Tarrant County, TX Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)
Key Facts
- Detail
- TCEQ TXR150000 applies to sites 1+ acre disturbance
- Detail
- SWPPP must include erosion and sediment control BMPs
- Requirement
- Inspections required every 14 days + after 0.5
- Detail
- Stabilization within 14 days of reaching final grade
- Detail
- Agricultural activities largely exempt under state law
Summary
Erosion and sediment control in Tarrant County is required under TCEQ TXR150000 for sites 1 acre or larger, plus MS4 rules. Common BMPs include silt fence, rock check dams, and stabilized construction entrances.
Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWP3): The CGP requires construction site operators to develop and implement a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWP3) prior to commencing construction. A SWP3 is a document that outlines construction plans and best management practices (BMPs) to control pollutants that may be discharged in stormwater runoff. Small Business and Local Government Assistance (SBLGA) has developed templates to help you develop your SWP3. [...] Waivers for Small Construction Activities — Low Potential for Erosion: You may be automatically authorized under this general permit if your construction activity occurs during periods of low potential for erosion. Low Rainfall Erosivity Waiver: You may be eligible for this waiver if your construction activity has a low potential to wash away soil, as determined using the erosivity factor.
Full Breakdown
Erosion and sediment control (ESC) on construction sites in Tarrant County flows from two layered requirements: the TCEQ Construction General Permit TXR150000 for any site disturbing 1 acre or more, and the MS4 stormwater permits held by Tarrant County (TXR040000) and each permitted city. Under the Construction General Permit, an operator must prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) describing erosion-control BMPs (minimize soil disturbance, phase grading, stabilize exposed soils within 14 days of reaching final grade) and sediment-control BMPs (silt fence, triangular silt dikes, rock berm check dams, inlet protection, stabilized construction entrance).
5 inch or more, with written reports. Tarrant County Public Works may require an erosion-control plan with subdivision plats and floodplain development permits. In incorporated cities, a local site-development permit often requires a separate ESC plan that may exceed state minimums. The heavy clay and rapid summer thunderstorms typical of the DFW region make inadequate ESC particularly damaging; topsoil loss and sediment deposits in streets and storm drains are common enforcement triggers. Agricultural activities are largely exempt under state law, but silviculture, forestry, and routine utility maintenance have their own rules.
Violations & Fines
Failure to install or maintain required BMPs is a violation of TXR150000 enforced by TCEQ with penalties up to $25,000 per day under TX Water Code 7.102. Tarrant County Public Works and city engineers can issue stop-work orders for inadequate erosion control. Sediment in public streets or storm drains can be charged back to the responsible contractor for cleanup under local ordinance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What erosion-control BMPs are required on Tarrant County construction sites?
How often must I inspect erosion controls?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Tarrant County
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