Pearland, TX Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

Sec. 30-146 of the General Code applies to all subdivision and site plan applications and to any construction activity that disturbs the topsoil, and it requires performance standards be applied at new development sites where construction disturbs one or more acres of land. Sec. 30-146(c) makes it unlawful to conduct any land-disturbing activity without a city-issued permit, which can include a site work permit, building permit, grading permit, or major construction improvement permit. Large construction activity operators must maintain an NPDES or TPDES general permit and submit to the city engineer a copy of the notice of intent filed with EPA or TCEQ, a site plan showing erosion control measure locations, and a construction site storm water pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) before obtaining a city construction permit.

Smaller sites disturbing less than one acre must instead implement and maintain a copy of a city-approved erosion control plan at the site. Design requirements under Sec. 30-146(i) mandate that all grading plans comply with the Unified Development Code and the city's Engineering Design Criteria Manual, and that erosion and sediment control practices be adequate to prevent sediment from leaving the site; clearing techniques must retain natural vegetation and drainage patterns where practicable, using ditches, berms, or other best management practices, and protecting slopes with erosion control blankets or turf reinforcement mats.

The rule exempts additions or modifications to an existing single-family structure and repairs to a stormwater treatment facility the city deems necessary. The city engineer reviews each SWPPP and may approve it, approve it with conditions, or disapprove it and require a revised submission under Sec. 30-146(d).