Erosion control

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Erosion is the movement of soil particles by water, wind and gravity. Problems develop when land disturbing activities leave soils exposed to the elements. Muddy water from sites can empty directly into a storm drain. From there, it mixes with the clean waters of the nearest waterway, which carries mud, silt, and debris downstream.

All land disturbing activities require a signed erosion control agreement before a building permit is issued. Licensed contractors are required to provide a certified erosion control person. Homeowners can perform the erosion control requirements themselves.

General requirements:

  • Erosion control methods must be in place prior to beginning work and remain in place for the duration of construction activities.
  • Construction access must be covered with gravel.
  • Adjacent properties and environmentally sensitive areas must be protected prior to beginning work. These include, but are not limited to, water bodies, stormwater facilities, bioswales, storm drains and wetlands.
  • Erosion controls must be inspected, maintained and repaired as needed. Inspections must occur on a weekly basis and be recorded in an erosion control log kept on-site.
  • From October 1 through April 31, soils may not be exposed for more than two days. From May 1 through September 30, soils may not be exposed for more than seven days.

More erosion control tips:

  • Do not disturb more area than needed for construction.
  • Stabilizing exposed soils is essential to minimizing erosion. Techniques for temporary and permanent seeding can be found in our fact sheet BMP C120
  • Protect drainage inlets in roadways.
  • Remove soil or debris that has been transported onto roadway or sidewalk by shoveling or sweeping.

Erosion control signs

Specifications and artwork are provided for signage that may be required for your project.

Documents