New Neighborhood - what's your process?

[Darren Emery]

This is not specifically a foundation question, but not sure that there is a better spot for this quesiton.

We just opened up a new neighorhood for permits. The entire site had extensive grading to level out a hill side for streets and home sites. I would guess a cut on one side as much as 10', and fill on one side 5-10'.

I'm wondering what others require, or obtain from developers or Public Works, when a new neighborhood is created? Any topographical info that shows orginal elevations and as builts? Or do you just wait until you see the first excavation, and ask for soil info at that point?

I have a feeling that a good portion of this neighborhood is on fill, but the developer tells our office that all home sites are cut into existing soil.

Any input would be appreciated!

 

[mark handler]

Refer to the Civil drawings and geotechnical reports

they will identify which are on cut and which are on fill

 

[Darren Emery]

Refer to the Civil drawings and geotechnical reports

Yeah - I get that. But the question is; do you REQUIRE that this info be submitted to your office? Does this info make it to the Building Department as part of the process?

Also - the PW civil drawings have little, if any info about the lots, just the infastructure.

 

[mark handler]

Yes I do require the civil docs

And require civil rough and finish grading plans

 

[tmurray]

Our subdivision inspector lets us know when he releases the subdivision for building permits which lots are built up. Your engineering department should have the civil drawings if you want to do it yourself, or if someone wants to know how far they need to dig before they hit undisturbed.

We also require finish grading plans to ensure compliance with the subdivision drainage plan.

 

[Keystone]

IMO, it should be listed as a question on the building permit application and information provided at plan submission for that specific lot via plot plan. Although the majority of developers in this area are aware as soon as they fill they have a geo-tech testing performed prior to footing inspection.

 

[JBI]

2012 IRC Chapter 4. R401.4 Soil tests.

Where quantifiable data created by accepted soil science methodologies indicate expansive, compressible, shifting or other questionable soil characteristics are likely to be present, the building official shall determine whether to require a soil test to determine the soil’s characteristics at a particular location. This test shall be done by an approved agency using an approved method

If you are the code Official it is your call whether to require the soils tests, and known fill sites create questionable soil conditions. JMHO

 

[steveray]

We would have a permit to develop before any grading would be done. That would show existing and proposed topographical surveys.....still might be a pain to argue, but the info should be there.....