After you, your builder, or other professional have obtained a lot grade permit, the rough grading (also called substantial grading), must be completed within 12 months.
Rough grading includes:
- backfilling around the foundation and “perching” of the backfill material to ensure that there is positive slope away from the foundation (exclusive of topsoil and sod),
- grading of any swales,
- construction of any retaining walls,
- and grading the lot to conform to the design of the approved Lot Grade Plan.
Rough grading is typically about 100 mm (4 inches) below finished grade in order to allow for placement of topsoil and sod, or any other decorative landscaping material.
