Erosion & Sediment Control

The sediment control program is a state-mandated program delegated to Harford County in the late 1970s. The purpose of sediment control is to minimize the amount of sediments leaving a construction site. There are several sediment control practices, including stabilized construction entrances, earth dikes, temporary swales, sediment traps, sediment basins, silt fences, and super silt fences.

All new development in Harford County that disturbs more than 5,000 square feet of area must address sediment control. Stormwater Management and the Harford Soil Conservation District are responsible for reviewing and approving sediment control design plans. As part of the sediment control program, an environmental inspector with the Bureau of Construction Management is required to inspect each site that requires installation of sediment control practices.

The inspector determines whether the practices are installed properly and in accordance with the approved sediment control design plans. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) reviews Harford County’s Sediment Control Program on a bi-ennial basis to determine if the county’s program is in compliance with the mandated requirement. This includes the county’s plan approval process and inspection and enforcement of the sediment control program.