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Centennial, CO Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Permit name
GESC Permit
Issued by
SEMSWA (regional drainage authority)
Trigger
Any land disturbing activity
Manual dated
May 2019

Summary

Any land-disturbing activity in Centennial needs a Grading, Erosion, and Sediment Control permit issued by SEMSWA before disturbance begins, under standards in the regional GESC Manual.

GESC permits are required for all land disturbing activities, prior to the disturbance. The permits are issued by SEMSWA according to the criteria of the GESC Manual. See Section 12-11-403, Grading, Erosion, and Sediment Control Manual.

Full Breakdown

Centennial's Land Development Code requires a GESC permit for all land disturbing activities, obtained prior to the disturbance. The Southeast Metro Stormwater Authority (SEMSWA), the drainage authority formed by intergovernmental agreement among Centennial, Arapahoe County, and area water and sanitation districts, issues the permit and applies the criteria of the SEMSWA Grading, Erosion, and Sediment Control Manual, a document adopted and amendable by City Council resolution and dated May 2019. The permit is typically obtained after site plan approval, if one is required, and before the disturbing activity commences.

Violations & Fines

Disturbing land without an approved GESC permit is an LDC violation subject to enforcement and a hold on further development orders under Article 15, Enforcement and Remedies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who issues Centennial's grading permit?
SEMSWA, the Southeast Metro Stormwater Authority, issues GESC permits under Sec. 12-14-502 for any land disturbing activity in the City.
When must I get the GESC permit?
Before the land disturbance begins, and generally after site plan approval if the project requires a site plan.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Centennial

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