Novato, CA Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

Section 7-4.10c of the Novato Municipal Code, part of the Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Ordinance adopted by Ordinance No. 1600 on June 16, 2015, requires any person performing construction activities in the city to implement appropriate best management practices so construction wastes and contaminants from materials, tools and equipment stay out of the storm drain system and watercourses. Section 7-4.3 defines construction activity as any soil disturbing activity, including clearing, paving, grading, stockpiling and excavation.

Construction-phase BMPs cover erosion control, sediment control and pollution prevention. For erosion control the code lists scheduling and timing of grading, timely revegetation of graded areas, hydroseed and hydraulic mulches, and erosion control blankets. For sediment control it lists properly sized detention basins, dams or filters and construction entrances that stop tracking of sediment onto adjacent streets. Erosion and sediment control products containing plastic monofilament netting are not allowed.

An erosion and sediment control plan (ESCP) is required for any project subject to a grading permit under Chapter VI, for any building or other permit project with potential for significant erosion or significant non-stormwater discharges of sediment, and for any other project the authorized enforcement official designates after considering hillside soil disturbance, rainy season construction or work near a creek or drainageway. The authorized enforcement official, defined in section 7-4.3 as the city manager or a duly authorized official, reviews and approves the plan. Applicants follow the MCSTOPPP Construction Erosion and Sediment Control Plan Applicant Package. At a minimum the ESCP describes the project, lists site-specific BMPs with the rationale for each, names applicable permits such as the state construction general permit, and proves those permits were obtained before approval. Projects under the construction general permit can submit a SWPPP instead of an ESCP.

The approved ESCP is a condition of the building permit, grading permit or other city permit, must be implemented year round, and must be updated as site conditions change. The city can also require financial security, in the form of an irrevocable letter of credit, cash deposit or performance bond, for temporary stormwater pollution controls during and after construction.