Des Moines requires a grading permit and erosion and sediment control plan for most land-disturbing activities. Chapter 42, Article XI governs stormwater management, drainage, erosion, and grading, requiring Best Management Practices (BMPs) on construction sites.
Chapter 42 (Environment), Article XI of the Des Moines Code of Ordinances — titled 'Stormwater Management and Drainage, Erosion and Grading in Plats and Platted Lots' — requires grading permits under §42-86 for land-disturbing activities. Applicants must submit an erosion and sediment control plan meeting Iowa Stormwater Management Manual standards. Section 42-121 sets out permittee responsibilities, including installation and maintenance of BMPs such as silt fences, sediment basins, and stabilization measures. Illicit discharges (§42-453) and illicit connections (§42-454) are prohibited. Depositing dirt or debris that obstructs a waterway violates §42-455. Ordinance No. 16,253 (2023) updated subsidy provisions for stormwater BMPs.
Violations may result in stop-work orders, permit revocation, and civil penalties; repeat or serious violations referred to City Attorney for prosecution.
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See how Des Moines's erosion control rules stack up against other locations.
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