Erosion Control: Ontario vs Rialto
How do erosion control rules compare between Ontario, CA and Rialto, CA?
Ontario and Rialto have similar restriction levels.
Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario requires active erosion control on all graded sites year-round under OMC Chapter 5 Article VI, with enhanced Best Management Practices from October 1 through April 30 during the rainy season.
View full Ontario 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 | Ontario | Rialto |
|---|---|---|
| Wet season | Oct 1 - Apr 30 | - |
| BMP examples | Silt fence, fiber rolls, tarps | - |
| Track-out | Clean daily | - |
| QSP | Required over 1 acre | - |
| 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.
Ontario FAQ
Do I need erosion control on a small lot grading?
Yes, any disturbed soil requires BMPs under OMC Chapter 5 Article VI even on small residential projects.
What triggers a stop-work order?
Failure to install or maintain required BMPs, especially during rain events, can trigger an immediate stop-work order from Public Works inspectors.
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.
Compare other topics
See how Ontario and Rialto compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool