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Erosion & Sediment Control#

Erosion and sedimentation are natural processes, the intensities of which are increased by land-disturbing activities. Clearing and stripping of land can cause an increase in localized erosion rates, with subsequent deposition of sediments and damage to adjacent, downstream and leeward properties. Erosion can reduce or destroy the aesthetic and practical values of neighboring properties.

The City is committed to the enhancement and protection of existing development, streams, lakes, wetlands and rivers that may be impacted by sediment laden runoff and encourages builders to maintain the natural balance between sediment supply and transport.

It is also the City's policy to encourage water erosion control by leaving land undisturbed as long as possible (by project phasing) and using temporary and permanent erosion control Best Management Practices (BMPs).

Pre-construction: Development and Building Review#

Most land-disturbing activities are planned for with Building Services or the Development Review Center; as part of the planning process, all applicable projects are required to submit erosion and sediment control materials (Plan, Report, Escrow) in accordance with the Fort Collins Stormwater Criteria Manual adopted December 2018 with Ordinance 159, 2018. The Fort Collins Stormwater Criteria Manual, 2018 is a standalone document. 

The Erosion Control chapters of the Stormwater Criteria are as follows:

The Fort Collins Stormwater Criteria, dated 2011, is no longer regulatory but will be retained here for reference purposes and for those projects that were started under the previous criteria.

Construction: Inspections#

An initial inspection is required after acceptance of erosion and sediment control materials and before land disturbing activities can begin. As with all sites across Fort Collins, inspections will then continue until the site is fully stabilized. At that time, final inspections can be conducted and securities can be returned.

To request an inspection, please email erosion@fcgov.com with the type of inspection being requested, contact information, building permit number, project name, address and any other relevant information.


Did You Know?

Checking and sealing leaks in attics, basements and crawl spaces can improve your home's performance.

You can save approximately 50¢ per load by drying your laundry during off-peak hours. 

You can monitor your energy and water use with our online portals.