Erosion Control: Fontana vs Rialto
How do erosion control rules compare between Fontana, CA and Rialto, CA?
Fontana and Rialto have similar restriction levels.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Fontana requires erosion and sediment-control BMPs on graded sites. The California Construction General Permit and FMC grading code require silt fences and stabilized entrances during the Oct-Apr wet season.
View full Fontana rules →Rialto, CA
San Bernardino County
Rialto requires erosion and sediment control Best Management Practices on all grading and construction sites under the California Building Code Appendix J (adopted in Title 15) and the city's grading ordinance. Projects disturbing 1 acre or more must obtain coverage under the State Construction General Permit (NPDES CAS000002) and implement a SWPPP. Wind-erosion (PM10) controls are also required by SCAQMD Rule 403 (Fugitive Dust) given Rialto's South Coast Air Basin location.
View full Rialto rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | Rialto |
|---|---|---|
| State Permit | Construction General Permit | - |
| Trigger | 1+ acre disturbed | - |
| Wet Season | Oct 1-Apr 30 | - |
| Grading Trigger | 50+ cubic yards | - |
| Daily Fine | Up to $500+ city | - |
| Grading code | - | CBC Appendix J via Rialto Title 15 |
| SWPPP threshold | - | 1 acre disturbed (Construction General Permit) |
| Fugitive dust rule | - | SCAQMD Rule 403 (any active disturbance >0.1 ac) |
| BMP standard | - | CASQA BMP Handbook |
| Penalties | - | Cal. Water Code §13385; SCAQMD Rule 403 enforcement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
Do I need erosion control for a small Fontana backyard project?
Small residential projects under 50 cubic yards typically do not need a grading permit, but you must still prevent sediment from entering the storm drain.
When is the rainy-season BMP period in Fontana?
October 1 through April 30. Active construction sites must have rain-ready BMPs deployed throughout this period.
Rialto FAQ
Do small backyard grading projects need erosion control?
Yes. Even sites under 1 acre must use BMPs such as silt fences or fiber rolls at the downhill edge under Title 15 and SCAQMD Rule 403. A grading permit is required for cuts/fills exceeding CBC Appendix J thresholds (generally 50 cubic yards).
What is a SWPPP and who can write one?
A Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan is required for any construction site of 1 acre or larger under the State Construction General Permit. It must be prepared by a Qualified SWPPP Developer (QSD) and implemented by a Qualified SWPPP Practitioner (QSP).
How long must erosion controls remain in place?
Until disturbed soil is permanently stabilized (70% vegetative cover or approved hardscape) and the Notice of Termination is approved by the State Water Board.
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