Make the building and the site work together.
Ground elevations influence entries, garage access, exterior steps, retaining walls, and drainage. YCG develops grading and drainage plans around the proposed architecture and available survey so these elements can be considered together.
A typical civil plan scope can include
- Review of the topographic survey, architectural plans, and geotechnical recommendations.
- Proposed contours, spot elevations, and tie-ins to existing ground.
- Drainage paths, inlets, piping, and discharge coordination.
- Driveway grading and site-access coordination.
- Earthwork estimates and review of grading alternatives.
- Erosion-control information and civil plan-check responses.
Explore the options before fixing the elevations.
On a constrained lot, an adjustment to the driveway alignment or building elevation may change the amount of excavation or the need for retaining walls. We help compare the civil implications while coordinating with the architect, geotechnical consultant, and structural engineer.
Drainage is part of the whole site.
New roofs and paving can change where runoff collects. The design needs to account for existing conditions, proposed improvements, and a suitable drainage destination. Where needed, a separate drainage report or stormwater calculation supports the plan.
Before we begin
Useful starting information includes the site address, topographic survey, building layout, soils report, and any agency comments. If your project is still at concept stage, we can discuss an initial review before a complete civil plan set.
Common questions
Do you design for hillside properties?
Yes. We can evaluate grading, driveway geometry, drainage, and earthwork for hillside residential sites, with geotechnical and structural coordination as needed.
Can you respond to comments on an existing plan set?
Send the current drawings and complete review comments. We can evaluate what is needed and define an appropriate revision or response scope.