Takoma Park, MD Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

Erosion and sediment control in Takoma Park is enforced by Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services under Chapter 19 of the county code, which implements Maryland's Erosion and Sediment Control Law (Environment Article 4-101 through 4-116). Any project disturbing 5,000 square feet or more of earth requires a formal erosion and sediment control plan approved by the county before work begins. The plan must detail all control measures including sediment barriers, slope stabilization, stabilized construction entrances, dust control, and final site stabilization. Even projects below the 5,000-square-foot threshold must implement best management practices to prevent sediment from leaving the site. Common required measures include silt fencing around the perimeter of disturbed areas, stabilized construction entrance pads to prevent mud tracking onto streets, inlet protection around storm drains, and prompt stabilization of exposed soils within 14 days of final grading. Temporary seeding or mulching is required on any exposed soil that will remain undisturbed for more than 14 days. Permanent stabilization must be achieved within the time frames specified in the approved plan. Montgomery County inspectors conduct regular site visits during construction and have authority to issue stop-work orders for noncompliance. Contact Montgomery County DPS at 240-777-0311 for plan submissions.