For construction projects that take place on sites smaller than 0.4 ha or one acre, including commercial, multi-family, and industrial sites, the design considerations will be different compared to such projects on larger areas. This means for owners, contractors, and developers who are working on one acre or less of land, a different Erosion and Sediment Control (ESC) plan is needed compared to larger areas.
Even on small sites, controlling the dust and sediment along with managing stormwater runoff is crucial to protecting the area. Left uncontrolled, the sediment buildup from the erosion could be considerable even on small areas. This means that all small sites that experience construction should be evaluated by the site developer, contractor, and owner to ensure that it complies will all federal, provincial, and city regulations.
A proper evaluation may mean discovering that regulatory permits are needed for the following conditions.
- Sites Adjacent or Within 100 meters upstream of any water body
- Sites with Steep Slopes
- Sites receiving Runoff from Adjacent Areas Upstream
This means that ESC practices must be put into place on constructions sites, even for single family homes. This has to be accomplished before any grading, installation of utilities or the construction of the building itself.
Proper Control Practices
There are four basic categories for proper ESC practices on small sites which include the following.
Site Preparation: This means prepping the site so that construction will have as minimal impact as possible on the area. This includes controlling erosion and removal of sediment buildup along with the following.
Perimeter Protection
- Keeping Existing Vegetation in place if Possible
- Topsoil Salvage & Placement
- Site Access & Egress
In addition to securing the site itself, ensuring that the access points to the site are properly addressed is also a must. This includes using stabilization methods to ensure that the soil remains in place.
Stormwater Management: A common issue is controlling the runoff created by stormwater. This means establishing proper drainage with a permit to be issued by the city.
Erosion Control: All soil must be stabilized before, during, and after the construction process. Permanent erosion control methods are recommended where possible on the small site.
Sediment Control: Dust, runoff laden with sediment, and tracking of sediment must be properly contained on the side. You cannot use adjacent streets or areas for the trapping and deposition of sediment.
Keep in mind that all the aforementioned methods must be put into place before construction begins. This means identifying potential areas for ESC planning. Plus, establishing perimeter controls to keep any sediment from reaching adjacent areas to the site. Such perimeter controls must be in-place before any activity which disturbs the soil is taken. This also means establishing perimeter protection around stockpiles if the material could migrate to offsite areas.
By taking the proper steps, you can effectively control the erosion and sediment on small areas. Be sure to follow all laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to ESC planning, even if your site is less than one acre.
Tag: Calgary, alberta, erosion control, Sediment Control, city, ESC, commercial, acre, considerations, contractors, developers, industrial sites, land, multi-family, plan, small sites
