Gilroy, CA Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

City Code § 6.7(a)(16) adopts Appendix J, Grading, and § 6.7(a)(17) adds local subsections to Appendix J Section J110, Erosion Control. Section J110.3 requires applicants to submit an Interim Erosion and Sediment Control Plan, which can be incorporated into the grading plan, showing maximum surface runoff calculated by a method the Building Official approves, the surface-runoff and erosion-control measures to be used including mulching, and vegetative measures including seeding and a maintenance schedule. Where no permanent improvements are planned, the applicant must submit an interim plan to control runoff for as long as the site stays unimproved, plus a request for release once grading is complete.

Every applicant must submit a master work schedule covering the grading schedule, site conditions on July 15, August 15, September 15 and October 15 during the permit period, installation of interim and final erosion controls, and construction of final improvements. During the wet season, October 15 to April 15, starting grading requires special documentation showing a non-financial reason for the timing, and continuing work other than maintenance of erosion controls requires written permission from the Building Official renewed every five working days, granted based on weather forecasts and experience.

Section J110.4 requires contractors to control dust and mud from spreading off site, submitting control measures to the Building Official before grading begins, on pain of suspension. Section J110.5 requires grading to stop immediately if human remains, artifacts or fossils are discovered, with the Sheriff-Coroner and Building Official notified for human remains.