Chicago requires erosion and sediment control for all construction activities under the Stormwater Management Ordinance (MCC 11-18) and the Chicago Building Code. Construction sites must implement erosion control plans to prevent sediment from entering the sewer system.
Under MCC 11-18 and the Chicago Building Code, all construction projects must implement erosion and sediment control measures. The Stormwater Management Ordinance Manual specifies BMP requirements including silt fencing, inlet protection, stabilized construction entrances, and dust control. Projects disturbing one acre or more also require an NPDES permit from Illinois EPA (IEPA) under the federal Clean Water Act. Chicago's Department of Water Management reviews erosion control plans as part of the stormwater management review process. Soil compaction and loss of vegetation must be minimized to protect groundwater recharge.
Failure to implement required erosion controls may result in stop-work orders, fines of $500 to $1,000 per day, and IEPA enforcement for NPDES violations. Sediment discharge to waterways may trigger federal Clean Water Act penalties.
Chicago, IL
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle erosion control.
See how Chicago's erosion control rules stack up against other locations.
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