Sediment control inspections are essential for protecting Maryland’s waterways and ensuring construction projects follow state regulations. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you need to know:

• What It Is: Sediment control prevents soil erosion and water pollution during construction.
• Why It Matters: Inspections ensure compliance with Maryland’s erosion and sediment control standards, protecting the environment and avoiding penalties.
• Key Requirements:
  • Grading permits are mandatory for projects disturbing over 5,000 sq. ft. or moving more than 100 cubic yards of soil.
  • Inspections must occur every two weeks for active sites.
  • Approved erosion and sediment control plans must always be available on-site.
• Common Problems: Improper installation, poor maintenance, and plan deviations often lead to violations.
• Enforcement: Counties issue correction notices, stop-work orders, and fines for non-compliance.

Staying compliant means conducting regular inspections, maintaining sediment control measures, and addressing issues promptly. When in doubt, professional services like Pro Landscapes MD can help ensure projects meet Maryland’s strict standards.

Mastering CEPSCI Inspections | The Art of Erosion and Sediment Control Inspections

Maryland Regulations and Inspection Requirements

Maryland places a strong emphasis on sediment control inspections to ensure compliance with environmental standards. The state’s regulatory framework clearly outlines the roles and responsibilities for inspections, creating a structured approach to managing soil erosion and sediment control.

Key Maryland Regulations

The Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 26.17.01.09 sets the foundation for inspection and enforcement activities. This regulation designates the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) as the primary authority overseeing soil erosion and sediment control across the state.

"The Administration shall be responsible for the inspection and enforcement of all grading that requires an approved erosion and sediment control plan as designated within this chapter." – Md. Code Regs. 26.17.01.09^[1]

However, Maryland employs a delegated authority system, allowing local jurisdictions to take on inspection and enforcement duties. This localized approach ensures that state standards are upheld while enabling tailored oversight at the county level^[1].

For instance, Baltimore County has implemented a third-party inspection program to address the increasing volume of permit applications. Inspectors in this program must meet specific qualifications, including completing the county’s SEC Inspection Training and earning certification from MDE through the Responsible Personnel Training for Erosion and Sediment Control course^[2].

Legal backing for these inspections comes from various codes, such as Baltimore County Code, Section 3-2-1103, the Baltimore County Building Code, and the 2015 International Building Code, Section 110.4. These codes provide the framework for third-party inspections in the county^[2].

Frederick County serves as another example of delegated authority, operating under its National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. The county’s Department of Permits and Inspections oversees all land-disturbing activities that require erosion and sediment control plans, ensuring compliance with state and local regulations^[4].

These regulatory measures establish a clear structure for inspection schedules and responsibilities.

Inspection Schedules and Responsibilities

Maryland enforces a strict inspection schedule and documentation process to maintain compliance. Active construction sites must be inspected every two weeks, with written reports documenting compliance, deficiencies, and corrective actions^[4].

"Every active site having a designed erosion and sediment control plan should be inspected for compliance with the plan on average once every 2 weeks." – Frederick County, Maryland Code of Ordinances § 1-10-36^[4]

A critical requirement is that an approved erosion and sediment control plan must always be available on-site for review by enforcement authorities^[1][4]. The owner or developer is responsible for ensuring the plan is accessible throughout construction activities.

Inspections must adhere to the standards outlined in the Maryland Standards and Specifications for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control in effect at the time of the permit application^[2]. This ensures uniformity across inspection procedures, regardless of the inspecting authority.

COMAR 26.17.01.09 also mandates detailed inspection reports. These reports must include:

• The date and location of the inspection
• Confirmation of whether the approved plan is being implemented and maintained
• Identification of any deficiencies in practices or the plan itself
• Documentation of enforcement actions taken for violations
• Descriptions of any modifications, whether minor or major^[1]

If violations are identified, inspectors are required to notify both on-site personnel and the owner or developer in writing. The notification must detail the violation, the corrective actions needed, and the timeframe for compliance^[1]. This process ensures clear communication and accountability.

In Baltimore County’s third-party inspection program, additional administrative steps are required. Before a building permit is issued, applicants must notify the Chief Building Inspector with specific details, including the names of the owner and applicant, the permit number, the qualified third-party inspector or firm, and the location of the work to be inspected^[2].

How to Conduct a Sediment Control Inspection

Carrying out a sediment control inspection involves detailed preparation, a methodical on-site evaluation, and precise documentation. Maryland’s process is guided by state standards to ensure compliance and protect the environment.

Pre-Inspection Preparation

Start by thoroughly reviewing the approved sediment control plan and understanding the construction sequence. This helps you focus on the specific control measures relevant to the current phase of the project^[2][5].

Before the pre-construction meeting, mark the approved disturbance boundaries on-site. This step establishes clear limits for construction activities and minimizes the risk of unauthorized soil disturbance^[5].

Gather all necessary tools before heading to the site. Your toolkit should include measuring devices, a camera for documentation, sample containers (if water testing is needed), and copies of the approved plans. Check recent rainfall data to identify areas that may be more prone to erosion or runoff issues.

Maryland regulations mandate an on-site pre-construction meeting with the assigned inspector before any work begins. This includes activities like demolition, clearing, grading, or sediment control installation^[5]. The meeting ensures everyone understands the project requirements and establishes clear communication.

Once you’ve completed these steps, you’re ready to conduct the on-site inspection.

On-Site Inspection Steps

When you arrive on-site, begin by verifying the project details. Confirm that the site’s name, address, and location match the approved plan^[6]. Also, check that the stormwater permits are up to date^[6].

Conduct a visual assessment of the site for any signs of pollution or illegal discharges. Look for discolored water, unusual odors, or evidence of materials entering nearby waterways. Document any issues immediately^[6].

Inspect all sediment and erosion control measures to ensure they’ve been installed correctly and are being maintained. For instance, check sediment fences to confirm they are securely anchored and free of accumulated debris that could affect their performance^[6].

Examine retention and detention ponds to ensure they are functioning properly. These structures should have appropriate water levels, clear outfall areas, and no excessive sediment buildup^[6].

Check catch basins, filters, and pipe networks for blockages or sediment accumulation to ensure water is flowing as intended. Inspect vegetative buffers near streams and discharge points to verify they are filtering runoff effectively^[6].

Specialized stormwater treatment devices, like oil-water separators, should also be inspected to confirm they are working as designed. These systems require regular maintenance to remain effective^[6].

Pay attention to soil stockpiles. They should be covered with tarps or similar materials, and drainage controls must be in place to prevent water pooling^[7].

Lastly, review the site’s employee training programs. Confirm that workers have been trained on sediment control practices and understand their responsibilities in managing stormwater and preventing pollution^[6].

Recording and Reporting Results

After the inspection, proper documentation is critical to show compliance with Maryland’s sediment control standards. Use written reports and photos to create a comprehensive record of your findings^[8].

An inspection report should include the following:

Use photos and detailed notes to document site conditions and track progress over time^[7].

In Baltimore County’s third-party inspection program, results must be submitted via fax or email within 24 hours of the inspection’s completion. Inspectors are required to use official forms provided by the building authority for reporting^[2].

If violations are found, document them thoroughly. Provide written communication to on-site personnel and the property owner or developer, outlining the issues, required corrective actions, and deadlines for compliance.

Store all inspection records in a dedicated folder for easy access during regulatory reviews. This organized approach ensures that all documentation is readily available and helps track the project’s compliance history over time^[7].

Common Problems and Enforcement Actions

After thorough on-site inspections, certain compliance issues consistently arise, leading to enforcement actions. Despite efforts to adhere to regulations, violations continue to surface across Maryland construction sites. Familiarity with these recurring problems and the enforcement process can help property owners and contractors avoid penalties and maintain compliance.

Frequent Compliance Problems

One of the most common issues inspectors encounter is improper installation of erosion and sediment control measures. Examples include sediment fences that aren’t anchored securely, silt socks placed incorrectly, and inlet protections that are poorly sealed.

Another frequent problem is poor maintenance, which diminishes the effectiveness of control measures. This includes sediment buildup, unrepaired erosion control blankets, and vegetation that fails due to neglect.

Plan deviations are another major concern. Contractors sometimes make unauthorized changes, such as expanding disturbance areas or altering drainage patterns, without updating approved plans. These changes can compromise the effectiveness of erosion and sediment controls.

Lastly, inadequate stabilization of disturbed areas poses a serious risk. Unstabilized soil – like uncovered stockpiles or bare graded areas left exposed for too long – can lead to significant erosion.

In Baltimore County, inspectors specifically ensure compliance with the Maryland Standards and Specifications for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control ^[2]. When violations persist, counties enforce corrective measures to address these issues.

Required Corrections and Deadlines

When violations are identified, counties mandate swift corrective actions, following a structured process with clear timelines.

Correction notices are issued first, outlining the violations and setting deadlines for remediation. In Baltimore County, these notices detail the specific issues and the timeframe for corrections ^[2].

If violations pose an immediate environmental risk or correction notices are ignored, stop-work orders are issued. These orders halt all construction activity until the issues are resolved and approved by the Department. Baltimore County enforces strict timelines for these corrections ^[2].

Calvert County follows a similar protocol. Written notices of noncompliance are sent to the permittee and their surety, specifying the necessary corrective actions and deadlines. If no action is taken within the given timeframe, a stop-work order is issued. Failing to begin and diligently pursue corrections within five days of receiving the notice results in the permittee being declared in default ^[9].

These enforcement measures highlight the ongoing challenges of achieving compliance, with numerous violations across Maryland still requiring attention and resolution.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

When violations persist despite mandated corrections, penalties escalate. Maryland counties employ progressive enforcement strategies to address repeated violations.

Fines and monetary penalties are the primary financial deterrents. Counties impose increasing fines and stop-work orders for repeat offenses, with penalties sometimes exceeding $80,000.

At the state level, enforcement actions have decreased significantly. In 2020, the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) took only four enforcement actions for erosion and sediment control violations, a sharp decline from 96 actions in 2010. The MDE’s Water and Science Administration collected $530,000 in penalties in 2020, down from $1 million in 2019 ^[11].

Program oversight is conducted through bi-annual reviews of county erosion and sediment control programs by the MDE, which also grants enforcement authority. Jay G. Sakai, director of MDE’s Water Management Administration, praised Montgomery County‘s efforts:

"A review of active construction sites in Montgomery County found erosion and sediment controls in good condition. Additionally, documentation of problems and routine enforcement by the County inspection staff was found to be very effective in gaining compliance with the approved erosion and sediment control plans. The County’s inspection staff should be commended for their hard work and dedication." ^[12]

Environmental advocates also emphasize the importance of consistent enforcement. Blue Water Baltimore has stated:

"Strong, enforceable Erosion and Sediment Control regulations level the playing field, and are in the best interest of everyone involved." ^[10]

For repeat violations, penalties become more severe. These can include project shutdowns, permit revocation, and even legal action. Counties also maintain records of violations, which can impact future permitting decisions and bonding requirements for contractors with poor compliance histories.

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Maintenance Requirements and Best Practices

Keeping sediment control measures in good shape is key to handling challenges from weather, construction activities, and natural wear and tear ^[13]. Regular inspections and ongoing maintenance are essential to ensure these systems remain effective and compliant ^[13].

Regular Maintenance Tips

Set up a consistent inspection routine, especially after storm events. Storms can damage silt fences, shift straw wattles, and lead to sediment buildup around inlet protections ^[13]. Post-storm checks help catch and fix issues early, avoiding bigger compliance headaches.

Clear sediment buildup quickly by removing debris from inlet protection devices and dredging sediment ponds when needed. If sediment accumulates unchecked, it reduces the system’s capacity and increases the risk of failure during future storms ^[14]. Pay attention to outfall controls, like vegetative buffers, to ensure they continue working as intended.

Fix breaches or displaced controls immediately. Woods Environmental Services highlights the importance of staying proactive:

"Effective erosion and sediment control requires ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure that BMPs are performing as intended and adapting to evolving site conditions." ^[15]

Keep sediment traps and basins in their original dimensions and replace worn-out materials before they fail. As sediment builds up, these structures lose their effectiveness and may need periodic cleanouts to restore capacity ^[16]. Materials like erosion control blankets and geotextiles can degrade over time, so replace them as needed to maintain their protective role ^[13]. Storing spare materials on-site ensures quick fixes when problems arise.

Document all maintenance efforts with photos and detailed records. This serves as proof of compliance, tracks the performance of control measures, and supports permit renewals ^[15]. Having accurate records also makes inspections smoother and more efficient.

By following these practices, you not only ensure functionality but also gain key advantages for your project.

Benefits of Regular Maintenance

Consistent maintenance helps avoid small problems turning into major violations that could lead to penalties or enforcement actions. Properly maintained sediment control systems operate at peak performance, reducing the risk of environmental harm and regulatory trouble.

Keeps projects moving by preventing costly delays like stop-work orders. Proactive maintenance ensures schedules stay on track and builds trust with regulatory agencies.

Saves money in the long run by extending the life of sediment control systems. Regular cleaning and minor repairs are far cheaper than replacing an entire failed system. It also minimizes the need for emergency repairs during severe weather.

Protects the environment, which is a critical outcome of proper upkeep. Well-functioning sediment controls safeguard nearby waterways, preserve soil quality, and protect surrounding ecosystems. These efforts align with Maryland’s environmental goals and enhance the reputation of contractors.

Simplifies regulatory compliance through consistent upkeep. When maintenance is routine, inspections uncover fewer issues, making the overall process smoother and more predictable.

Professional Services and Local Support

When routine maintenance isn’t enough to manage drainage issues and erosion risks, expert help becomes essential. In Maryland, navigating the state’s sediment control requirements can be challenging, particularly when drainage problems lead to erosion and sediment runoff. For property owners, professional assistance is often the best way to tackle water management challenges while staying compliant with state regulations.

Pro Landscapes MD‘s Compliance Services

Pro Landscapes MD offers customized drainage solutions designed to help residential and commercial properties meet Maryland’s sediment control standards. Their focus is on managing water effectively and stabilizing sites to prevent erosion.

Their services include a variety of drainage solutions, such as French drains, berms, swales, box/pipe drains, regrading, and sump pump installations. Each project is tailored to ensure compliance with state regulations, addressing water flow and erosion issues.

Pro Landscapes MD specializes in resolving drainage concerns that could lead to compliance violations. By addressing issues like water buildup, flooding, and erosion, they help property owners avoid costly penalties. Their expertise extends to sustainable stormwater management, demonstrated by projects like riverbed and rain garden installations in areas such as Washington, DC, and Columbia, MD. These projects highlight their ability to create environmentally conscious drainage systems that align with regulatory standards.

A key aspect of their approach is the use of eco-friendly and sustainable solutions. By incorporating environmental pavers and designing outdoor spaces with sustainability in mind, they help property owners not only meet compliance requirements but also contribute to long-term environmental health. With their deep understanding of Maryland’s regulatory landscape, Pro Landscapes MD ensures that their solutions are both effective and compliant. For property owners dealing with drainage challenges, scheduling a site visit and requesting a free proposal is a practical first step toward remediation.

Service Areas in Maryland

Local expertise is critical, and Pro Landscapes MD’s wide service network is well-equipped to handle the sediment control needs of various regions. They serve key counties across Maryland, including Howard, Montgomery, Carroll, Frederick, Prince George’s, and Baltimore. Their coverage spans major cities and towns like Annapolis, Baltimore, Bethesda, Bowie, Columbia, Ellicott City, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Silver Spring, and Towson, as well as surrounding suburban and rural areas.

This extensive reach allows Pro Landscapes MD to address the unique drainage and compliance challenges of different regions. Their familiarity with local regulations and conditions enables them to provide effective solutions quickly, helping property owners meet sediment control requirements with minimal delays.

Conclusion

Sediment control inspections play a key role in protecting Maryland’s water quality while ensuring construction projects follow the rules ^[3]. By catching issues early, these inspections offer practical solutions for sediment and erosion control challenges, helping projects stay compliant with local codes.

For homeowners and property managers, staying ahead of potential problems means routinely inspecting, fixing, and documenting sediment control measures. Ignoring these responsibilities can lead to penalties ^[2], but more importantly, it jeopardizes the health of local waterways. Many areas, like Baltimore County, depend on third-party inspectors to oversee sediment and erosion control on active construction sites ^[2]. For instance, in Baltimore County, any project disturbing over 5,000 square feet of land or moving more than 100 cubic yards of soil must secure a grading permit ^[2]. Knowing these local requirements is crucial for staying on the right side of the law.

Sometimes, addressing sediment and drainage issues requires a professional touch. When challenges arise or navigating Maryland’s complex regulations feels overwhelming, Pro Landscapes MD offers expert solutions. Their services, including French drains and stormwater management systems, tackle sediment control problems at their root while ensuring compliance with regulations. This kind of specialized support helps keep projects on track and in line with the law.

Taking preventative steps is always more cost-effective than dealing with violations after the fact. Routine maintenance, regular inspections, and professional assistance not only protect your property but also help safeguard Maryland’s waterways for future generations.

FAQs

What are some common mistakes that can result in sediment control violations during construction projects in Maryland?

Common Mistakes Leading to Sediment Control Violations in Maryland

Sediment control violations in Maryland often stem from a few avoidable mistakes. One major issue is the improper setup of erosion and sediment control measures. For example, silt fences or sediment basins might not be installed correctly, reducing their effectiveness. Another frequent problem is leaving exposed soil unstabilized or failing to manage runoff properly, which can lead to sediment pollution.

Another common misstep is ignoring the sediment control plan approved by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). This plan outlines the necessary steps to manage sediment and erosion, and failing to follow it can result in serious violations. Skipping regular inspections or neglecting maintenance of sediment control systems further increases the chances of sediment discharging into nearby waterways.

Staying compliant with state regulations and sticking to proper sediment control practices is key to avoiding these issues.

What is the process for sediment control inspections in Maryland, and how does the delegated authority system work?

In Maryland, sediment control inspections operate under a delegated authority system. This means local governments are given the responsibility to manage and enforce erosion and sediment control programs in their areas. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) oversees this system, ensuring that construction projects follow regulations designed to prevent sediment runoff from polluting waterways.

Local jurisdictions have the flexibility to implement stricter rules based on their unique environmental needs. For instance, counties like Baltimore and Worcester have developed robust inspection processes, which include allowing developers to collaborate with third-party inspectors. This localized approach not only addresses specific regional challenges but also upholds state standards, providing stronger protection for Maryland’s natural resources.

How can construction site managers stay compliant with Maryland’s sediment control regulations?

To comply with Maryland’s sediment control regulations, construction site managers need to take a few crucial steps. First, they must develop a thorough erosion and sediment control (ESC) plan that aligns with the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 26.17.01. If the project disturbs more than 5,000 square feet of land or involves moving over 100 cubic yards of soil, this plan must receive approval from the local jurisdiction.

Consistent site inspections are another vital part of the process. Managers should regularly check that all sediment control measures are working as intended, keeping detailed records of inspections and maintenance activities. Adjustments should be made as necessary to account for changing weather or site conditions. By staying vigilant and organized, site managers can help reduce sediment pollution while meeting the state’s regulatory requirements.

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