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Environmental & Resource Protection

Soils Report Waivers

Eligibility

Some projects are eligible to use a soils report waiver instead of submitting a soils report (also called a geotechnical report). Eligibility is based upon the type of project and the site characteristics.

Waivers can be considered for the following project types:

  • One- and two-story additions attached to an existing residential single family or duplex structure;
  • Conversion of an attached non-habitable space (e.g., garage) to habitable space;
  • One-story residences or habitable accessory structures of 4,000 square feet or less in floor area, with non-eccentric loading

If the project type is eligible, the project site must meet all of the following requirements:

  • Project site is located on slopes no greater than 20%;
  • No existing cut or fill slopes;
  • No proposed cut or fill slopes;
  • No mapped or known geologic hazards including liquefaction, landslides, expansive soils, or fault zones
  • Slope setbacks are in conformance with the 2022 California Building Code Section 1808.7 Foundations On or Adjacent to Slopes;
  • No observed structural distress to onsite foundation elements or slabs on grade; and
  • If the project includes converting an attached non-habitable space to habitable, the existing foundation elements supporting the attached non-habitable space must meet current building code requirements.

 

How to Submit a Soils Report Waiver Request

To submit a soils report waiver request, complete the Soils Report Waiver Request form and submit it as a part of your building permit application in the supplemental documents (SUP) file. Staff will evaluate the request. If the waiver is granted, no additional action is required.

 

What happens if the Soils Report Waiver Request is Not Granted?

When a soils report waiver cannot be granted, you will be required to submit a soils report and the report review fee. In some cases, changes to the project plans may become required as a result of the soils report recommendations. Revisions to project plans can be costly and, if required, the re-review of the project by County staff can add time to permit processing. This is a risk you should consider when requesting a soils report waiver.