shares deposited and assigned to the City of Irwindale or to the County as
provided in Chapter 4.36 of Title 4 - Revenue and Finance - of the Los Angeles County Code, if the County of
Los Angeles is acting as the authorized representative of the City of Irwindale.
4. An instrument of credit from a financial institution subject to regulation by the state or federal government
and pledging that funds in the amount required by the Building Official are on deposit and guaranteed for
payment, or a letter of credit is issued by such a financial institution.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 81, 2019.)
J103.7.3 Amount of security.
The amount of security shall be based on the number of cubic yards of material in either excavation or fill,
whichever is greater, and the cost of all drainage or other protective devices or work necessary to eliminate
potential flooding and geotechnical hazards. That portion of the security valuation based on the volume of
material in either excavation or fill shall be computed as follows:
100,000 cubic yards or less - 50 percent of the estimated cost of grading work.
Over 100,000 cubic yards - 50 percent of the cost of the first 100,000 cubic yards plus 25 percent of the
estimated cost of that portion in excess of 100,000 cubic yards.
When the rough grading has been completed in conformance with the requirements of this Code, the
Building Official may, at his or her discretion, consent to a proportionate reduction of the security to an amount
estimated to be adequate to ensure completion of the grading work, site development, or planting remaining to be
performed. The costs referred to in this Section shall be as estimated by the Building Official.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 81, 2019.)
(Supp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created: 2022-08-26 09:30:50 [EST]
Page 9 of 30
J103.7.4 Conditions.
All security shall include the conditions that the principal shall:
1. Comply with all of the provisions of this Code, applicable laws, and ordinances;
2. Comply with all of the terms and conditions of the grading permit, and
Complete all of the work authorized by the permit.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 81, 2019.)
J103.7.5 Term of security.
The term of each security shall begin upon the filing with the Building Official, and the security shall remain in
effect until the work authorized by the grading permit is completed and approved by the Building Official.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 81, 2019.)
J103.7.6 Default procedures.
In the event any grading for which a permit has been issued is not completed in accordance with the approved
plans and specifications for said work or with all terms and conditions of the grading permit, the Building Official
may declare that a default has occurred. The Building Official shall give notice thereof to the principal and surety or
financial institution executing the security, or to the owner in the case of a cash bond or assignment.
The Building Official may thereafter determine the work that is necessary to mitigate any hazardous or
unsafe conditions on the site and cause such work to be performed.
Where the security consists of a bond or instrument of credit, the surety or financial institution executing the
security shall be responsible for the payment of all costs and expenses incurred by the Building Official in causing
such work to be performed, up to the full amount of the security. In the case of cash security or assignment, the
Building Official may pay all costs and expenses incurred in causing such work to be performed from the funds
deposited and return any unused portion of such deposit or funds to the person making said deposit or
assignment.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 81, 2019.)
J103.7.7 Right of entry.
The Building Official or the authorized representative of any surety company or financial institution furnishing the
security shall have access to the premises described in the permit for the purpose of inspecting the work.
In the event of default, as described in Section J103.7.6, the surety or financial institution furnishing the
security, or the Building Official, or any person employed or engaged on the behalf of any of these parties, shall
have the right to go upon the premises to perform the mitigation work, as described in Section J103.7.6.
Neither the permittee, owner, or any other person shall interfere with or obstruct the ingress into or egress
from any such premises of any authorized representative of the surety or financial institution executing the
security or the Building Official engaged to perform the mitigation work, as described in Section J103.7.6.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 81, 2019.)
(Supp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created: 2022-08-26 09:30:50 [EST]
Page 10 of 30
EXCAVATIONS
FILLS
• NOT INTENDED TO SUPPORT STRUCTURES
- DO NOT ORSTRUCTA DRAINAGE COURSE
FILL PLACED ON
-
NATURAL GRADE
O�IfT
ANE%CAVATIOIJ
W CF11S LESS
NATURAL GRACE _ r
NOT STEEPER
TNAN 1:I AND
THAN2 FF IN�-
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J k
DEMAND
N<L
DEEP
i NATURAL GgAGE
DOES NOTpi
ExCEEUSUGY
FILL LESS THAN
r
�50 CY
3 7 DEEP AT In
DEEPESTPOiNT
TNATCOESNOT
FxGEE05E1CY
01 FT
F j�
+'
AN E%CAVATtON
_ _NATURAL GRADE
MEN CREATES
A CUT SLOPE
NATURALGRAOE—) ` 1
ICY
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T
FILLLESS:M
XEIGNT. NOT
�� 1r-�
EFT DEEP AT ITS
-�'---""""'y2-""' 1
STEEPER THAR
2A. AND DOES
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NOTE%CEEO
<Ep GY
ES NOT
THAT DOES NOT
EACEE020CY
y `NATEIRAL GR40£
E0CY
FIGURE 1103.2
GRADING EXEMPTION CASES
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 82, 2019.)
SECTION J104 PERMIT APPLICATION AND SUBMITTALS
J104.1 Submittal requirements.
In addition to the provisions of Section 106.4, the applicant shall state the following:
1. The estimated quantities of excavation, fill, borrow, removal, or combination thereof.
2. The proposed land use for the site on which the grading is to be performed.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 83, 2019.)
J104.2 Site plan requirements.
In addition to the provisions of Section 106, a grading plan shall show the existing grade and finished grade in
contour intervals of sufficient clarity to indicate the nature and extent of the work and show in detail that it
complies with the requirements of this Code. The plans shall show the existing grade on adjoining properties in
sufficient detail to identify how grade changes will conform to the requirements of this Code.
As with the Grading Permit for Mine Reclamation Fills, the applicant shall prepare a Backfilling and Operation Plan
for the both Underwater and/or Above -Water Fill operations in accordance with the City's Guidelines for each
respective fill operations. Also required as part of this Backfilling and Operation Plan submittal package is a
complete site specific geotechnical evaluation report prepared in accordance with City's Guidelines For Above -
water Backfilling of Open Pit Mines or the Guidelines for Underwater Backfilling For Open -Pit Mines.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 83, 2019.)
J104.2.1. Grading designation.
1. Grading above the groundwater table of natural soils involving less than 5,000 cubic yards (3825 m3) and
that will not support any structure shall be designated "regular grading" unless the permittee chooses to
have the grading be designated as engineered grading, or the Building Official determines that, due to the
existence of special conditions or unusual hazards, the grading should be designated as engineered
(Supp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created: 2022-08-26 09:30:50 [EST]
Page 11 of 30
grading.
2. Grading above the groundwater table using natural soils in excess of 5,000 cubic yards (3825 m3) or that
involving less than 5,000 cubic yards (3825 m3) which is proposed to support any structure shall be
designated as "engineered grading." All engineered grading shall be performed in accordance with an
approved grading plan and specifications prepared by a civil engineer, unless otherwise required by the
Building Official.
3. Grading involving placement of inert debris fill above the groundwater table shall be designated as an
"above -water inert debris engineered fill". These include, but are not limited to, all above -water inert
debris engineered fills placed under the auspices of Title 14, Section 17388 of the California Code of
Regulations.
4. Grading involving placement of fill below the groundwater table using any materials shall be designated
as an "underwater engineered fill". These include, but are not limited to, all underwater inert debris engineered
fills placed under the auspices of Title 14, Section 17388 of the California Code of Regulations. .
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 83, 2019.)
J104.2.2 Regular grading requirements.
In addition to the provisions of Sections 106 and J104.2, an application for a regular grading permit shall be
accompanied by plans of sufficient clarity to indicate the nature and extent of the work. The plans shall give the
location of the work, the name of the owner, and the name of the person who prepared the plan. The plan shall
include the following information:
1. General vicinity of the proposed site.
2. Limits and depths of cut and fill.
3. Location of any buildings or structures where work is to be performed, and the location of any buildings or
structures within 15 feet (4.6 m) of the proposed grading.
4. Contours, flow areas, elevations, or slopes that define existing and proposed drainage patterns.
5. Storm water mitigation measures in accordance with the requirements of Section 106.4.3 of this Code. See
Section J110.8 for specific requirements.
6. Location of existing and proposed utilities, drainage facilities, and recorded public and private easements and
restricted use areas.
7. Location of all recorded floodways as established by Chapter 11.60 of Title 11- Health and Safety - of the Los
Angeles County Code.
S. Location of all Special Flood Hazard Areas as designated and defined in Title 44 of the Code of Federal
Regulations.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 83, 2019.)
J104.2.3 Engineered grading requirements.
In addition to the provisions of Sections 106 and J104.2, an application for a permit for engineered grading shall be
accompanied by plans and specifications, and supporting data consisting of a geotechnical report and engineering
geology report.
Specifications shall contain information covering construction and material requirements. Plans shall be
drawn to scale on paper and shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the nature and extent of the work proposed
(5upp. No. 134, update 2)
Created: 2022-08-26 09730:50 [EST]
Page 12 of 30
and shall show in detail that the proposed work will conform to the provisions of this Code and all relevant laws,
ordinances, rules, and regulations. The first sheet of the plans shall depict the location of the proposed work, the
name and address of the owner, and the person by whom they were prepared.
The plans shall include or be accompanied by the following information:
1. General vicinity of the proposed site.
2. Property limits and accurate contours of existing ground and details of terrain and area drainage.
3. Limiting dimensions, elevations, or finish contours to be achieved by the grading, proposed drainage
channels, and related construction.
4. Detailed plans of all surface and subsurface drainage devices, walls, cribbing, dams, and other protective
devices to be constructed with, or as a part of, the proposed work. A map showing the drainage area and the
estimated runoff of the area served by any drains shall also be provided.
5. Location of any existing or proposed buildings or structures located on the property on which the work is to
be performed and the location of any buildings or structures on adjacent properties that are within 15 feet
(4.6 m) of the property or that may be affected by the proposed grading operations.
6. Recommendations in the geotechnical report and the engineering geology report shall be incorporated into
the grading plans or specifications. When approved by the Building Official, specific recommendations
contained in the soils engineering report and the engineering geology report, that are applicable to grading,
may be included by reference.
7. The dates of the geotechnical and engineering geology reports together with the names, addresses, and
phone numbers of the firms or individuals who prepared the reports.
8. A statement of the quantities of material to be excavated and/or filled. Earthwork quantities shall include
quantities for geotechnical and geological remediation. In addition, a statement of the quantities of material
to be imported or exported from the site.
9. A statement of the estimated starting and completion dates for proposed work.
10. A statement signed by the owner, acknowledging that a Design Engineer, Field Engineer, Geotechnical
Engineer, and Engineering Geologist, when appropriate, will be employed to perform the services required
by this Code, when the Building Official requires that such professional persons be so employed. These
acknowledgments shall be on a form furnished by the Building Official.
11. Storm water mitigation measures are required to be shown on the grading plan in accordance with the
requirement of Section 106.4.3 of this Code. See Section J110.8 for specific requirements.
12. A drainage plan for those portions of property proposed to be utilized as a building site (building pad),
including elevations of floors with respect to finish site grade and locations of proposed stoops, slabs, and
fences that may affect drainage.
13. Location and type of any proposed private sewage disposal system, including the location of the expansion
area.
14. Location of existing and proposed utilities, drainage facilities, and recorded public and private easements and
restricted use areas.
15. Location of all recorded floodways as established by Chapter 11.60 of Title 11- Health and Safety - of the Los
Angeles County Code.
16. Location of all Special Flood Hazard Areas as designated and defined in Title 44 of the Code of Federal
Regulations.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 83, 2019.)
(Sapp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created: 2022-08-26 W:30:50 JEST]
Page 13 of 30
J104.2.4 Above -Water Inert Debris Engineered Fill Requirements.
All above -water inert debris engineered fills shall be designed, permitted, and constructed in accordance with the
Guidelines for Abo ve- Water Backfilling of open Pit Mines, Irwindale, California, and Irwindale Mining Bulletin No.1,
Settlement of Mine Backfills. if specific provisions of these Guidelines conflict with any other provisions of this
Appendix, the Guidelines shall govern.
J104.2.5 Underwater Engineered Fill Requirements.
All underwater fills shall be designed, permitted, and constructed in accordance with the Guidelines for
Underwater Backfilling of open Pit Mines, Irwindale, California, and Irwindale Mining Bulletin No.1, Settlement of
Mine Backfills. If specific provisions of these Guidelines conflict with any other provisions of this Appendix, the
Guidelines shall govern.
J104.3 Geotechnical and engineering geology reports.
The geotechnical report required by Section J104.2.3 shall include data regarding the nature, distribution, and
strength of existing soils, conclusions, and recommendations for grading procedures and design criteria for
corrective measures, including buttress fills, when necessary, and an opinion on the adequacy for the intended use
of sites to be developed by the proposed grading as affected by geotechnical factors, including the stability of
slopes. All reports shall conform with the requirements of Section 111 and shall be subject to review by the
Building Official. Supplemental reports and data may be required as the Building Official may deem necessary.
Recommendations included in the reports and approved by the Building Official shall be incorporated in the
grading plan or specifications.
The engineering geology report required by Section J104.2.3 shall include an adequate description of the
geology of the site, conclusions, and recommendations regarding the effect of geologic conditions on the proposed
development, and an opinion on the adequacy for the intended use of sites to be developed by the proposed
grading, as affected by geologic factors. The engineering geology report shall include a geologic map and cross
sections utilizing the most recent grading plan as a base. Ali reports shall conform with the requirements of Section
111 and shall be subject to review by the Building Official. Supplemental reports and data may be required as the
Building Official may deem necessary. Recommendations included in the reports and approved by the Building
Official shall be incorporated in the grading plan or specifications.
Exception: A geotechnical or engineering geology report is not required where the Building Official
determines that the nature of the work applied for is such that a report is not necessary.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 83, 2019.)
J104.4 Liquefaction study.
For sites with mapped maximum considered earthquake spectral response accelerations at short periods (S s )
greater than 0.5g as determined by Section 1613, a study of the liquefaction potential of the site shall be provided
and the recommendations incorporated in the plans. A geotechnical Investigation will be required when the
proposed work is a "Project" as defined in California Public Resources Code section 2693, and is located in an area
designated as a "Seismic Hazard Zone" as defined in section 3722 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations
and on Seismic Hazard Zone Maps issued by the State Geologist under Public Resources Code section 2696.
Exception: A liquefaction study is not required where the Building Official determines from established local
data that the liquefaction potential is low.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 83, 2019.)
(Supp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created; 2022-08-26 09:30:50 [EST]
Page 14 of 30
SECTION J105 INSPECTIONS
J105.1 General.
Grading inspections shall be governed by Section 108 and as indicated herein. Grading operations for which a
permit is required shall be subject to inspection by the Building Official. In addition, professional inspection of
grading operations shall be performed by the Field Engineer, the Geotechnical Engineer, and the Engineering
Geologist retained to provide such services in accordance with this Section for engineered grading and as required
by the Building Official for regular grading.
Grading inspections for above -water inert debris engineered fills and underwater engineered fills shall be in
accordance with the Guidelines for Above -Water Backfilling of Open -Pit Mines, Irwindale, California, or the
Guidelines far Underwater Backfilling of Open -Pit Mines, Irwindale, California, respectively.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 84, 2019.)
J105.2 Special and supplemental inspections.
The special inspection requirements of Section 1705.6 shall apply to work performed under a grading permit
where required by the Building Official. In addition to the called inspections specified in Section J105.7, the
Building Official may make such other inspections as may be deemed necessary to determine that the work is
being performed in conformance with the requirements of this Code. The Building Official may require
investigations and reports by an approved soil testing agency, Geotechnical Engineer and/or Engineering Geologist,
and Field Engineer. Inspection reports shall be provided when requested in writing by the Building Official.
The Building Official may require continuous inspection of drainage devices by the Field Engineer in
accordance with this Section when the Building Official determines that the drainage devices are necessary for the
protection of the structures in accordance with Section 110.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 84, 2019.)
J105.3 Field engineer.
The Field Engineer shall provide professional inspection of those parts of the grading project within such engineer's
area of technical specialty, oversee and coordinate all field surveys, set grade stakes, and provide site inspections
during grading operations to ensure the site is graded in accordance with the approved grading plan and the
appropriate requirements of this Code. During site grading, and at the completion of both rough grading and final
grading, the Field Engineer shall submit statements and reports as required by Sections J105.11 and J105.12. If
revised grading plans are required during the course of the work, they shall be prepared by a Civil Engineer and
approved by the Building Official.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 84, 2019.)
J105.4 Geotechnical engineer.
The Geotechnical Engineer shall provide professional inspection of those parts of the grading project within such
engineer's area of technical specialty, which shall include observation during grading and testing for required
compaction. The Geotechnical Engineer shall provide sufficient observation during the preparation of the natural
ground and placement and compaction of the fill to verify that such work is being performed in accordance with
the conditions of the approved plan and the appropriate requirements of this Appendix. If conditions differing
(5upp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created: 2022-08-26 09:30:50 [EST]
Page 15 of 30
from the approved geotechnical engineering and engineering geology reports are encountered during grading, the
Geotechnical Engineer shall provide revised recommendations to the permittee, the Building Official, and the Field
Engineer.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 84, 2019.)
1105.5 Engineering geologist.
The Engineering Geologist shall provide professional inspection of those parts of the grading project within such
engineer's area of technical specialty, which shall include professional inspection of the bedrock excavation to
determine if conditions encountered are in conformance with the approved report. If conditions differing from the
approved engineering geology report are encountered, the Engineering Geologist shall provide revised
recommendations to the Geotechnical Engineer.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 84, 2019.)
J1O5.6 Permittee.
The permittee shall be responsible for ensuring that the grading is performed in accordance with the approved
plans and specifications and in conformance with the provisions of this Code. The permittee shall engage project
consultants, if required under the provisions of this Code, to provide professional inspections on a timely basis. The
permittee shall act as a coordinator between the project consultants, the contractor, and the Building Official. In
the event of changed conditions, the permittee shall be responsible for informing the Building Official of such
change and shall provide revised plans for approval.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 84, 2019.)
J105.7 Required inspections.
The permittee shall call for an inspection by the Building Official at the following various stages of work and shall
obtain the approval of the Building Official prior to proceeding to the next stage of work:
Pre -grade. Before any construction or grading activities occur at the site. Permittee shall schedule a pre -
grade inspection with the Building Official. The permittee shall ensure that all project consultants are present at
the pre -grade inspection.
Initial grade. When the site has been cleared of vegetation and unapproved fill, and has been scarified,
benched, or otherwise prepared for fill. No fill shall have been placed prior to this inspection.
Rough grade. When approximate final elevations have been established, drainage terraces, swales, and
other drainage devices necessary for the protection of the building sites from flooding have been installed, berms
have been installed at the top of the slopes, and the statements required by Section 1105.12 have been received.
Final grade. When grading has been completed, all drainage devices necessary to drain the building pad have
been installed, slope planting has been established, irrigation systems have been installed, and the as -built plans
and required statements and reports have been submitted.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 84, 2019.)
(5upp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created; 2022-08-26 09:30:50 [EST]
Page 16 of 30
J105.8 Notification of noncompliance.
if, in the course of fulfilling their respective duties under this Appendix, the Field Engineer, the Geotechnical
Engineer, or the Engineering Geologist determines that the work is not being done in conformance with this
Appendix or the approved grading plans, the Field Engineer, the Geotechnical Engineer, or the Engineering
Geologist shall immediately report, in writing, the discrepancies and the recommended corrective measures to the
permittee and to the Building Official.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 84, 2019.)
J105.9 Transfer of responsibility.
If the Field Engineer, the Geotechnical Engineer, or the Engineering Geologist of record is changed at any time
after the grading plans required pursuant to Section J104.2.2 or J104.2.3 have been approved by the Building
Official, the permittee shall immediately provide written notice of such change to the Building Official. The Building
Official may stop the grading from commencing or continuing until the permittee has identified a replacement and
the replacement has agreed in writing to assume responsibility for those parts of the grading project that are
within the replacement's area of technical competence.
For mine reclamation backfills, if the Field Engineer, the Geotechnical Engineer, or the Engineering Geologist of
record is changed at any time after the grading has commenced, the Permittee shall stop grading and notify the
Building Official in writing within 48 hours. The Permittee shall not commence any grading until a replacement has
been approved by the Building Official and the replacement has agreed in writing to assume responsibility,
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 84, 2019.)
J105.10 Non -inspected grading.
No person shall own, use, occupy, or maintain any non -inspected grading. For the purposes of this Code, non -
inspected grading shall be defined as any grading for which a grading permit was first obtained, pursuant to
Section J103, above, but which has progressed beyond any point requiring inspection and approval by the Building
Official without such inspection and approval having been obtained.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 84, 2019.)
J105.11 Routine field inspections and reports.
Unless otherwise directed by the Building Official, the Field Engineer for all engineered grading projects shall
prepare routine inspection reports and shall file these reports with the Building Official as follows:
1. Bi-weekly during all times when grading of 400 cubic yards or more per week is occurring on the site;
2. Monthly, at all other times; and
3. At any time when requested in writing by the Building Official.
Such reports shall certify to the Building Official that the Field Engineer has inspected the grading site and
related activities and has found them in compliance with the approved grading plans and specifications, this Code,
all grading permit conditions, and all other applicable ordinances and requirements. The reports shall conform to a
standard "Report of Grading Activities" form, which shall be provided by the Building Official.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 84, 2019.)
(Supp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created; 2022-08-25 09:30:50 [EST]
Page 17 of 30
J1O5.11.1 Above -Wafer Inert Debris Fills and Underwater Fills.
Unless otherwise directed by the Building Official, reports for above -water inert debris fills and for underwater fills
shall be in accordance with the Guidelines for Above -Water Backfilling of Open -Pit Mines, Irwindale, California, or
the Guidelines for Underwater Backfilling of Open -Pit Mines, Irwindale, California, respectively.
J105.12 Completion of work.
Upon completion of the rough grading work and at the final completion of the work, the following reports and
drawings and supplements thereto are required for engineered grading or when professional inspection is
otherwise required by the Building Official:
1. An "as -built" grading plan prepared by the Field Engineer retained to provide such services in accordance
with Section J105.3 showing all plan revisions as approved by the Building Official. This shall include original
ground surface elevations, as -built ground surface elevations, lot drainage patterns, and the locations and
elevations of surface drainage facilities and the outlets of subsurface drains. As -built locations, elevations,
and details of subsurface drains shall be shown as reported by the Geotechnical Engineer.
The as -built grading plan shall be accompanied by a certification by the Field Engineer that to the best of his
or her knowledge, the work within the Field Engineer's area of responsibility was done in accordance with the final
approved grading plan.
2. A report prepared by the Geotechnical Engineer retained to provide such services in accordance with Section
J105.4, including locations and elevations of field density tests, summaries of field and laboratory tests, other
substantiating data, and comments on any changes made during grading and their effect an the
recommendations made in the approved geotechnical engineering investigation report. The report shall
include a certification by the Geotechnical Engineer that, to the best of his or her knowledge, the work within
the Geotechnical Engineer's area of responsibility is in accordance with the approved geotechnical
engineering report and applicable provisions of this Appendix. The report shall contain a finding regarding
the safety of the completed grading and any proposed structures against hazard from landslide, settlement,
or slippage.
3. A report prepared by the Engineering Geologist retained to provide such services in accordance with Section
1105.5, including a final description of the geology of the site and any new information disclosed during the
grading and the effect of such new information, if any, on the recommendations incorporated in the
approved grading plan. The report shall contain a certification by the Engineering Geologist that, to the best
of his or her knowledge, the work within the Engineering Geologist's area of responsibility is in accordance
with the approved engineering geology report and applicable provisions of this Appendix. The report shall
contain a finding regarding the safety of the completed grading and any proposed structures against hazard
from landslide, settlement, or slippage. The report shall contain a final as -built geologic map and cross -
sections depicting all the information collected prior to and during grading.
4. The grading contractor shall certify, on a form prescribed by the Building Official, that the grading conforms
to said as -built plan and the approved specifications.
5. When a landscape permit is required by Section 490.1 of the California Department of Water Resources
Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance, the Landscape Architect shall certify on a form prescribed by
the Building Official that the landscaping conforms to approved landscape plans and specifications.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 84, 2019.)
(Supp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created: 2022-08-26 09:30:51 [EST]
Page 18 of 30
J105.13 Notification of completion.
The permittee shall notify the Building Official when the grading operation is ready for final inspection. Final
approval shall not be given until all work, including installation of all drainage facilities and their protective devices,
and all erosion -control measures, have been completed in accordance with the final approved grading plan, and all
required reports have been submitted and approved.
Upon completion of the requirements of Section J105.12 and J105.13 to the satisfaction of the Building Official, all
fills placed during the permitted grading are considered to be certified.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 84, 2019.)
J105.14 Change of ownership.
Unless otherwise required by the Building Official, when a grading permit has been issued on a site and the owner
sells the property prior to final grading approval, the new property owner shall be required to obtain a new
grading permit.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 84, 2019.)
SECTION J106 EXCAVATIONS
J106.1 Maximum cut slope.
The slope of cut surfaces shall be no steeper than is safe for the intended use, and shall be not more than one unit
vertical in two units horizontal (50 percent slope) unless the owner or the owner's authorized agent furnishes a
geotechnical or an engineering geology report, or both, justifying a steeper slope. The reports must contain a
statement by the Geotechnical Engineer or Engineering Geologist that the site was investigated and an opinion
that a steeper slope will be stable and will not create a hazard to public or private property, in conformance with
the requirements of Section 111. The Building Official may require the slope of the cut surfaces to be flatter in
slope than 2 units horizontal to 1 unit vertical if the Building Official finds it necessary for the stability and safety of
the slope.
Exception: A cut surface shall be permitted to be at a slope of 1.5 units horizontal to one unit vertical (67
percent slope) provided that all of the following are met:
1. It is not intended to support structures or surcharges.
2. It is adequately protected against erosion.
3. It is no more than 8 feet (2438 mm) in height.
4. it is approved by the Building Official.
S. Ground water is not encountered.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 85, 2019.)
SECTION J107 FILLS
(Supp. No. 134, Update 2)
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Page 19 of 30
J1O7.1 General.
Unless otherwise recommended in the geotechnical report, fills shall comply with the provisions of this Section.
Exception:
1. The Building Official may permit a deviation from the provisions of this Appendix for minor fills not
intended to support structures, where no geotechnical report has been prepared.
2. Above -water inert debris engineered fills and underwater engineered fills are exempt from the provisions
of Section J107 and shall be placed as described in the Guidelines for Above -Water Backfilling of Open -Pit Mines,
Irwindale, California, or the Guidelines far Underwater Backfilling of Open -Pit Mines, Irwindale, California,
respectively.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 86, 2019.)
J1O7.2 Surface Preparation.
Fill slopes shall not be constructed on natural slopes steeper than 2 units horizontal to 1 unit vertical (50 percent
slope). The ground surface shall be prepared to receive fill by removing vegetation, topsoil, and other unsuitable
materials (including any existing fill that does not meet the requirements of this Appendix), and scarifying the
ground to provide a bond with the fill material.
Subdrains shall be provided under all fills placed in natural drainage courses and in other locations where
seepage is evident, except where the Geotechnical Engineer or Engineering Geologist recommends otherwise.
Such sub -drainage systems shall be of a material and design approved by the Geotechnica[ Engineer and
acceptable to the Building Official. The Geotechnical Engineer shall provide continuous inspection during the
process of subdrain installations. The location of the subdrains shall be shown on a plan prepared by the
Geotechnical Engineer. Excavations for the subdrains shall be inspected by the Engineering Geologist when such
subdrains are included in the recommendations of the Engineering Geologist.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 86, 2019.)
J1O7.3 Benching.
Where existing grade is at a slope steeper than one unit vertical in five units horizontal (20 percent slope) and the
depth of the fill exceeds 5 feet (1524 mm), benching shall be provided into sound bedrock or other competent
material as determined by the Geotechnical Engineer in accordance with Figure J107.3, or as determined by the
Geotechnical Engineer. When fill is to be placed over a cut, a key shall be provided that is not less than 10 feet
(3048 mm) in width and 2 feet (610 mm) in depth. The area beyond the toe of fill shall be sloped for sheet
overflow or a paved drain shall be constructed thereon. The Geotechnical Engineer or Engineering Geologist, or
both, shall inspect and approve the cut as being suitable for the foundation and placement of fill material before
any fill material is placed on the excavation.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 86, 2019.)
J1O7.4 Fill material.
Fill material shall not include organic, frozen, or other deleterious materials. Rock or similar irreducible material
greater than 12 inches (305 mm) in any dimension shall not be included in fills.
(Supp. No. 134, update 2)
Created: 2e22-08-26 09:30:51 [EST]
Page 20 of 30
Exception: The Building Official may permit placement of larger rock when the Geotechnical Engineer
properly devises and recommends a method of placement, and continuously inspects the placement and approves
the fill stability. The following requirements shall also apply:
1. Prior to issuance of the grading permit, potential rock disposal areas shall be delineated on the grading plan.
2. Rock sizes greater than 12 inches (0.3 m) in maximum dimension shall be 10 feet (3.0 m) or more below
grade, measured vertically.
3. Rocks shall be placed so as to assure filling of all voids with well -graded soil.
4. The reports submitted by the Geotechnical Engineer shall acknowledge the placement of the oversized
material and whether the work was performed in accordance with the engineer's recommendations and the
approved plans.
5. The location of oversized rock dispersal areas shall be shown on the as -built plan.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 86, 2019.)
J107.5 Compaction.
All fill material shall be compacted to a minimum of 90 percent of maximum density as determined by ASTM
D1557, Modified Proctor, in lifts not exceeding 12 inches (305 mm) in depth within 40 feet (12.2 m) below finished
grade and 93 percent of maximum dry density deeper than 40 feet (12.2 m) below finished grade, unless a lower
relative compaction (not less than 90 percent of maximum dry density) is justified by the Geotechnical Engineer
and approved by the Building Official. Where ASTM D1557, Modified Proctor, is not applicable, a test acceptable to
the Building Official shall be used.
Field density shall be determined by a method acceptable to the Building Official. However, not less than ten
percent of the required density tests, uniformly distributed, shall be obtained by the Sand Cone Method.
Fill slopes steeper than 2 units horizontal to 1 unit vertical (50-percent slope) shall be constructed by the
placement of soil a sufficient distance beyond the proposed finish slope to allow compaction equipment to
operate at the outer surface limits of the final slope surface. The excess fill is to be removed prior to completion or
rough grading. Other construction procedures may be utilized when it is first shown to the satisfaction of the
Building Official that the angle of slope, construction method, and other factors will comply with the intent of this
Section.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 86, 2019.)
J107.6 Maximum slope.
The slope of fill surfaces shall be not steeper than is safe for the intended use. Fill slopes steeper than one unit
vortical in two units horizontal (50-percent slope) shall be justified by geotechnical reports conforming to the
requirements of Section 111, containing a statement by the Geotechnical Engineer that the site has been
investigated and an opinion that a steeper fill slope will be stable and will not create a hazard to public or private
property. Substantiating calculations and supporting data may be required where the Building Official determines
that such information is necessary to verify the stability and safety of the proposed slope. The Building Official may
require the fill slope to be constructed with a face flatter in slope than 2 units horizontal to 1 unit vertical (50-
percent slope) if the Building Official finds it necessary for stability and safety of the slope.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 86, 2019.)
(Supp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created; 2022-09-26 09;30;51 [EST]
Page 21 of 30
J107.7 Slopes to receive fill.
Where fill is to be placed above the top of an existing slope steeper than 3 units horizontal to 1 unit vertical (33-
percent slope), the toe of the fill shall be set back from the top edge of the existing slope a minimum distance of 6
feet (1.8 m) measured horizontally or such other distance as may be specifically recommended by a Geotechnical
Engineer or Engineering Geologist and approved by the Building Official.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 86, 2019.)
J107.8 inspection of fill.
For engineered grading, the Geotechnical Engineer shall provide sufficient inspections during the preparation of
the natural ground and the placement and compaction of the fill to ensure that the work is performed in
accordance with the conditions of plan approval and the appropriate requirements of this Appendix. In addition to
the above, the Geotechnical Engineer shall provide continuous inspection during the entire fill placement and
compaction of fills that will exceed a vertical height or depth of 30 feet (9.1 m) or result in a slope surface steeper
than 2 units horizontal to 1 unit vertical (50-percent slope).
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 86, 2019.)
J107.9 Testing of fills.
Sufficient tests of the fill soils shall be made to determine the density and to verify compliance of the soil
properties with the design requirements. This includes soil types and shear strengths in accordance with Section
J111 Referenced Standards.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 86, 2019.)
SECTION J108 SETBACKS
J108.1 General.
Cut and fill slopes shall be set back from the property lines in accordance with this Section. Setback dimensions
shall be measured perpendicular to the property line and shall be as shown in Figure J108.1, unless substantiating
data is submitted justifying reduced setbacks and reduced setbacks are recommended in a geotechnical
engineering and engineering geology report approved by the Building Official.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 87, 2019.)
J108.2 Top of slope.
The setback at the top of a cut slope shall be not less than that shown in Figure J108.1, or than is required to
accommodate any required interceptor drains, whichever is greater. For graded slopes, the property line between
adjacent lots shall be at the apex of the berm at the top of the slope. Property lines between adjacent lots shall not
be located on a graded slope steeper than 5 units horizontal to 1 unit vertical (20- percent slope).
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 87, 2019.)
Created: 2022-08-26 09:30:51 [EST]
(Supp. No. 134, Update 2)
Page 22 of 30
J108.3 Toe of fill slope protection.
The setback from the toe of a fill slope shall not be less than that shown by Figure J108.1. Where required to
protect adjacent properties at the toe of a slope from adverse effects of the grading, additional protection,
approved by the Building Official, shall be included. Examples of such protection may include but shall not be
limited to:
1. Setbacks greater than those required by Figure J108.1.
2. Provisions for retaining walls or similar construction.
3. Erosion protection of the fill slopes.
4. Provision for the control of surface waters.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 87, 2019.)
J108.4 Alternate setbacks.
The Building Official may approve alternate setbacks if he or she determines that no hazard to life or property will
be created or increased. The Building Official may require an investigation and recommendation by a qualified
engineer or Engineering Geologist to justify any proposed alternate setback.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 87, 2019.)
PROPERTY
LENS
W2BUT 2FT.(0.6m) I TOEOF
MINIMU3• AXO NEED SLOPE
NOTEXCEED 20 FT,
(6.0 m) MAXIMUM .�..-.; ,..�
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 88, 2019.)
PROPERTY
LINE
OF
HI5 BUT 2 FT,(0,6PG
m) TOP
MINIMUM AND NEED SLOPE
NOT EXCEED 10 FT,
(7.0 m) MAXIMUM
I
CUT OR NATURAL
ENGINEERED GRADE
OR FINMHED GRADE
FIGURE J108.1
SETBACK DIMENSIONS
SECTION J109 DRAINAGE AND TERRACING
J109.1 General.
INTERCEPTOR DRAIN
(IF REQUIRED)
Unless otherwise recommended by a licensed Civil Engineer and approved by the Building Official, drainage
facilities and terracing shall be provided in accordance with the requirements of Section J109.2 for all cut and fill
slopes 3 units horizontal to 1 unit vertical (33-percent slope) and steeper.
Created: 2022-08-26 09:30:51 [EST]
(Supp, No. 134, Update 2)
Page 23 of 30
For slopes flatter than 3 units horizontal to 1 unit vertical (33-percent slope) and steeper than 5 units
horizontal to 1 unit vertical (20-percent slope), a paved swale or ditch shall be installed at 30 foot (9.1 m) vertical
intervals to control surface drainage and debris. Swales shall be sized based on contributory area and have
adequate capacity to convey intercepted waters to the point of disposal as defined in Section J109.5. Swales must
be paved with reinforced concrete not less than 3 inches (0.08 m) in thickness, reinforced with 6-inch (0.2 m) by 6-
inch (0.2 m) No. 10 by No. 10 welded wire fabric or equivalent reinforcing centered in the concrete slab or an
equivalent approved by the Building Official. Swales must have a minimum flow line depth of 1 foot (0.3 m) and a
minimum paved width of 18 inches (0.5 m). Swales shall have a minimum gradient of not less than 5 percent.
There shall be no reduction in grade along the direction of flow unless the velocity of flow is such that slope debris
will remain in suspension on the reduced grade.
Exception: Mine sites covered by a conditional use permit and reclamation plan shall use drainage and terracing
that conforms to the Guidelines for Drainage and Erosion Control for Open -Pit Mines, Irwindale, California in lieu of
the requirements outlined in Section J109.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 89, 2019.)
J1O9.2 Drainage terraces.
Drainage terraces not less than 8 feet (2.4 m) in width shall be established at not more than 30-foot (9144 mm)
vertical intervals on all cut or fill slopes to control surface drainage and debris. When only one terrace is required,
It shall be at mid -height. For cut or fill slopes greater than 100 feet (30.5 m) and up to 120 feet (36.6 m) in vertical
height, one terrace at approximately mid -height shall be 20 feet (6.1 m) in width. Terrace widths and spacing for
cut and fill slopes greater than 120 feet (36.6 m) in height shall be designed by the Civil Engineer and approved by
the Building Official. Suitable access shall be provided to permit proper cleaning and maintenance.
Drainage swales on terraces shall have a longitudinal grade of not less than 5 percent nor more than 12
percent and a minimum depth of 1 foot (0.3 m) at the flow line. There shall be no reduction in grade along the
direction of flow unless the velocity of flow is such that slope debris will remain in suspension on the reduced
grade. Drainage swales must be paved with reinforced concrete not less than 3 inches (0.8 m) in thickness,
reinforced with 6-inch (0.2 m) by 6-inch (0.2 m) No. 10 by No. 10 welded wire fabric or equivalent reinforcing
centered in the concrete slab or an approved equal paving. Drainage swales shall have a minimum depth at the
deepest point of 1 foot (0.3 m) and a minimum paved width of 5 feet (1.5 m). Drainage swales on terraces shall be
sized based on contributory area and have adequate capacity to convey intercepted waters to the point of disposal
as defined in Section J109.5. Downdrains or drainage outlets shall be provided at approximately 300 foot (91.4 m)
intervals along the drainage terrace or at equivalent locations. Down drains and drainage outlets shall be of
approved materials and of adequate capacity to convey the intercepted waters to the point of disposal as defined
in Section J109.5.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 89, 2019.)
J1O9.3 Interceptor drains and overflow protection.
Berms, interceptor drains, swales, or other devices shall be installed along the top of cut slopes to prevent surface
waters from overflowing onto and damaging the face of a slope. Berms used for slope protection shall not be less
than 12 inches (0.3 m) above the level of the pad and shall slope back at least 4 feet (1.2 m) from the top of the
slope.
Interceptor drains shall be installed along the top of graded slopes greater than 5 feet in height receiving
drainage from a slope with a tributary width greater than 30 feet (9.1 m), measured horizontally. They shall have a
minimum depth of 1 foot (305 mm) and a minimum width of 3 feet (915 mm). The slope shall be approved by the
(Sapp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created; 2022-08-26 09;30:51 [EST]
Page 24 of 30
Building Official, but shall be not less than one unit vertical in 50 units horizontal (2-percent slope). The drain shall
be paved with concrete not less than 3 inches (76mm) in thickness, or by other materials suitable to the
application, and reinforced as required for drainage terraces. Discharge from the drain shall be accomplished in a
manner to prevent erosion and shall be approved by the Building Official.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 89, 2019.)J109.4 Drainage Across Property Lines.
Drainage across property lines shall not exceed that which existed prior to grading. Excess or concentrated
drainage shall be contained on site or directed to an approved drainage facility. Erosion of the ground in the area
of discharge shall be prevented by installation of nonerosive down drains or other devices.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 89, 2019.)
J109.5 Disposal.
All drainage facilities shall be designed to convey waters to the nearest- practicable street, storm drain, or natural
watercourse or drainage way approved by the Building Official or other appropriate governmental agency,
provided that the discharge of such waters at that location will not create or increase a hazard to life or property.
Erosion of the ground in the area of discharge shall be prevented by installation of non -erosive down drains or
other devices. Desilting basins, filter barriers, or other methods, as approved by the Building Official, shall be
utilized to remove sediments from surface waters before such waters are allowed to enter streets, storm drains, or
natural watercourses. If the drainage device discharges onto natural ground, riprap or a similar energy dissipator
may be required.
Building pads shall have a minimum drainage gradient of 2 percent toward an approved drainage facility or a
public street unless otherwise directed by the Building Official. A lesser slope may be approved by the Building
Official for sites graded in relatively flat terrain, or where special drainage provisions are made, when the Building
Official finds such modification will not result in a hazard to life or property.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 89, 2019.)
SECTION J110 SLOPE PLANTING AND EROSION CONTROL
J110.1 General.
The faces of cut and fill slopes shall be prepared and maintained to control erosion. This control shall consist of
effective planting, erosion control blankets, soil stabilizers, or other means as approved by the Building Official.
Exception:
1. Erosion control measures need not be provided on cut slopes not subject to erosion due to the erosion -
resistant character of the materials, as approved by the Project Consultants to the satisfaction of the Building
Official.
2. Mine sites covered by a conditional use permit and reclamation plan shall use the slope planting and
erosion control measures that conforms to the Guidelines for Drainage and Erosion Control for Open -Pit Mines,
Irwindale, California in lieu of the requirements outlined in Section J110.
Erosion control for the slopes shall be installed as soon as practicable and prior to calling for
final inspection.(Ord. 2019-0056 § 90, 2019.)J110.2 Other Devices.
Where necessary, check dams, cribbing, riprap or other devices or methods shall be employed to control erosion
and provide safety.
(Sapp. No. 134, [update 2)
Created; 2022-08-26 03;30;51 [EST]
Page 25 of 30
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 90, 2019.)
J110.3 Planting.
The surface of all cut slopes more than 5 feet (1.5 m) in height and fill slopes more than 3 feet (0.9 m) in height
shall be protected against damage from erosion by planting with grass or ground cover plants. Slopes exceeding 15
feet (4.6 m) in vertical height shall also be planted with shrubs, spaced at not to exceed 10 feet (3 m) on center, or
trees, spaced at not to exceed 20 feet (6.1 m) on center; or a combination of shrubs and trees at an equivalent
spacing, in addition to the grass or ground cover plants. The plants selected and planting methods used shall be
suitable for the soil and climatic conditions of the site.
Plant material shall be selected that will produce a coverage of permanent planting to effectively control
erosion. Consideration shall be given to deep-rooted plant material needing limited watering, maintenance, high
root to shoot ratio, wind susceptibility, and fire -retardant characteristics. All plant materials must be approved by
the Building Official.
Planting may be modified for the site if specific recommendations are provided by both the Geotechnical
Engineer and a Landscape Architect. Specific recommendations must consider soils and climatic conditions,
irrigation requirements, planting methods, fire -retardant characteristics, water efficiency, maintenance needs, and
other regulatory requirements. Recommendations must include a finding that the alternative planting will provide
a permanent and effective method of erosion control. Modifications to planting must be approved by the Building
Official prior to installation.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 90, 2019.)
J110.4 Irrigation.
Slopes required to be planted by Section J110.3 shall be provided with an approved system of irrigation that is
designed to cover all portions of the slope. Irrigation system plans shall be submitted to and approved by the
Building Official prior to installation. A functional test of the system may be required.
For slopes less than 20 feet (6.1 m) in vertical height, hose bibs to permit hand watering will be acceptable if
such hose bibs are installed at conveniently accessible locations where a hose no longer than 50 feet (15.2 m) is
necessary for irrigation.
Irrigation requirements may be modified for the site if specific recommendations are provided by both the
Geotechnical Engineer and a Landscape Architect. Specific recommendations must consider soils and climatic
conditions, plant types, planting methods, fire -retardant characteristics, water efficiency, maintenance needs, and
other regulatory requirements. Recommendations must include a finding that the alternative irrigation method
will sustain the proposed planting and provide a permanent and effective method of erosion control. Modifications
for irrigation systems must be approved by the Building Official prior to installation.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 90, 2019.)
J110.5 Plans and specifications.
Planting and irrigation plans shall be submitted for slopes that are required to be planted and irrigated pursuant to
Sections J110.3 and J110.4. Except as otherwise required by the Building Official for minor grading, the plans for
slopes 20 feet (6.1 m) or more in vertical height shall be prepared and signed by a Civil Engineer or Landscape
Architect. If requested by the Building Official, planting and irrigation details shall be included on the grading plan.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 90, 2019.)
(5upp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created: 2022-99-26 09:30:51 [E57]
Page 26 of 30
J110.6 Rodent control.
Fill slopes shall be protected from potential slope damage by a preventative program of rodent control.
(Ord. 2019--0056 § 90, 2019.)
J110.7 Release of security.
The planting and irrigation systems required by this Section shall be installed as soon as practical after rough
grading. Prior to final approval of grading and before the release of the grading security, the planting shall be well
established and growing on the slopes and there shall be evidence of an effective rodent control program.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 90, 2019.)
J110.8 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) compliance.
J110.8.1 General.
All grading plans and permits and the owner of any property on which such grading is performed shall comply with
the provisions of this Section for NPDES compliance.
All best management practices shall be installed before grading begins or as instructed in writing by the
Building Official for unpermitted grading as defined by Section J103.3. As grading progresses, all best management
practices shall be updated as necessary to prevent erosion and to control construction -related pollutants from
discharging from the site. All best management practices shall be maintained in good working order to the
satisfaction of the Building Official until final grading approval has been granted by the Building Official and all
permanent drainage and erosion control systems, if required, are in place. Failure to comply with this Section is
subject to "Noncompliance Penalties" pursuant to Section 1110.8.5. Payment of a penalty shall not relieve any
persons from fully complying with the requirements of this Code in the execution of the work.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 90, 2019.)
J110.8.2 Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).
The Building Official may require a SWPPP. The SWPPP shall contain details of best management practices,
including desilting basins or other temporary drainage or control measures, or both, as may be necessary to
control construction -related pollutants that originate from the site as a result of construction -related activities.
When the Building Official requires a SWPPP, no grading permit shall be issued until the SWPPP has been
submitted to and approved by the Building Official.
For unpermitted grading as defined by Section J103.3 upon written request, a SWPPP in compliance with the
provisions of this Section and Section 106.4.3 for NPOES compliance shall be submitted to the Building Official.
Failure to comply with this section is subject to "Noncompliance Penalties" per Section J110.8.5. Payment of a
penalty shall not relieve any persons from fully complying with the requirements of this Code in the execution of
the work.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 90, 2019.)
(Sapp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created: 2022-08-26 09:30:51 JEST]
Page 27 of 30
J110.8.3 Erosion and Sediment Control Plans (ESCP).
Where a grading permit is issued and the Building Official determines that the grading will not be completed prior
to November 1, the owner of the site on which the grading is being performed shall, on or before October 1, file or
cause to be filed with the Building Official an ESOP. The ESCP shall include specific best management practices to
minimize the transport of sediment and protect public and private property from the effects of erosion, flooding,
or the deposition of mud, debris, or construction -related pollutants. The best management practices shown on the
ESCP shall be installed on or before October 15. The plans shall be revised annually or as required by the Building
Official to reflect the current site conditions.
The ESCP shall be accompanied by an application for plan checking services and plan -checking fees in an
amount determined by the Building Official, up to but not exceeding 10 percent of the original grading permit fee.
Failure to comply with this Section is subject to "Noncompliance Penalties" pursuant to Section J110.8.5.
Payment of a penalty shall not relieve any persons from fully complying with the requirements of this Code in the
execution of the work.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 90, 2019.)
J110.8.4 Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), effect of noncompliance.
Should the owner fail to submit the SWPPP or the ESCP as required by Section J110.8, or fail to install the best
management practices, it shall be deemed that a default has occurred under the conditions of the grading permit
security. The Building Official may thereafter enter the property for the purpose of installing, by County forces or
by other means, the drainage, erosion control, and other devices shown on the approved plans, or if there are no
approved plans, as the Building Official may deem necessary to protect adjoining property from the effects of
erosion, flooding, or the deposition of mud, debris, or constructed -related pollutants.
The Building Official shall also have the authority to impose and collect the penalties imposed by Section
J110.8.5. Payment of a penalty shall not relieve any persons from fully complying with the requirements of this
Code in the execution of the work.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 90, 2019.)
J110.8.5 Noncompliance penalties.
The amount of the penalties shall be as follows:
If a SWPPP or an ESCP is not submitted as prescribed in Sections 1110.8.2 and J110.8.3:
Grading Permit Volume
Penalty
1-10,000 cubic yards (1-7645.5 m3)
$50.00 per day
10,001-100,000 cubic yards (7646.3-76455 m3)
$250.00 per day
More than 100,000 cubic yards (76455 m3)
$500.00 per day
2. If the best management practices for storm water pollution prevention and wet weather erosion control, as
approved by the Building Official, are not installed as prescribed in this Section J110.8:
(Supp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created: 2022-08-26 09:39:51 [EST)
Page 28 of 30
Grading Permit Volume
Penalty
1-10,000 cubic yards (1-7645.5 m3)
$100.00 per day
10,001-100,000 cubic yards (7646.3-76455 m3)
$250.00 per day
More than 100,000 cubic yards (76455 m3)
$500.00 per day
NOTE: See Section 108 for inspection request requirements.
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 90, 2019.)
SECTION J111 REFERENCED STANDARDS
These regulations establish minimum standards and are not intended to prevent the use of alternate
materials, methods, or means of conforming to such standards, provided such alternate has been approved by the
Building Official.
The Building Official shall approve such an alternate provided they determine that the alternate is, for the
purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this Code in quality, strength, effectiveness,
durability, and safety.
The Building Official shall require that sufficient evidence or proof be submitted to substantiate any claims
regarding the alternate.
The standards listed below are recognized standards. Compliance with these recognized standards shall be
prima facie evidence of compliance with the standards set forth in Sections J104 and J107.
ASTM D 1557 - Latest
Laboratory Characteristics Compaction of Soil
1107.5
Revision
Using Modified Effort
ASTM D 1556 - Latest
Density and unit Weight of Soils In Place by the
J104.2.3, J104.3 and
Revision
Sand Cone Method
J107.9
ASTM D 2167 - Latest
Density and Unit Weight of Soils In Place by the
J104.2.3, J104.3 and
Revision
Rubber Balloon Method
J107.9
ASTM D 2937 - Latest
Density of Soils in Place by the Drive Cylinder
J104.2.3, J104.3 and
Revision
Method
J107.9
ASTM D 2922 - Latest
Density of Soil and Soil Aggregate In Place by
J104.2.3, J104.3 and
Revision
Nuclear Methods
J107.9
ASTM D 3017 - Latest
Water Content of Soil and Rock in Place by
J104.2.3, J104.3 and
Revision
Nuclear Methods
J107.9
Guidelines for Above -Water Backfilling of Open Pit Mines, Irwindale, California, Irwindale Drainage and Erosion
Control Committee, November 23, 2005
Guidelines for Drainage and Erosion Control forOpen Pit Mines, Irwindale, California, Irwindale Drainage and
(Sapp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created; 2022-08-26 09;30:55 [E5Tj
Page 29 of 30
Erosion Control Committee, July 6, 2004
Guidelines for Underwater Backfilling of Open Pit Mines, Irwindale, California, Irwindale Drainage and Erosion
Control Committee, May 20, 2005
Guidelines for Stability Analyses of Open -Pit Mine Slopes, Irwindale, California, Irwindale Slope Stability
Committee, December 24, 2003
Irwindale Mining Bulletin NoA, Settlement of Mine Backfills, November 22, 2022
(Ord. 2019-0056 § 91, 2019.)
(Supp. No. 134, Update 2)
Created; 2022-08-26 69:30:51 [EST]
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