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Hillsborough County, FL Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Governing permit
Natural Resources Permit
Covers
Grading, filling, excavating, clearing
Applies to
Unincorporated Hillsborough County only
Ag exemption cap
500 cubic yards off-site

Summary

Grading, filling, excavating, or otherwise changing the topography of land in unincorporated Hillsborough County is regulated 'land alteration': a Natural Resources Permit from the county Administrator is required before work starts, unless a listed exemption applies.

City-specific rules exist: Tampa has its own erosion control rules that differ from Hillsborough County's county-level regulations. If you live in Tampa, check the city-specific page instead.

Except as specifically exempted herein, it shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation, either individually or through an agent to cause land alteration within the unincorporated areas of Hillsborough County without having obtained a Natural Resources Permit from the Administrator, or to allow a condition which is the result of unauthorized land alteration activity to remain unremedied.

Source: Hillsborough Development ServicesView official code

Full Breakdown

LDC § 12.01.00 defines land alteration as any activity that changes land topography by grubbing, tree removal, clearing, grading, filling, or excavating. Under § 4.01.03.A, undertaking land alteration in the unincorporated county without a Natural Resources Permit is unlawful, and an unremedied unauthorized condition remains a continuing violation. Exemptions cover minor building additions, sprinkler/septic/pool installation that doesn't involve tree removal, previously-permitted single-family lots meeting drainage and tree conditions, and bona fide agricultural land alteration capped at 500 cubic yards removed off-site. Permit issuance doesn't excuse separate state or federal drainage and stormwater approvals over the same land.

Violations & Fines

Grading or filling without a Natural Resources Permit is unlawful land alteration; the property owner at the time a violation is discovered can be held responsible for remedying it under LDC § 11.06.00.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit just to regrade my yard?
If the work changes topography by grading or filling it meets the code's 'land alteration' definition and generally needs a Natural Resources Permit, unless it's minor fill for a septic system, sprinkler line, or pool that doesn't involve tree removal.
Does a county land alteration permit cover state stormwater/drainage rules too?
No. LDC § 4.01.03.B states a Natural Resources Permit doesn't excuse compliance with any other local, state, or federal agency's requirements over the same land.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Hillsborough County

Noise Ordinances: Quiet HoursSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsStormwater ManagementSome RestrictionsFlood ZonesSignificant RestrictionsFlood Elevation RequirementsSignificant RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Aircraft NoiseSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Decibel LimitsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSignificant Restrictions

All Hillsborough County rules

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Erosion Control in Cities Across Hillsborough County

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