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Lot Grading Guide

At Groundworx Ltd., we understand that proper lot grading and drainage are critical components in the construction of a new home. Our expertise in Residential Lot Grading ensures that your property is protected from costly water damage and complies with local regulations.

Our Commitment to Excellence

Groundworx Ltd. specializes in both Rough and Final Grade approvals, adhering to the City of Edmonton’s Surface Drainage Bylaw and similar municipal regulations. Our skilled crews, equipped with state-of-the-art machinery including tracked skid steers, guarantee precision in creating properly graded lots.

The Importance of Proper Grading

Effective lot grading directs water away from your home’s foundation, preventing potential basement flooding and structural damage. We emphasize the importance of:

  • Correct slope away from foundation walls
  • Well-designed drainage swales along property lines
  • Proper channeling of water from downspouts and sump pumps

City of Edmonton Residential Lot Grading Guide

This guide, provided by the City of Edmonton Drainage Services Department, outlines lot grading procedures. While specific to Edmonton, it serves as a useful reference for many municipalities in the region.

Minimum Grade Requirements

To ensure effective water drainage, the following slopes are required:

  • 10% for the first 2 metres from the foundation (minimum 20 cm drop)
  • 15 cm drop on side lots less than 2 metres wide
  • 0.75% slope for impervious surfaces (concrete, asphalt)

Lot grading occurs in two stages:

  1. Rough Grade Stage – Typically the homebuilder’s responsibility.
  2. Final Grade Stage – Usually the homeowner’s responsibility.

Rough Grade Stage

This stage involves backfilling foundation walls and shaping the lot according to the approved Lot Grading Plan within set tolerances. Rough grade approval should be completed within 18 months of the building permit issuance.

Approval Process

A certified Alberta Land Surveyor, Professional Engineer, or Registered Architect surveys the lot and prepares a Lot Grading Certificate.

The certificate is submitted to City of Edmonton Drainage Services (digital submissions preferred; paper copies will be scanned). Contact details must be provided for receiving the Lot Grading Inspection Report (fax, email, or mail).

A Lot Grading Inspector verifies the grading within three working days, weather permitting.

An inspection report is sent to the builder, indicating approval or listing deficiencies.

If deficiencies exist, the builder must correct them within 60 days and request re-inspection. If re-submission of the Lot Grading Certificate is required, the re-inspection cannot proceed until the new certificate is received.
Upon approval, both the builder and property owner are notified, along with additional information regarding the final grading process.

Note: Builders or property owners can skip the Rough Grade Approval Process and proceed directly to Final Grade Approval if desired.

Final Grade Stage

The homeowner must complete this stage within one year of Rough Grade Approval. The rough grade is left 7-20 cm below the final grade to allow for topsoil placement. The topsoil must be spread, compacted, and prepared for landscaping (sod, liners, rocks, etc.). If using decorative materials like rocks or wood chips, the clay base must be raised to final grade before placement, as these materials do not replace the required topsoil depth.

For lots adjacent to lakes, walkways, or ravines, homeowners must comply with any registered easements, rights-of-way, caveats, or restrictive covenants in favor of the City of Edmonton.

Approval Process

A certified professional surveys the lot (on sod or topsoil) and prepares a Lot Grading Certificate.

The certificate is submitted to City of Edmonton Drainage Services. Homeowners must provide their preferred method of contact (fax, email, or mail) for receiving the Lot Grading Inspection Report.

A Lot Grading Inspector verifies compliance with the approved Lot Grading Plan within three working days, weather permitting.

An inspection report is sent to the homeowner, indicating approval or listing deficiencies.

If deficiencies exist, the homeowner must correct them within 60 days and request re-inspection. If a new Lot Grading Certificate is required, the re-inspection cannot proceed until the new certificate is received. If a professional landscaper completes the final grading, the homeowner must notify them of the inspection requirements.

Upon approval, the homeowner receives an approval report and a copy of the Lot Grading Certificate.

For further details, contact the City of Edmonton Drainage Services Department.

Advice for Home Buyers

We recommend verifying lot grading approval when purchasing a home. This information is available through the city’s Drainage Services upon written request from a legal or real estate professional.

Financial Considerations

Developers may require a refundable deposit to ensure compliance with grading plans

Inspection fees are collected during the building permit application process

At Groundworx Ltd., we’re committed to providing professional, reliable lot grading services that protect your investment and ensure compliance with local regulations. Contact us today to discuss your project or for any questions regarding lot grading and drainage.

NOTE: If the builder or the applicant does the landscaping, they can bypass the Rough Grade approval procedure and apply solely for Final Grade approval.

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Monday – Saturday | 8am – 5pm
168, 10293-276 Street NW
Acheson, AB
T7X 6A5

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Contact Us

Phone: 780-444-4444
Email: contact@ground-worx.ca
Fax: 780-444-4444