Grading Program

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The City of Savage has established a grading program to ensure that the City's minimum grading requirements are met in all developments and that the property conforms to the adjacent properties.

Grading Program Information

Homeowners are responsible for preventing erosion until turf is established and approved.
Sod and landscaping materials must be at least 6 inches below your home's siding.

Up to 45 days after the property closing date:

The homeowner should check with the builder to make sure an as-built survey has been submitted to the City for approval. Sod, irrigation systems, and landscape materials may not be installed until the as-built survey has been approved. This typically takes two weeks from the time it is submitted to the City.

Up to 70 days after the as-built survey has been approved:

Once the as-built survey has been approved, you may begin installing trees and establishing acceptable ground cover. Acceptable ground cover includes sod, turf seed, mulch and/or rock landscaped areas and native grasses. if you have questions about acceptable ground covers, call the City Engineering Division at 952-882-2671. Ground cover and landscaping must be established within 70 days from the date the as-built survey was approved. Exceptions are allowed during the winter season.

Excavation and Fill Permit Application

FAQs

How do I get my escrow released?

Once the as-built survey, sod and trees have been approved, the escrow will be released to whomever paid the escrow to the City. If you are not sure of the status of your as-built, please call your builder.
What is an "as-built survey" and why does the City need one?

An as-built survey is a survey that the builder submits after the rough grade is completed on a lot. It is reviewed to ensure that the City's minimum grading requirements are met and that the property conforms to the adjacent properties.

The as-built survey must be approved before any further work may be done on the property. Check with your builder to make sure an as-built survey has been submitted to the City for approval. Sod, irrigation systems, and landscape materials may not be installed until the as-built survey is approved. This typically takes two weeks from the time it is submitted to the City.
When can I lay sod?

Sod may be laid after the City approves the as-built survey. This typically takes two weeks from the time the as-built is submitted to the City. Check with your builder to make sure an as-built survey has been submitted to the City for approval.
When can I put a sprinkler system in?

Check with your builder to make sure an as-built survey has been submitted to the City for approval. You can install a sprinkler system after the as-built survey has been approved by the City's grading inspector, and you have received a building permit from the Building Inspections Department.
Who comes out and inspects my lot for proper grading?

The majority of as-built surveys are reviewed in the office only. However, if there is an area of concern, an inspector may visit the property.

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