South Carolina Statewide Rule

South Carolina Sediment and Erosion Control Standards

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across South Carolina (2026)

Key Facts

Governing statute: SC Code 48-14, Reg 72-300
Inspection frequency: Every 7 days minimum
Stabilization standard: 70 percent vegetative cover
Rain trigger inspection: 0.5 inch event
Maximum penalty: $1,000 per day

Last verified: August 21, 2026Source: South Carolina Legislature

Summary

South Carolina's Sediment Reduction Act sets statewide minimum erosion and sediment-control standards for construction sites. SCDES (formerly DHEC) enforces uniform technical requirements that apply regardless of local jurisdiction.

The department shall implement a statewide erosion and sediment reduction and stormwater management program as follows: (1) The department is designated as the state agency responsible for developing, coordinating, and promoting erosion and sediment reduction and stormwater management programs in the State. (2) The department must develop general guidelines for reducing erosion and sedimentation and improving stormwater management for use by conservation districts, local government, landowners, and land users of the State. The department must publicize and promote these guidelines through information and education programs.

Source: South Carolina LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

Under SC Code Title 48, Chapter 14 and Regulation 72-300, all land disturbance of one acre or greater requires erosion and sediment-control best management practices including silt fences, sediment basins, stabilized construction entrances, and prompt seeding or stabilization. The SCDES Stormwater BMP Manual specifies technical design criteria that must be met. Sites must maintain controls until permanent stabilization of 70 percent vegetative cover. Inspections are required at least every seven days and after rain events of 0.5 inches or more.

Violations & Penalties

Failure to implement controls is enforceable by SCDES with civil penalties up to $1,000 per day per violation. Stop-work orders and mandatory restoration may be ordered, and repeat violators face escalated enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are erosion controls required after construction is complete?

Controls must remain in place until permanent stabilization is achieved, typically 70 percent vegetative cover. After that, post-construction stormwater controls take over.

Can my contractor ignore controls during dry weather?

No. State rules require functional sediment controls regardless of current weather, since storm events can occur without warning. Inspections continue weekly.

Who can be penalized for sediment violations?

The permittee, owner, and operator can each be liable. SCDES may pursue any responsible party for civil penalties and corrective action.

Sources

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