Permeable pavers allow stormwater to pass through the surface and into a specially engineered base below, rather than running off into storm drains. In parts of Los Angeles where impervious surface coverage is regulated — or where drainage to the street is a practical problem — permeable paver systems are worth understanding.

How Permeable Paver Systems Work

A standard paver installation uses a compacted aggregate base and polymeric sand joints that are essentially impermeable. A permeable system uses open-graded aggregate base (no fines, so water drains freely through the voids), wider joints filled with small stone rather than polymeric sand, and sometimes perforated pipe at the base to direct collected water to a drain or infiltration area.

Water enters through the joints, percolates through the open-graded base, and either infiltrates into the subgrade or is directed to a drainage outlet. The system can handle significant rainfall events when properly engineered.

Where Permeable Pavers Make Sense in LA

• Properties where drainage to the street is restricted or the grade doesn’t support it
• Driveways where stormwater runoff from an impervious surface exceeds city limits
• Hillside properties where water management is a design priority
• Projects seeking LEED credits or green building compliance
• Areas with expansive clay soil where controlled infiltration is preferable to surface runoff

Limitations

Permeable systems require more maintenance than standard paver installations. The joints and base can clog with fine sediment over time, reducing infiltration rate. Periodic vacuuming or pressure washing is required to maintain permeability. In areas with heavy clay soil, infiltration rate into the subgrade may be too low to make the system effective without French drain integration.

Cost is higher than standard installation — typically $25–$45 per square foot installed due to the engineered base system and more complex drainage integration.

Is It Required?

Los Angeles and incorporated cities have varying requirements for impervious surface on residential lots. Some jurisdictions require stormwater retention on new paving over certain thresholds. We identify applicable requirements during the estimate and can specify a permeable system where required or beneficial.