Soil Conditions in Santee
San Diego's geology varies dramatically from neighborhood to neighborhood. Here's what we see most often.
San Diego River Alluvium
The San Diego River corridor through Santee contains alluvial sands, silts, and clays deposited by periodic flooding. These soils are variable in density and may include loose layers susceptible to settlement under new loads.
Stadium Conglomerate and Granitic Bedrock
The hills surrounding Santee expose Stadium Conglomerate and granitic bedrock. These materials have excellent bearing capacity but can be very difficult to excavate. Hillside projects should anticipate possible rock excavation costs.
Friars Formation Exposures
Portions of western Santee include Friars Formation claystone, which is prone to slope instability and has high expansion potential. Any grading near Friars Formation slopes should include slope stability evaluation.
What We Do in Santee
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 Santee
Single-Family Home
New homes on infill and hillside lots, with soil conditions varying between valley alluvium and hillside rock.
ADU / Accessory Dwelling Unit
ADU permits in Santee require a soils report for new detached structures on existing residential lots.
Pool Addition
Backyard pool construction requiring soils evaluation for excavation conditions and lateral earth pressure on pool walls.
Working With City of Santee Development Services Department
Santee requires geotechnical investigations for new residential and commercial construction. Reports are submitted with building or grading permit applications and reviewed by city engineering staff.
What Makes This Jurisdiction Distinct
San Diego River corridor properties may be in FEMA flood zones — elevation certificates may be required
Hillside properties subject to slope stability analysis requirements
Grading permits required for earthwork over 50 cubic yards
Stormwater compliance per San Diego Regional MS4 permit
Submit to Development Services at Santee City Hall, 10601 Magnolia Avenue.
Common Questions — Santee
Building in Santee?
Tell us about your project and we'll send you a fixed-fee proposal — typically within one business day.