Residential Lot Erosion and Sediment Control

Residential Lot Erosion and Sediment Control within a Subdivision

Lots that are to be disturbed for homebuilding that are within a subdivision (common plan of development) are required to have an approved erosion control plan, grading permit and coverage under NCG01. 

Residential Lot Erosion and Sediment Control outside a Subdivision

For individual lot construction outside a subdivision (common plan of development), an erosion and sediment control plan approval and grading permit are required if the land disturbance is equal to or greater than one (1) acre. 

Lots disturbing less than one (1) acre should utilize erosion and sediment control practices such as residential construction entrances and silt fence to prevent sediment loss to streams, buffers, and adjacent lots and roadways. 
 

The following steps are recommended to minimize off-site sedimentation:

1. Clear and grade no more than is absolutely necessary for building construction.
2. Do not disturb side ditches that have a good grass cover.
3. Leave a natural wooded or grass buffer where possible on slopes and near property lines.
4. Install a gravel entrance into the building site and keep it maintained as needed.
5. Install silt fencing, earthen berms, straw wattles, etc. to control muddy water during and after grading. Details on installation of these devices are available from our office at no charge. (Temporary devices have to be maintained regularly and are intended only for short term use.)
6. The use of temporary and/or permanent groundcover in conjunction with temporary devices is most effective in preventing soil erosion.

    Please contact Soil Erosion Section Chief, Kristi Cheek, at (336) 641-3803 or email kcheek@guilfordcountync.gov with any questions.