Erosion Control: Apex vs Raleigh

When does my Apex project trigger an erosion control plan?

At 20,000 square feet of land disturbance under the Apex Soil and Erosion Control Ordinance — far lower than the 1-acre threshold in the state Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 (NCGS 113A-50 et seq.). Application fees are $600 per disturbed acre rounded to the nearest 1/10 with no maximum, plus a $2,500-per-acre performance guarantee due before plan approval. Apply through the Town's Stormwater Field Services Supervisor at (919) 362-8166. Sites of 1 acre or more must also enroll in the NC DEMLR NPDES Construction General Permit NCG010000.

Why is erosion control stricter in Apex than under state law?

Apex sits in the Upper New Hope arm of the B. Everett Jordan Reservoir watershed and partly in the Swift Creek TMDL watershed — both of which are already impaired by nutrients and sediment. The Town has lowered the disturbance trigger to 20,000 square feet (about 0.46 acre) rather than the state's 1-acre floor, requires erosion measures on every site regardless of size, and posts a $2,500-per-disturbed-acre performance guarantee. Violations carry civil penalties up to $5,000 per day under NCGS 113A-64.

What triggers an erosion control plan in Raleigh?

Any land-disturbing activity of 12,000 square feet or more requires an approved erosion and sediment control plan before work begins. A land disturbance permit must be obtained from the city.

What standards apply to Raleigh erosion control?

Plans must meet requirements of both the Raleigh Stormwater Design Manual and the NC Erosion and Sediment Control Planning and Design Manual. Where they conflict, the more stringent standard applies.