# Sec. 32-154. Preparation of Ground

Codified through Bill No. CB-018-2026, adopted May 12, 2026, effective July 24, 2026. Source: Municode, Supplement 2026 Update 2. Editorial notes and legislative history omitted.

## Sec. 32-154. Preparation of Ground

Prince George's County, Md., Code § 32-154 (2026)

(a) The entire area, or each subdivision thereof, included within the limits of proposed cut and fill shall be stripped with particular emphasis on the removal of all root mat, trash, organic matter, and otherwise objectionable, noncomplying and unsuitable materials and soils. All previously placed uncontrolled fill shall be removed from areas to receive class 1 fill for a building or structure that is to be erected. No building or structure shall be erected on class III fill material.

  (1) Prior to placing class 1 fill, the ground surface, if within five (5) feet of finished grade, or foundation base elevation, shall be compacted so that the top six (6) inches achieves a density of not less than ninety percent (90%) of maximum density as defined in Section 32-158.

  (2) No class 1 or 2 load-bearing fill shall be placed on frozen ground. Class 3 fill may be placed on frozen ground.

  (3) Natural and/or existing slopes steeper than five (5) horizontal to one (1) vertical shall be benched or continuously stepped into competent materials prior to placing fill of any class. Fills toeing out on natural slopes steeper than four (4) horizontal to one (1) vertical shall not be made unless approved by the Director after receipt of a report by a soil engineer certifying that he has investigated the property, made soil tests, and that, in his opinion, such steeper slopes will safely support the proposed fill.

  (4) All specimen trees within or adjacent to areas of proposed disturbance shall be protected in accordance with the approved Type 2 Tree Conservation Plan. Where Type 2 Tree Conservation Plan is not required, all specimen trees within or adjacent to areas of disturbance shall be protected by appropriate tree protection devices placed outside the drip line of the tree.