Erosion & Sediment Control

What is Soil Erosion?

Soil erosion is the removal of soil by wind or water. This natural process can be accelerated by construction, agriculture or other land disturbing activities which leaves disturbed land exposed to the elements for long periods of time.

Without proper planning, sediments and other pollutants can wash or blow offsite even in the smallest wind or rain event. These pollutants will end up in the City of Rockford’s stormwater system which includes creeks, ditches, and underground piping. All these pollutants eventually end up in the Rock River. By allowing these pollutants to enter the river and other water bodies, not only are we hurting the economic impact of these water bodies, but also increasing the possibility of flooding and costs associated with cleaning these water courses.

To help reduce the impact of soil erosion the City of Rockford has requirements that must be followed on construction sites. The City enforces these requirements through plan reviews and site inspections.

Included below are tools and resources for construction site operators that will help aid compliance with the City of Rockford and Illinois EPA requirements.

Construction in Rockford

2021 Pre-Construction Presentation	Rockford Stormwater Ordinance
Stormwater Permitting Requirements

Erosion Control in Construction

ILR10 General Construction Permit	Erosion Control Brochure
Sample SWPPP	Concrete Waste Requirements
Illinois Urban Manual	IEPA Stormwater Requirements
IDOT Erosion Control Field Guide

The Good, Bad, and Ugly

Silt Fence	Check Dams
Inlet Protection	Temporary Seeding
Stabilized Construction Entrance	Street Sweeping