Sangamon County, IL Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit trigger
- 4,000 sq ft disturbance or more
- Also triggers permit
- 200 cubic yards cut/fill
- Steep slope trigger
- Over 12% grade
- Issuing agency
- Dept. of Building Safety / County Engineer
- Fine range
- $25–$500 per day
Summary
Sangamon County requires an erosion control permit before grading, excavating or filling land in the unincorporated county once disturbance passes set size thresholds.
This section applies to the following types of land development or land disturbing activities. The following activities require an erosion control permit: Building and construction on any parcel of record. Any land disturbing activity affecting a surface of four thousand square feet or more. Excavation and/or filling two hundred cubic yards or more of ground, sand, or other excavation or fill material. Any land disturbing activity occurring on any size parcel for which a flood development permit is required. Street, highway, road or bridge construction, enlargement, relocation or reconstruction. Laying, repairing, replacing or enlarging an underground pipe, wire, cable or facility for a distance of three hundred feet or more. Disturbing any size land area on slopes greater than twelve percent grade. Other activities that pose a serious erosion or water pollution risk as determined by Sangamon County Department of Building Safety. This section shall not apply and no erosion control permit is required for the following activities: Agricultural land use; Gardening; Landscaping modifications except as part of a project for which a permit is required; Harvesting of trees; A land disturbing activity affecting less than four thousand square feet; Excavation or filling of less than two hundred cubic yards; Underground pipe and cable work for a distance of less than three hundred feet. Erosion Control Permit. Application.
Full Breakdown
Building or construction on any parcel of record, land disturbance of 4,000 square feet or more, excavation or fill of 200 cubic yards or more, and disturbance on slopes over 12% grade all trigger a permit under the county's Erosion Control Ordinance. Small residential sites file with the Department of Building Safety, which acts within one week; sites of five acres or more (other than a single dwelling) go through the county engineer, who can also require a surety bond equal to 125% of the erosion-control cost estimate. Agricultural use, gardening and small disturbances under the thresholds are exempt.
Violations & Fines
Notice of violation, then a stop-work order if uncorrected; the county may perform the corrective work itself and bill the owner. Fines run $25 to $500 per day, with each day a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every construction project need this permit?
What happens if I grade without a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sangamon County
Compare Sangamon County to another location·View the Illinois environmental rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.