Erosion Control: Rialto vs San Bernardino
How do erosion control rules compare between Rialto, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Rialto and San Bernardino have similar restriction levels.
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 →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino requires erosion and sediment controls on all grading and construction sites. Projects over 1 acre trigger the State Construction General Permit and a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Rialto | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| SWPPP Threshold | - | 1 acre disturbed soil |
| General Permit | - | Order 2022-0057-DWQ |
| Rainy Season | - | October 1 to April 30 |
| PM10 Dust Rule | - | SCAQMD Rule 403 |
| Hillside Trigger | - | 10% slope |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
San Bernardino FAQ
Do I need a SWPPP for my San Bernardino home addition?
Single-family additions disturbing less than 1 acre generally do not need state permit coverage. You must still implement basic erosion controls such as silt fence, covered stockpiles, and a stabilized driveway entrance under San Bernardino grading rules.
Who enforces erosion control on San Bernardino construction sites?
San Bernardino Public Works inspects local sites for compliance with grading rules and street track-out. The Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board enforces the State Construction General Permit, and SCAQMD enforces PM10 dust rules.
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