Why is sediment and erosion control important
Disturbed soils, silt, litter and other material loose in the environment have the potential to end up as deposits in our stormwater drains, streams, rivers and dams. These materials can cause short and long term environmental problems such as:
- loss of habitat and increased turbidity in natural waterways
- blocked stormwater drains leading to street flooding and increased maintenance costs
- silting up of rivers and streams leading to the increased risk of flooding
- increased public health issues as a result of increased algal blooms
The benefits of effective onsite sediment and erosion control
Effective onsite sediment and erosion control provides many environmental, social and economic benefits. Some of the benefits include:
- improved Occupational Health and Safety on the building site
- reduced clean up costs
- improved wet weather working conditions, reduced downtime and earlier building completion
- improved waterways, better fishing, boating and water skiing
What are the responsibilities of the builder
Developers and builders (including other tradesmen, subcontractors and delivery drivers) have a legal obligation to take all reasonable care to prevent material (soil, sand, litter) from leaving construction sites.
Under the Protection of the Environment Operations (POEO) Act 1997, prosecution and on-the-spot fines of up to $1500 apply to persons who allow soil or other pollutants to enter stormwater drains or waterways.
When do sediment and erosion controls need to be in place
As part of the application process Council will require the submission of a sediment and erosion control plan in relation to earthworks or site improvements (e.g. floor slab preparation, footings excavation, trenching for in-ground services etc).
Control measures need to be installed before excavation or site disturbance. They need to be maintained in good working order and repair throughout the construction or the development work. The control measures should remain in place until 70% revegetation cover has been established.
Further Information on Sediment and Erosion Control