Los Angeles County, California, West San Fernando Valley Area
The dominant drainage class is Well drained and the dominant hydrologic group is B (moderate infiltration). This report summarizes the major soil map units across the survey area to help you understand what to expect when buying, building, or gardening in Los Angeles County, California, West San Fernando Valley Area.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mocho-Urban land complex, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 13K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Not rated |
| Conejo-Urban land complex, 0 to 2 percent slopes, MLRA 19 | 11K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| San Emigdio-Urban land complex, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 9K | Well drained | A | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
| Xerorthents-Urban land-Balcom complex, 5 to 15 percent slopes | 7K | Well drained | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited | |
| Capistrano-Urban land complex, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 7K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
| Chualar-Urban land complex, 2 to 9 percent slopes | 5K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Very limited |
| Anacapa-Urban land complex, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 5K | Well drained | A | Not limited | Very limited |
| Balcom silty clay loam, 30 to 50 percent slopes, MLRA 20 | 5K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Rock outcrop-Gaviota complex, 30 to 75 percent slopes, warm MAAT, MLRA 20 | 4K | D | Very limited | Very limited | |
| Gazos-Balcom complex, 30 to 50 percent slopes | 4K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Lopez shaly clay loam, 30 to 50 percent slopes | 3K | Somewhat excessively drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Cropley-Urban land complex, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 3K | C | Very limited | Very limited | |
| Saugus loam, 30 to 50 percent slopes | 3K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Xerorthents-Urban land-Balcom complex, 15 to 30 percent slopes | 3K | Well drained | Very limited | Very limited | |
| Capistrano-Urban land complex, 2 to 9 percent slopes | 3K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
| Gazos silty clay loam, 30 to 50 percent slopes | 2K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Badland | 2K | Very limited | Very limited | ||
| Mipolomol-Topanga association, 30 to 75 percent slopes | 2K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Balcom silty clay loam, 15 to 30 percent slopes, MLRA 20 | 1K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Gaviota sandy loam, 30 to 50 percent slopes, warm MAAT, MLRA 20 | 1K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
What This Means
Building & Foundations
About 36% of soils have significant building limitations, while the rest are generally suitable. Check specific sites carefully — conditions vary across the area.
Septic Systems
About 58% of soils are rated "very limited" for septic absorption fields. Despite good drainage overall, limitations may stem from shallow bedrock, steep slopes, or seasonal conditions. Engineered or alternative systems are frequently required. Always get a professional perc test before purchasing land that needs septic.
Gardening & Agriculture
Well-drained soils on sloped terrain — good for most plants but watch for erosion. Terracing, contour planting, and mulching help retain moisture and topsoil. Drip irrigation is more effective than sprinklers on slopes.