Erosion and Sediment Control Program

CHAPTER 102

What is Sediment Pollution?

          The Clean Stream Law defines sediment as a form of pollution and authorizes the development of regulations for its control.  Sediment pollution is soil that is out of place as a result human activity.  Although some soil erosion occurs naturally, the rate of erosion from an unprotected construction site can be over 2000 times the natural rate. 

      The NCCD administers the Chapter 102 Erosion Control program through a signed delegation agreement with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Bureau of Water Quality.  Under Chapter 102 delegation, NCCD conducts the following program responsibilities:

• Technical Plan Reviews

• Site Inspections

• Complaint Investigations

• Information & Education

     The District Engineering Technician reviews and approves E&S control plans for earthmoving sites.  Inspections of the sites are conducted to assure the plans are properly implemented. Click here for the fee schedule and application. 

     For small projects, click here for an application.

           The NCCD administers the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), the permitting for storm water discharge from construction activity, and Level II of the Erosion and Sediment Pollution Control program.  This program requires any earthmoving activities disturbing greater than 1 acre over the life of the project to obtain a permit.  In addition, projects with less than 1 acre of disturbance may require District review to meet municipal, state or federal requirements.  

Permit applications are available on DEP's website.