FINAL GRADE
What is final grade?
Final grading is the process of placing topsoil on top of the rough graded lot to conform to the approved Lot Grading Plan. Final grading is to provide the final layer before landscaping materials are installed and to properly convey surface water away from the house and off the property. Final grading completion is the responsibility of the homeowner, however, it could be completed by the developer or home builder.
Final grade approval process:
- After rough grade approval, homeowner/builder/developer installs 3-4 inches of topsoil on top of the rough grade as per the approved Lot Grading Plan.
- An Alberta Land Surveyor or VNCO is hired to prepare the Final Grade Certificate.
- VNCO assists the applicant identify any deficiencies before submitting the Final Grade Certificate to the City/County.
- VNCO submits Final Grade Certificate to request for inspection after deficiencies are addressed.
- Final grade inspection will be conducted within 5-10 business days depending on weather and workload of the inspector.
- If final grade fails inspection, VNCO will explain to the applicant the deficiencies noted in the inspection report. VNCO requests for re-inspection once deficiencies are properly corrected.
- If final grade passes inspection, VNCO will forward the inspection report and approval to the applicant.
- Final grades in Edmonton must be approved within 12 months of the rough grade approval permit being issued.
TIPS FOR YOUR DIY FINAL GRADE PROJECT
TIP 1: Interpret Plot Plan
TIP 2: Stakeout & Install String Lines
TIP 2: Stakeout & Install String Lines
It is crucial to locate high/low points and determine drainage pattern to correctly shape the lot as per the approved grading design. Understanding plot plan and lot grading plan also assists in material volume calculations
TIP 2: Stakeout & Install String Lines
TIP 2: Stakeout & Install String Lines
TIP 2: Stakeout & Install String Lines
This step ensures topsoil is installed to design elevations and consistent sloping across the site (i.e. avoid low and high spots)
TIP 3: Build Slopes Around Foundation
TIP 2: Stakeout & Install String Lines
TIP 3: Build Slopes Around Foundation
This is one of the most common deficiencies. Slopes away from foundation walls shall be minimum 5% in the first 2 meters for soft surfaces/landscaping and minimum 1% for hard/impermeable surfaces
TIP 4: Define Drainage Swales
TIP 4: Define Drainage Swales
TIP 3: Build Slopes Around Foundation
Well-defined drainage swales ensure better water runoff. It is recommended to construct a clear V-shaped swale along the common property lines between the houses
TIP 5: Good Compaction
TIP 4: Define Drainage Swales
TIP 6: Other Good Practices
Good compaction is crucial in protecting final grades from erosion and damages. This also prevents future settlements and uneven surface
TIP 6: Other Good Practices
TIP 4: Define Drainage Swales
TIP 6: Other Good Practices
During inspection wait time, site shall be clean of debris, tools and construction materials. Gates to be unlocked, downspout extensions to be laid on the ground with splash pads placed. Additional Lot Grading Guidelines can be found on the City's or County's website