There are differences between ESC design considerations for large and small sites. A small site is one that is less than a single acre and typically includes duplex and single-family homes along with industrial, commercial, or multi-family sites that are considered relatively small in size. Although smaller, there is still the need to control the dust, sediment, and storm water that may be produced by the site during construction and development.
Each site no matter its size is considered unique and has its own erosion issues. This means that developers must comply with all municipal, provincial, and federal regulations during the construction process. You may need permits for sites that have the following qualifications;
- Subject to Runoff from Body of Water
- Adjacent to Steep Slopes
- Adjacent or Within 100 meters Upstream of a Body of Water
For sites that meets such qualifications, you will need to seek out the right permits for the proposed structure that will be built. ESC practices must be put into place until the construction is over and the site has stabilized.
General Practices
There are four different areas of control for erosion and sediments that will need to be put into place for small sites.
Preparation:The construction techniques used must minimize the erosion to the site and provide for offsite transport of pollutants and sediment. Additional preparation may be need for sites that are particularly vulnerable to erosion, such as areas exposed to high precipitation levels. The site must also have an ESC planned perimeter as well.
This involves preserving the existing vegetation on the site that surrounds the construction. Buffer strips should be used when necessary around the perimeter to limit any damage. This will assist in trapping sediment while reducing runoff. Entrance and exit roads must be stabilized with plywood sheeting, coarse woody slash, or gravel pads to minimize erosion. stockpiles of topsoil that is being salvaged must be protected also.
Water Management:Erosion that is caused by water runoff due to storms must be handled properly as well. This means addressing areas where water may run into exposed soil, such as on residential lots before they have been properly landscaped. You’ll need to get a drainage permit from the city before you can discharge any water into the drainage system or offsite by some other means.
Control of Erosion:With most construction projects on small sites lasting from 12 to 18 months, assuming no additional time is needed for the soil to be stabilized, it is crucial that steps be taken to ensure that all soil is properly placed to minimize erosion after the project has been completed. It is recommended that permanent erosion control is used where areas can be brought to grade in a quick fashion.
Control of Sediment:Once the proper erosion controls are in place, a proper plan to deal with the sediment runoff must be used as well. Proper tracking of sediment and dust from the construction side must be properly handled with no use of adjacent streets for trapping or deposition. For smaller sites, the plan needs to include the following guidelines;
- Identify all locations where sediment runoff might leave the construction site
- Use perimeter controls, such as silt fences, lot logs, and the like to reduce the potential for sediment to escape the site.
Before any grading or other activities that might disturb the soil be put into place, the proper protection must be set up so that sediment cannot leave the site. Once in place, then all efforts that disturb the soil on the smaller site can be used in the process of construction.
If you are planning construction on a site that consists of an acre or less, we can help you create the proper plan for erosion and sediment control. Our experts at Alberta Erosion and Sediment Control are here to help you comply with all applicable laws and ordinances, so please give us a call at (403) 460-0022 today and find out more about the services we have to offer for you.
Tag: Calgary ESC, erosion control, ESC For small sites, Sediment Control, Small site construction
