Erosion control in San Diego is governed by grading regulations under SDMC §§142.0101-142.050 and the Stormwater Standards Manual. All grading projects require erosion control measures that must be completed before final approval. The City Manager may extend grading permits up to 180 days for circumstances beyond the permittee's control. Construction projects must implement BMPs per state NPDES and local MS4 permit requirements.
San Diego mandates erosion and sediment control for construction sites and land-disturbing activities. Grading permits typically require an erosion control plan. Best management practices include silt fencing, straw wattles, erosion control blankets, stabilized construction entrances, and sediment basins. Disturbed areas must be stabilized within a set timeframe. Inspections required during construction. Permanent stabilization through vegetation or hardscape required upon completion. Violations can result in stop-work orders.
Missing erosion controls: stop-work order and fines $250 to $2,500. Sediment discharge to waterways: fines $1,000 to $25,000 per day. Failure to stabilize: daily fines until corrected.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
See how other cities in San Diego County handle erosion control.
See how San Diego's erosion control rules stack up against other locations.
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