Lansing, MI Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)
Key Facts
- Trigger
- 1+ acre of earth disturbed
- Trigger
- Within 500 ft of water
- Permit issuer
- City Engineer
- Financial assurance
- Bond or letter of credit
Summary
Lansing requires a Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control (SESC) permit from the City Engineer before any earth change disturbing one acre or more, or within 500 feet of a lake or stream, under Lansing Codified Ordinances § 1218.06.
Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, a land owner or designated agent, who contracts for, allows or engages in any earth changes which disturbs one or more acres of land, or which is within 500 feet of a lake or stream, shall obtain a SESC permit issued by the City Engineer prior to the commencement of such earth changes. The SESC permit shall be issued to the landowner, as defined in the promulgated rules.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 64).
Full Breakdown
The City Engineer, through the Department of Public Service, administers Lansing's SESC program under Chapter 1218. A landowner or designated agent must obtain a permit before starting earth changes, cutting, filling, grading, that disturb one acre or more, or fall within 500 feet of a lake or stream (§ 1218.06). Applicants submit an erosion and sediment control plan prepared by a qualified professional (§ 1218.07) and post a bond or letter of credit sufficient to cover the required control measures (§ 1218.08). Building permits for such earth changes are held until the SESC permit issues (§ 1218.05).
Violations & Fines
Violating Chapter 1218 is a municipal civil infraction; knowing violations carry fines up to $10,000 per day, and $2,500–$25,000 per day after a formal Notice of Violation, under § 1218.99.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Lansing require a soil erosion permit?
Who enforces Lansing's erosion control rules?
Sources & Official References
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