Newport Beach, CA Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

Newport Beach's Grading Code (NBMC Title 15) and Water Quality ordinance require comprehensive erosion control on all earth-disturbing activities. Before grading begins, projects must submit an erosion control plan showing temporary best management practices including silt fences, fiber rolls, hydroseeding, stabilized construction entrances, sediment basins, and proper stockpile management. All grading permits require an active erosion control plan throughout the rainy season (October 1 through April 30). During this period, projects must maintain BMPs capable of controlling erosion from rain events. The city inspects construction sites before predicted storms and can issue stop-work orders for non-compliant sites. Permanent erosion control must be established through landscaping, retaining walls, drainage structures, or other stabilization methods before final grading inspection approval. Projects in the Coastal Zone face heightened erosion control requirements due to proximity to sensitive coastal habitats and Newport Bay. Bluff and coastal properties must address long-term erosion and sea-level rise in their grading and development plans per the Local Coastal Program.