Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Program

To apply for a Soil Erosion Permit, visit our Self-Service Portal. A soil erosion and sedimentation control permit is required for:

An Earth change or disturbance over 1-acre
Projects more than 225 square feet within 500 feet of waters of the state — including a lake, stream, wetland, or drain

SELF-SERVICE PORTAL

We serve the communities in Oakland County that do not have a local soil erosion control program. View our jurisdiction map, to determine if you need to apply with us. See below for our FAQ, including the items needed for your soil erosion permit.

Soil Erosion Silt Fence Soil Erosion Silt Fence in neighborhood

The impact of soil erosion and sedimentation remain major concerns in areas undergoing construction. Improper site management can pollute our water resources. Our office administers the Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Act (Part 91 of PA 451 of 1994, as amended). This legislation aims to minimize erosion and control sedimentation to protect the state’s water resources.

Uncontrolled runoff during weather events, such as wind and rain, can wash soil off-site and into lakes and streams. Dirt can travel through ditches, pipes or across property, eventually being deposited into a creek, stream or wetland. Sediment can clog pipes and leave the streets muddy. It can ruin natural areas, wetlands, creeks and harm the plants and creatures living there. Residual sediment can also damage habitats for insects and fish.

New Homeowner Checklist

A permit is issued for building construction
The permit is transferred to the homeowner
Soil erosion protections are installed to keep soil on the property
Erosion controls are maintained until vegetation is established
Permanent landscaping is installed
The permit is renewed as needed until it is closed by our office

Lawn and Landscaping

If your yard does not have a lawn or landscaping, it’s important to follow certain requirements to keep soil and debris from leaving the property. This involves managing site activities and ensuring proper soil erosion controls are in place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on the slope and nature of your site, you are responsible for:

Maintaining a temporary silt fence around the lot
These controls must remain in place until grass is established. If they are removed for other projects, they must be reinstalled at the end of each day.

Establishing vegetation as quickly as possible
If the timing, budget or season is not appropriate for seeding or sod, install additional controls, such as mulch or other vegetative material to prevent soil loss. A silt fence must be maintained during winter.

Redirecting your downspout to keep rainwater off bare soil
Using flexible plastic pipe that directs water away from bare soil will prevent erosion.

If erosion controls are not maintained, the homeowner will receive a letter of non-compliance from our office. The homeowner will have five days to correct the problem. If erosion controls are not corrected, the homeowner may be charged for the cost of having our office install the necessary measures. A stop-work order may be issued, and legal action could be taken to bring the site into compliance.

To transfer a permit, the landowner or builder (the initial permit holder) and the new homeowner must complete a permit transfer form. A permit cannot be transferred if there are any outstanding balances or violations against the permit.

The homeowner should request a final completion inspection when the permanent vegetation is in place – 90% growth and 1 inch tall on every square foot of the disturbed area.

If the site remains permitted beyond the expiration date, renewal fees will be charged in three-month increments until the site has permanent vegetation.

In order to apply for a soil erosion permit you will need:

Electronic Signature Form
Site plan
Proof of ownership
- Documentation we accept:
  - Current Tax Bill
  - Recorded Warranty Deed
  - Recorded Land Contract
  - Buyers and Sellers Closing Statements (with both parties’ signatures)
  - Property Gateway Proof of Ownership