What must be established by the lowest points between a building and its lot line?

The concept of grade plane is essential in understanding how a building interacts with its surrounding site, particularly in relation to its lot line. The grade plane is defined as a reference point for determining the elevation of a building. It is established by averaging the lowest points between the building and its lot line to ensure proper site drainage and to comply with local building codes.

Establishing the grade plane is critical because it impacts various aspects of construction and design, such as the determination of the building height, the position of the foundation, and the overall site drainage strategy. It helps to ensure that water drains away from the structure, protecting the integrity of the building and reducing potential water-related issues.

In contrast, the foundation level refers to the specific elevation at which the foundation of the building is placed, which is often influenced by the grade plane but does not derive its definition from the site’s lowest points. The site plan is a broader document that outlines the layout of the property, including buildings, landscaping, and parking areas, but it does not specifically relate to the lowest points and drainage considerations. Lastly, the drainage plane would pertain to specific features designed to manage water flow but is not a term that directly describes the relationship between the building and its lot line as