Georgia Erosion Control Law: Statewide Environmental Rules Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: O.C.G.A. 12-7-1 et seq.
Stream buffer: 25 ft (50 ft trout)
Manual: Green Book
Civil penalty: Up to $2,500/day

Full Breakdown

O.C.G.A. Title 12, Chapter 7 (Erosion and Sedimentation Act of 1975) requires permits for land-disturbing activities. Projects must follow the Manual for Erosion and Sediment Control in Georgia ('Green Book'). A 25-foot undisturbed buffer applies along state waters (50 feet along trout streams). Operators, designers, and inspectors must be certified through state-approved training. Local governments may serve as 'Local Issuing Authorities' if their ordinances meet or exceed state minimums; otherwise, EPD issues permits. Single-family home construction on individual lots may be exempt unless part of a larger common plan.

Violations & Penalties

Civil penalties may reach $2,500 per day per violation, plus stop-work orders. Repeated or willful violations can trigger criminal misdemeanor liability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Georgia's erosion act apply if my city has no ordinance?

Yes. The state act applies statewide. If a city or county is not certified as a Local Issuing Authority, EPD enforces permits and standards directly.

Is single-family construction exempt from Georgia erosion permits?

Individual single-family lots not part of a common development plan may be exempt, but a 25-foot stream buffer and basic best management practices still apply.

Georgia Erosion and Sedimentation Act Statewide Mandate

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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