Grading Plan Requirements in the Town of Oakville
Grading plan design for a new built infill lot in the Town of Oakville.
A grading plan is an essential part of any development project in the Town of Oakville. This plan shows how the land will be shaped to ensure proper drainage and land use. If you’re building in Oakville, you must follow the guidelines outlined in the Development Engineering Procedures and Guidelines Manual, published in September 2023.
What is a Grading Plan?
A grading plan shapes the land to make it useful, enjoyable, and safe. It ensures water drains away from buildings and prevents flooding. A good grading plan also keeps neighboring properties safe by controlling water flow on the designed lot.
In addition to needed a grading plan (described below), the development should be coordinated with the Region of Halton for servicing (water and sanitary) and the local conservation authority if the area is regulated. This collaboration helps ensure all aspects of the design meet local and regional standards.
Key Elements of a Grading Plan
A grading plan in Oakville must include several important features:
Positive Drainage: Water should flow away from buildings to keep basements and foundations dry.
Swales: These shallow ditches direct stormwater toward a designated outlet. Swales must have slopes between 2% and 5% to work properly.
Landscaping, Slopes, and Retaining Walls: To handle changes in elevation, a grading plan might include slopes, landscape or retaining walls. These features help increase the usefulness of the land.
Downspouts: Roof downspouts must discharge onto the ground, not directly into the sewer system.
Erosion and Sediment Control: Measures must be in place during construction to stop dirt from washing into sewers and waterways. This protects the environment and keeps sewer systems clear.
Grading plan design for a new build lot in the Town of Oakville. The design included tree protection to maintain the massive rear yard trees.
Stormwater Management Requirements
Stormwater management is an essential part of a grading plan. According to Section 7.3.1 of the Development Engineering Procedures and Guidelines Manual, every site must be designed to keep and manage the water from a 25mm rainstorm. The Town of Oakville follows its Stormwater Management Master Plan to ensure all new developments handle rainwater in a sustainable way. This approach helps prevent flooding, protects waterways, and supports healthy ecosystems. The design is completed by a certified engineer and detailed in a stormwater management report (SWM Report).
At Everwest were experts at designing stormwater systems to meet the Towns engineering requirements, while minimizing construction costs. Your construction budget is important to us.
Inspections and Final Approval
When construction is done, a certified engineer must inspect the property. The Town of Oakville requires this to ensure the land was built according to the grading plan. The inspection checks:
Water drains as planned.
Slopes are correct and meet the minimum and maximum standards.
All erosion and sediment controls are in place and functioning.
Getting final approval is a critical step. It shows the site is safe and ready for use.
Grading plan design for a new build lot in the Town of Oakville. The design included tree protection to maintain the existing front yard tree.
Everwest Engineering: Experts in Grading Plans
At Everwest Engineering, we specialize in grading plans and stormwater management designs. We have completed many successful projects in the Town of Oakville. Our team understands the Development Engineering Procedures and Guidelines Manual and works closely with the Region and conservation authorities to ensure your project meets all requirements.
We take pride in designing grading plans that:
Maximize the use of your land.
Ensure proper drainage.
Minimize costs.
Whether you’re building a single house or a larger development, Everwest Engineering is here to help. We combine expertise with attention to detail to deliver plans that work.
Why is a Grading Plan Important?
A grading plan is more than just a requirement. It ensures your property is safe, functional, and environmentally friendly. Following the Town of Oakville’s rules protects your investment and helps keep the community a great place to live.
If you’re planning a project in Oakville, start with a great grading plan. It’s the foundation of a successful development. Contact Everwest Engineering to get expert help designing a grading plan that meets all local standards.
