Vestavia Hills, AL Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

The city's Department of Building Safety administers the permit under Sec. 5-40, and the official must approve or reject a Best Management Practices (BMP) plan within 14 days of filing, in writing if denied. Facilities covered by an ADEM NPDES construction storm water permit must also submit ADEM's notice of registration. Sec. 5-41 sets the non-refundable application fee at $400 for an individual single-family residence and $1,000 for every other land-disturbing project, with an added $2,000 fee where post-construction controls are required and a $50 annual issuance fee to cover ongoing inspections under Sec.

5-42. Minor activities under 500 square feet, such as home gardening or driveway grading not tied to new construction, are exempted under Sec. 5-66, though the official retains discretion over what counts as minor. Sec. 5-91(12) requires the applicant to post a letter of credit, surety bond or cash bond before work starts: $2,000 per acre for clearing alone, $5,000 per acre for clearing plus earthwork, reduced to $3,000 for a single-family lot if the owner has completed the Jefferson County Erosion Workshop or holds a qualified credentialed inspector certification, and doubled in floodways, floodplains or landslide-prone areas. 75 inch in 24 hours. Beginning work before the permit issues triggers a $100 penalty plus a doubled fee under Sec. 5-41.