According to the EPA Fact sheet on Construction Site Runoff Control, “Sediment runoff rates from construction sites are typically ten to twenty times greater than those of agricultural lands, and one thousand to two thousand times greater than those of forest lands. During a short period of time, construction sites can contribute more sediment to streams than can be deposited naturally during several decades. The resulting situation, and the contribution of other pollutants from construction sites, can cause physical, chemical, and biological harm to our nation’s waters.”
Figure 1: Cause [Contractor flushes newly installed hydrant near an unprotected catch basin]
Figure 2: Effect [Sediment plumb in a nearby trout stream]
U of M building standards require temporary and permanent erosion and sediment control measures be incorporated into the design. The construction documents must identify specific controls and locations as well as contractor implementation and inspection responsibilities. Additionally, any storm water discharge from a construction site must be visibly free of sediment.
Sediment can be controlled through the use of silt fences, biologs, sediment traps, check dams, and sandbag barriers. Erosion can be prevented using existing vegetation, mulch, sod, and geotextiles. In addition, sites should be kept free of loose trash and debris.
Construction projects within an urbanized area boundary disturbing more than 3,000 sq ft of land area are requited to have a grading permit through the University of Minnesota Building Code Department. These projects have to meet the storm water requirements spelled out in the University of Minnesota Building Standards in order to obtain that permit. Construction projects disturbing more than 1 acre of land are also required to get an MPCA construction stormwater permit. Additional information for design professionals can be found on the Design and Construction Assistance portion of our website.
Construction Storm Water Runoff Control Best Management Practices (BMPs) and Associated Documents
4A.1 Regulatory Mechanism UMN (2023)
4C.1 Procedure for Site Plan Review BMP Summary Sheet (UMTC 4C.01 - 2021)
- Site Plan Review for Construction Activities that Require a UMN Grading Permit SOP (2020)
- Erosion and Sediment Control Plan Template (2023)
4E.1 Procedures for Site Inspections and Enforcement BMP Summary Sheet (UMTC 4E.01 - 2023)
4F.01 Education Program: Employee Construction Site Run-off Control BMP Summary Sheet (2023)
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