Erosion and Sediment Control

The County has developed, implemented and will enforce an Erosion and Sediment control Program designed to reduce pollutants associated with construction activities from the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) to the maximum extent practicable.

The County's Erosion and Sediment Control Manual provides technical guidance for the design, installation, inspection, and maintenance of temporary and permanent erosion prevention and sediment control measures. The manual is intended for use by site designers, developers, contractors, and inspectors during all activities where there will be disturbed earth for projects located within the MS4 Area as well as from public and private development and/or construction activities. The Best Management Practices (BMP’s) for Construction Sites Flyer provides information on ways to reduce or eliminate erosion and pollution from leaving construction sites.

When do Erosion and Sediment Control Requirements Pertain to my Project?

The County requires an Erosion and Sediment Control Permit before commencing land disturbance activities for construction sites with land disturbance of 1/4 acre (10,890 square feet) or greater, cumulatively, within the MS4 Stormwater Management Area. 

Click here for a worksheet that can help determine if an Erosion and Sediment Control Permit is required.

When an Erosion and Sediment Control Permit is required, the applicant will need to provide an Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP). 

• For minor land disturbance activities an Erosion and Sediment Control Site Plan is required. An ESCP template and ESC sample plan have been prepared for use. 
• For major land disturbance activities, an Erosion and Sediment Control Site Plan, prepared by a registered professional engineer, is required. A Designer's Checklist has been prepared that can help the Engineer prepare a complete set of plans.

(See the Erosion and Sediment Control Manual for definitions of minor and major land disturbance activities.)

The contractor will be required to perform inspections as outlined in the Erosion and Sediment Control Manual. An ESC Inspection template and a sample ESC Inspection form is provided.