Shreveport, LA Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit trigger
- Any land altering activity
- Inspections required
- Every two weeks and after rain
- Rain-event threshold
- One-half inch or more
- SWPPP threshold
- One acre disturbed
- Fine
- Up to $500 per day per violation
Summary
Shreveport requires an erosion and sedimentation control permit from the Department of Engineering and Environmental Services before clearing, grading, excavating or filling anywhere in the city or the Cross Lake watershed, with only narrow exemptions.
The erosion control plan shall include, at a minimum, the following: a description of temporary and permanent structural controls; temporary and final stabilization; an erosion control inspection schedule providing for site inspections at least every two weeks and after each rain event of ½-inch or more; and a list of measures to minimize off-site tracking of sediment by vehicles.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 85 Update 1 | Unified Development Code: Supplement 20).
Full Breakdown
Chapter 34, Article IV applies to any land altering activity: clearing, grading, excavating, filling, parking lots, buildings, retaining walls, storm drainage and utility mains. Exemptions are limited to small home gardens, minor utility repairs, and tilling by farmers who hold a Caddo Soil and Water Conservation District plan. The application needs a grading and drainage plan, an erosion control plan showing temporary and permanent measures, a schedule of activities, 100-year floodplain and floodway limits, and street drainage layout. Sites disturbing five or more acres must attach the Notice of Intent for the state construction general permit; sites over one acre must include a full stormwater pollution prevention plan. The city engineer rules within ten days.
Violations & Fines
Stop work orders, permit revocation, administrative fines up to $500 per day per violation, water service termination, liens on unpaid fines, and misdemeanor prosecution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a small backyard project need a permit?
How often must erosion controls be inspected?
Who enforces this?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Shreveport
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