Building on a hill

POC · Apr 6, 2020

I need to build a new barn. The plans I have are a 24x30 with a drive through and stalls on the sides. I need to orient it N-S to access the pasture. There is a 1:3 drop in terrain.
I'm not sure what to do. If I cut down on the high side I'll have a 3' drop to have to deal with trying to get the tractor in and out of.
Building up th lower end really isn't feasible, and I'll have the same issue with having a big ramp to get down out of the barn.
Should I just build it as the ground lies?
Help!

LouNY · Apr 6, 2020

Split it dig down on the high end and fill on the low.
Just use extreme compaction to prevent settling, your building should be plumb and square.

ruffdog · Apr 6, 2020

Hills are great to allow drive in access to a loft.

rgr33 · Apr 6, 2020

Why not build it as a split level? The lower level would be great for animal shelter or equipment storage.

The problem with moving fill to attempt a level building site is the expense and instability if not done correctly.

Fuddy1952 · Apr 8, 2020

This was completed last Fall. A fellow with a 30 ton Cat dozer did the leveling, grading. He was off 1/2" end to end.
Retaining wall is 7ft, then 36x36 horse stable with 36x32 shed overhang.
There's another 4ft retaining wall below stable.
It's behind a 2 story garage same contractor built years ago. Concrete floors.
Really turned out nice on hillside, no water problems.