Erosion Control: Marana vs Oro Valley
How do erosion control rules compare between Marana, AZ and Oro Valley, AZ?
Marana and Oro Valley have similar restriction levels.
Marana, AZ
Pima County
Marana enforces erosion and sediment control through the Land Development Code grading and drainage provisions and the EPA NPDES stormwater permit program. Construction sites disturbing one acre or more must obtain an Arizona Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (AZPDES) Construction General Permit.
View full Marana rules →Oro Valley, AZ
Pima County
Oro Valley requires erosion and sediment control plans for all grading activity. The Town enforces strict hillside protections including NAOS preservation and slope disturbance limits.
View full Oro Valley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Marana | Oro Valley |
|---|---|---|
| Threshold | 1+ acre disturbance requires AZPDES CGP | - |
| SWPPP | Required for all permitted sites | - |
| Local Enforcement | Building inspectors verify controls | - |
| ADEQ Penalty | Up to $25,000/day | - |
| Flood District | Pima County RFCD has co-jurisdiction | - |
| Hillside Slope Limit | - | No grading over 25 percent slope |
| NAOS Requirement | - | 30-50 percent undisturbed on hillside lots |
| Dust Control | - | Watering twice daily required |
| Revegetation | - | Native Sonoran species required |
| Plan Required | - | Erosion and sediment control plan |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Marana FAQ
Do I need an erosion control plan for my Marana building project?
Yes, for any project involving grading or land disturbance. Sites of one acre or more also need an AZPDES Construction General Permit from ADEQ with a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan.
Who enforces erosion control in Marana?
Both Marana building inspectors and ADEQ enforce erosion control requirements. The Pima County Regional Flood Control District also has authority over erosion along washes and floodplain areas.
Oro Valley FAQ
Can I grade a steep lot in the Catalina foothills area of Oro Valley?
The Hillside Development Zone restricts grading on slopes over 15 percent and prohibits disturbance of slopes over 25 percent except for driveway access. A significant portion of the lot must remain as Natural Area Open Space.
What dust control is required during construction?
The Town and Pima County DEQ require watering of disturbed areas at least twice daily, stabilized construction entrances, trackout control, and dust suppression on all exposed soil during construction.
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