DC requires erosion and sediment control plans for all land-disturbing activities under 21 DCMR Chapter 5. Construction sites must implement Best Management Practices (BMPs) to prevent sediment from leaving the site and entering the District's waterways.
Any land-disturbing activity in DC requires an approved erosion and sediment control plan before work begins. Contractors must install silt fences, sediment traps, stabilized construction entrances, and other BMPs. Plans must be submitted to DOEE for review and approval. Construction sites are subject to inspection, and all exposed soil must be stabilized within 7 days of final grading. Projects disturbing one or more acres must also obtain coverage under the EPA's NPDES Construction General Permit. DC's regulations are designed to protect the Anacostia and Potomac Rivers and Rock Creek.
Violations can result in stop-work orders, fines of up to $25,000 per day, and required remediation. Repeat violations may lead to contractor debarment from DC projects.
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See how Washington's erosion control rules stack up against other locations.
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