Erosion and Sediment Control

Erosion and sediment control measures are required during construction to prevent soil loss, protect adjacent properties, and keep sediment and construction-related pollutants out of the storm drain system and local waterways.

 

If a project includes both grading and building activities, required Best Management Practices (BMPs) for erosion, sediment, and stormwater control will be reviewed, approved, and enforced through the grading permit. For projects that do not require a grading permit, these BMP requirements will instead be reviewed and incorporated as part of the building permit review process. BMPs associated with earthwork, site preparation, and construction activities are incorporated into the grading permit to ensure consistent implementation and inspection throughout the project.

Proper installation and maintenance of erosion and sediment control measures include:
  • Silt Fencing – Installed along the perimeter of disturbed areas to capture sediment from runoff.
  • Fiber Rolls / Straw Wattles – Used on slopes and along contours to slow runoff and reduce erosion.
  • Gravel Bags – Placed at inlets or along flow paths to reduce velocity and trap sediment.
  • Stabilized Construction Entrance/Exit – Prevents tracking of sediment onto public streets.
  • Inlet Protection – Covers or barriers installed at storm drain inlets to prevent sediment entry.
  • Hydraulic Mulch or Hydroseeding – Temporary soil stabilization to protect exposed soil.
  • Soil Binders – Applied to disturbed areas to reduce dust and erosion.
  • Slope Roughening / Terracing – Reduces runoff velocity and improves soil stability on slopes.
  • Temporary Drainage Swales – Direct runoff to controlled discharge points.
  • Sediment Traps or Basins – Capture sediment-laden runoff on larger sites.
  • Dust Control Measures – Watering or soil treatments to minimize wind erosion.
  • Good Housekeeping Practices – Proper material storage, waste containment, and spill prevention.
  • Street Sweeping and Sediment Removal – Removes tracked sediment from paved surfaces.
  • Temporary Check Dams – Installed in swales or ditches to slow runoff and capture sediment.
  • For a full list, click on the BASMAA webpage and look for best management practices. 

Implementing erosion and sediment controls must be installed in compliance with the approved Erosion and Sediment Control Checklist (ESCC) and applicable regulations to maintain site safety, prevent damage to public infrastructure, and ensure compliance throughout all phases of construction.

An Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP), prepared by the design professional, and an accompanying erosion and sediment control checklist are required for projects where:

  • Projects subject to a grading permit under BMC Chapter 15.73, Grading and Erosion Control.
  • Projects that require a building permit or construction permit and have the potential for significant erosion or significant non-stormwater discharges of sediment or construction site waste.
  • Projects involving hillside soil disturbance, including cuts, fills, or slope modification.
  • Projects with construction occurring during the rainy season (October 15 to April 15 of each year).
  • Projects located near creeks, streams, or intermittent or ephemeral drainageways.
  • Projects that, due to site conditions or construction activities, could result in a discharge to the storm drain system if not properly managed.
  • Any other project required by the Building Official, based on site-specific conditions and potential impacts.