Reedley, CA Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

Erosion control in Reedley is regulated through the 2022 California Building Code grading provisions (Appendix J) as adopted under RMC Title 9 and stormwater quality requirements under Title 12, Chapter 2. All projects requiring a grading permit must submit an erosion and sediment control plan showing how disturbed soil will be stabilized during and after construction. The plan must identify specific best management practices (BMPs) for each phase of construction, demonstrate how runoff from the site will be managed to prevent sediment transport, and show where temporary and permanent erosion control devices will be installed. Required erosion control measures typically include silt fences installed along downslope perimeters of disturbed areas, fiber rolls (straw wattles) placed along contours to slow sheet flow, gravel bag barriers at low points and around storm drain inlets, stabilized construction entrances with minimum 50-foot gravel aprons to prevent mud tracking onto public streets, dust control through regular watering of exposed soils and unpaved haul roads, and stabilization of cut and fill slopes with erosion control blankets, hydroseeding, or temporary vegetation. Projects disturbing one acre or more of soil must prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) under the California State Water Resources Control Board Construction General Permit. The SWPPP must be developed by a Qualified SWPPP Developer (QSD) and implemented by a Qualified SWPPP Practitioner (QSP) who conducts regular site inspections, particularly before and after rainfall events. Reedley sits in the San Joaquin Valley where the Mediterranean climate produces hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The concentrated rainfall season between October and April creates significant erosion risks when construction activities leave soils exposed during storm events. Enhanced erosion controls are required during the wet season, including covering all soil stockpiles with plastic sheeting or tarps, completing rough grading activities before the onset of the rainy season when feasible, and installing additional perimeter controls before predicted storms. The Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board oversees water quality compliance for Reedley and the surrounding area, with particular attention to sediment and agricultural chemical runoff that can degrade the Kings River and groundwater resources. Post-construction, permanent erosion control measures such as landscaping, ground cover, retaining walls, and drainage improvements must be installed and approved before the Building Division issues a final inspection. The city may require performance bonds or security deposits for projects with significant grading to ensure erosion control measures are completed and maintained until the site is fully stabilized. Contact the Building Division at (559) 637-4200 for grading permit requirements and erosion control plan standards.