Norfolk, VA Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

Chapter 15, Erosion and Sediment Control, bars land-disturbing activity, defined at § 15-2 as clearing, grading, excavating, or filling that can cause soil erosion or sediment movement, until a plan is approved and a permit issued (§ 15-7). The director of public works reviews plans for city rights-of-way and drainage work, while the director of city planning reviews plans tied to site plan review; either official must act within 30 days or the plan is deemed approved (§ 15-8). Disturbed areas under 2,500 square feet, minor home gardening and landscaping, individual service connections, and several utility and agricultural activities are exempt under § 15-5, but any disturbance in a Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area exceeding 2,500 square feet, including construction of a single-family house, must comply regardless (§ 15-6).

Applicants pay a plan review and inspection fee set by the city manager and may be required to post a performance bond, cash bond, or letter of credit to guarantee conservation measures, refundable within 60 days of stabilization (§ 15-9). As of July 1, 2024, no land-disturbing or building permit issues until the applicant shows proof of coverage under the General VPDES Construction Stormwater Permit (§ 15-9(c)). The appropriate city official may issue a stop work order halting activity until corrective measures are taken, and violating a stop work order is a separate offense (§ 15-13).

Permit denials can be appealed in writing to the city manager within 30 days, with a decision due within 30 days, and further review lies with the Circuit Court (§ 15-15).