Sumner County, TN Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)
Key Facts
- State Trigger
- One acre disturbed
- Local Review
- County stormwater rules
- Runoff
- No diversion onto neighbors
- Terrain
- Karst, sinkhole risk
Summary
Tennessee has no statewide grading permit. Earthwork disturbing one acre or more triggers a TDEC construction stormwater permit, and Sumner County reviews grading and drainage under its local rules.
Submitting a complete NOI, a SWPPP and an appropriate permitting application fee are required to obtain coverage under this general permit.
Full Breakdown
Grading in Sumner County is governed by state stormwater rules and local review rather than a single grading permit. Any earth-moving that disturbs one acre or more must obtain TDEC construction permit coverage and control runoff. The county and its MS4 cities review grading and drainage through subdivision and stormwater regulations, requiring that site drainage not divert concentrated runoff onto neighboring tracts. Karst limestone means sinkholes and springs can complicate drainage design here. Diverting stormwater onto an adjoining owner creates civil liability regardless of the acreage disturbed.
Violations & Fines
Grading an acre without TDEC permit coverage draws state penalties and stop-work orders. Diverting concentrated runoff onto a neighbor creates civil liability for drainage damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Sumner County require a grading permit?
My neighbor's regrading sends water onto my lot. What can I do?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sumner County
Compare Sumner County to another location·View the Tennessee environmental rules overview
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