Sediments are the most common pollutant impairing the quality of our local watersheds. Though sediment is a critical part of our environment, development activities alter the way by which sediment interacts within our watersheds. Removal of ground cover and grading operations allow unnaturally large amounts of sediment to enter our storm water conveyance system, thus clogging our creeks, rivers, lakes, and lagoons. Excess sedimentation of our waterbodies creates many significant environmental challenges, including: flooding hazards, riparian habitat degradation, pollutant transport, and stagnant water.

State Program

To control the amount of sediment entering our watersheds through construction activities, the State Water Resources Control Board mandates all sites, greater than one acre, obtain a State National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit for Construction Activities. These guidelines mandate the owner/operator/developer obtain a permit or a Notice of Intent, through the State, before proceeding with grading activities. Subsequently, the applicant is required to develop and implement a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan, which includes the implementation of erosion and sediment control Best Management Practices (BMPs), water quality monitoring, employee training, and self-inspections. [Copy of the State NPDES Permit for Construction Activities]. Inspectors for the Regional Water Quality Control Boards have and will conduct site visits to ensure compliance with the Permit requirements.

Local Program

As a component of Municipal Storm Water Permit Order 2001-01, required by the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board, the City of Vista inspects and enforces the compliance of all construction sites with State and local erosion control regulations. Sediment and erosion control BMPs are required on all sites, regardless of size or time of the year. [Copy of the City of Vista Storm Water Standards Manual]. Information about the Cities requirements are included within Section F and G of the manual.

For additional information about sediment and erosion control BMPs, visit California BMP Handboooks resource.

General Construction BMP reference guide, produced by the North San Diego County Cities
general contruction BMP brochure produced by the North San Diego County Cities.

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