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Davenport, IA Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

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

Key Facts

Code
Municipal Code § 13.34.320
State Permit
Iowa DNR NPDES GP #2
NPDES Threshold
1 acre disturbed
Soil Restoration
5% organic matter, 8 inches
Inspections
Required during construction

Summary

Davenport requires erosion and sediment control on construction sites, tied to its stormwater code (Chapter 13.34) and Iowa DNR's NPDES construction permit. Disturbed soil must be retained on site and stabilized, with topsoil restored before final occupancy.

Amend existing site topsoil or subsoil to a minimum rate of 5% organic matter content and a pH from 6.0 to 8.0 or matching the pH of the original undisturbed soil using methods specified in the Iowa Storm Water Management Manual.

Source: Davenport Municipal CodeView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4820400; v43 updated 2026-03-11; through 03-11-2026).

Full Breakdown

Land-disturbing work in Davenport must control erosion under Chapter 13.34. Section 13.34.320 requires soil retention on site per Iowa DNR NPDES General Permit No. 2 and soil quality restoration, amending topsoil to at least 5% organic matter, a pH of 6.0 to 8.0, and a minimum eight-inch depth, so cleared ground regains its capacity to absorb rain. Construction inspections occur under Section 13.34.080, and best management practices such as silt fence and stabilized entrances follow the Iowa Stormwater Management Manual and SUDAS. Sites disturbing one acre or more must obtain Iowa DNR's General Permit No. 2 before work begins.

Violations & Fines

Missing or failed erosion controls draw stop-work orders and correction notices from Public Works; sediment discharged off site or into waterways violates the NPDES permit and the stormwater code, and completion bonds may be forfeited.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need erosion control for a small project in Davenport?
Erosion and sediment control applies to construction and land-disturbing work. Projects disturbing one acre or more also need Iowa DNR's NPDES General Permit No. 2. Routine yard work is exempt.
What is soil quality restoration?
After grading, Davenport requires cleared areas to be amended to at least 5% organic matter and eight inches deep, restoring the soil's ability to soak up rainfall and cut runoff.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Davenport

Stormwater ManagementSome RestrictionsFlood ZonesHeavy RestrictionsCoastal DevelopmentSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Exotic PetsHeavy RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage TreesSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Weed OrdinancesSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Tree TrimmingSome RestrictionsSign Regulations: Holiday DisplaysFew RestrictionsSign Regulations: Garage Sale SignsSome Restrictions

All Davenport rules

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