Ground grade below window

[block]

We are going to have two windows in a concrete block wall that will have back fill (dirt) then sod placed on top of that dirt just below these two windows.
My question is how close can I backfill the dirt to the bottom of the window ?
Is there an industry standard ?
I don't want the grass so close that I cant mow or weed trim without getting debris all over the glass. On the other hand I want to backfill as much as I can.
What is a good close but safe distance ?
Thanks

[ODDJOB]

I don't know about a standard, but one other thing you might want to consider is a heavy downpour and washing. How high do you neeed to be above grade to avoid water problems.

[block]

Thanks ODDJOB.
Thats something I didn't think about. After the back fill is completed though I was going to have planned within the next few days(or sooner) to have rolls of sod(Soysia grass ?) placed against the foundation. This should prevent any large amount of splashing on the windows.
Even with the sod in place then I wonder if the dirt was 12" to 24" below the bottom of the window if that would be good enough ?
I'm trying to keep my grade as high as possible for proper grade/ground slope for rain/water drainage.
Thanks

[bkrahmer]

That's what they make window wells for. :) That way you can have your windows below grade.

[block]

Thanks bkrahmer.
I don't want the window below grade. Besides that it would block the view somewhat. I have done more searching on the net but still cant find an answer. I guess if I went 24" below the bottom of the window with the grade then that will hopefully be enough.
Thanks

[Pokey]

In St louis we rarely use window wells unless they are absolutely needed. I believe code here states grade must be at minimum 8" below bottom of window and of course grade needs to slope from the house 1" for every 1' from the house for a minimum of 8' so 8" in 8'. If you have room to keep your grade lower than 8" i'd drop it.

[block]

Thanks Pokey.
That sounds like a good standard to go by. I will keep these figures in mind when finishing the grade. I will keep the dirt below the window while trying to maintain as much of downfall as possible. Sounds like I will have to find a happy medium. It will be awhile before I actually finish the final grade but I need to know where my final grade will be now so I can plan for proper sealing measures against the block below grade.
Thanks