Alameda, CA Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

6 of the Subdivision Ordinance, re-enacted by Ordinance No. on May 7, 2024, sets Alameda's construction-phase erosion and sediment control standard for every land division in the city. The core rule requires erosion and sediment control facilities to contain erosion-caused sediment deposits on site and discharge only sediment-free stormwater into the City's existing storm drain system and natural watercourses; drainage is barred from crossing interior property lines unless the City Engineer approves special circumstances after an easement is established. Grading and erosion control work during construction must be conducted so it does not sediment or otherwise damage off-site property, and the subdivider must show drainage, sedimentation and erosion control measures directly on the improvement plans submitted for City review.

Subsection (a) requires cut and fill slope faces to be prepared and maintained against erosion, and subsection (b) requires debris basins wherever necessary to protect the subdivision and downslope properties from erosion and sedimentation; a companion subsection requires temporary debris basins before grading begins, kept in place until permanent measures are installed and effective. 8, which lets the Planning Director, City Engineer, Planning Board or City Council grant exceptions to design standards for site-specific topographic or soil conditions.