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Tennessee Statewide Rule

Tennessee Erosion and Sediment Control Statewide Rules

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Tennessee (2026)

Key Facts

Inspection Frequency
Every 7 days
Rain Event Trigger
0.5 inches in 24 hours
Stabilization Deadline
14 days post-cessation
Authority
TDEC Division Water Resources
Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Justia Law

Summary

Tennessee's Water Quality Control Act and TDEC rules require erosion and sediment controls on regulated construction sites, with state inspectors empowered to enforce requirements regardless of city limits.

(i) Sediment shall be prevented from entering other waters of the state; (ii) Erosion and sediment controls shall be designed according to the size and slope of disturbed or drainage areas to detain runoff and trap sediment and shall be properly selected, installed, and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications and good engineering practices; (iii) Erosion and sediment control measures shall be in place and functional before earth moving operations begin, and shall be constructed and maintained throughout the construction period.

Source: Justia LawView official code

Full Breakdown

Tenn. Code Ann. Section 69-3-108 and TDEC Rule 0400-40-10 require operators of regulated construction activities to install and maintain erosion prevention and sediment control (EPSC) measures including silt fence, stabilized construction entrances, and inlet protection. The Construction General Permit mandates self-inspections every seven calendar days and within 24 hours of qualifying rain events. Stabilization of disturbed areas must occur within 14 days of work cessation. State enforcement applies even within MS4 jurisdictions where local programs exist, and TDEC retains overlapping inspection authority.

Violations & Penalties

Civil penalties up to $10,000 per day per violation, plus stop-work orders and mandatory restoration of impacted waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often must I inspect erosion controls in Tennessee?
TDEC's Construction General Permit requires self-inspections at least every seven calendar days plus within 24 hours after rainfall events of 0.5 inches or greater.
When must disturbed soil be stabilized in Tennessee?
Permanent or temporary stabilization must begin within 14 days after construction activity temporarily or permanently ceases on any portion of the site.

Sources

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