Soil Conditions in Lemon Grove
San Diego's geology varies dramatically from neighborhood to neighborhood. Here's what we see most often.
Stadium Conglomerate
Much of Lemon Grove sits on Stadium Conglomerate, the same cemented cobble formation found in neighboring La Mesa. It provides excellent bearing capacity but presents excavation challenges — trenching for utilities often requires specialized equipment.
Alluvial Valley Soils
The lower areas and creek valleys in Lemon Grove contain alluvial deposits with variable clay content and expansion potential. Shallow groundwater may be present seasonally in some low-lying areas.
What We Do in Lemon Grove
Soils Reports
Geotechnical investigation and foundation recommendations for building permits.
Learn more →Grading Plans
Precise and rough grading design with drainage and earthwork calculations.
Learn more →Compaction Testing
Field density testing and fill certification for construction.
Learn more →Stormwater / LID / WQMP
LID compliance, WQMP preparation, and BMP design.
Learn more →Hydrology Reports
Drainage analysis and flood risk assessment.
Learn more →Subsurface Exploration
Drilling, CPT, and test pit programs.
Learn more →Erosion Control Plans
SWPPP and erosion control for grading permits.
Learn more →Street Improvements
Frontage, curb, gutter, and sidewalk design.
Learn more →Utility Plans
Water, sewer, and storm drain design and coordination.
Learn more →Project Coordination
One point of contact managing structural, MEP, surveying, and specialty consultants.
Learn more →We also coordinate with your structural engineer, architect, MEP consultants, and other project team members to ensure our deliverables integrate with the overall design — one point of contact for your geotechnical and civil engineering scope.
What People Build in Lemon Grove
ADU / Accessory Dwelling Unit
ADU construction on Lemon Grove's residential lots — soils reports required for all new structures.
Home Addition
Room additions and remodels that trigger geotechnical requirements when adding significant floor area.
Single-Family Home
Infill home construction on available lots throughout Lemon Grove.
Working With City of Lemon Grove Community Development Department
Lemon Grove requires geotechnical investigations for new construction. Reports are submitted with building permit applications and reviewed by city staff.
What Makes This Jurisdiction Distinct
Stadium Conglomerate geology — excavation difficulty assessment recommended in soils reports
Compact lot sizes — drilling access and setback considerations
Grading permits required for earthwork over 50 cubic yards
Stormwater compliance per San Diego Regional MS4 permit
Submit to Community Development at Lemon Grove City Hall, 3232 Main Street.
Common Questions — Lemon Grove
Building in Lemon Grove?
Tell us about your project and we'll send you a fixed-fee proposal — typically within one business day.