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<chapter num="01" heading="Erosion and Sediment Control" title_num="26" subtitle_num="17">
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated. Terms not defined below shall have the meanings given to them in the relevant statutes, or if not defined in statutes, the meanings attributed by common use. The terms “Administration”, “person”, “pollution”, “responsible personnel”, “waters of the State”, are defined in Environment Article, §4-104 or 5-101, Annotated Code of Maryland. The meanings for these specific terms are provided as a convenience, but persons affected by the Administration's regulations should be aware that these meanings are subject to amendment by the General Assembly.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Terms Defined.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>“Administration” means the Water Management Administration.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>“Agricultural land management practices” means those methods and procedures used in the cultivation of land in order to further crop and livestock production, and conservation of related soil and water resources. Logging and timber removal operations may not be considered a part of this definition.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>“Approval authority” means the soil conservation district, municipal corporation, specified agency, Commission, or the Administration that is authorized by or pursuant to Environment Article, §4-105, Annotated Code of Maryland, to review and approve erosion and sediment control plans for the given jurisdiction.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>“Clear” means any activity which removes the vegetative cover while leaving the root mat intact.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>“Commission” means the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(6)">
        <text>“Department” means the Department of the Environment.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(7)">
        <text>“Erosion” means the process by which the land surface is worn away by the action of wind, water, ice, or gravity.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(8)">
        <text>“Erosion and sediment control plan” means an erosion and sediment control strategy or plan designed to minimize erosion and prevent off-site sedimentation, in accordance with the requirements of the approval authority and the handbook “ 2011 Maryland Standards and Specifications for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control,” which is incorporated by reference in Regulation .11 of this chapter.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(9)">
        <text>“Erosion and Sediment Control Program” means any program administered by a State unit, county, municipality, or the Commission under an erosion and sediment control ordinance or regulations approved by the Administration, which provides for erosion and sediment control plan review, permit issuance, site inspection, and enforcement activity in accordance with the requirements of these regulations.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(10)">
        <text>“Federal project” means any project that requires an erosion and sediment control plan in accordance with Regulation .05 of this chapter undertaken by a federal unit .</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(11)">
        <text>“Federal unit” means any federal agency that intends to or does clear, grade, transport, or otherwise disturb the land or soil surface in the course of its activities.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(12)">
        <text>“Grade” means to cause the disturbance of the earth. This includes but is not limited to any excavating, filling, stockpiling of earth materials, grubbing, or root mat or top soil disturbance.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(13)">
        <text>“Grading unit” means the maximum contiguous area allowed to be graded at a given time.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(14)">
        <text>“Highly erodible soils” means those soils with a slope greater than 15 percent or those soils with a soil erodability factor, K, greater than 0.35 and with slopes greater than 5 percent.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(15)">
        <text>“Owner/developer” means a person undertaking, or for whose benefit, activities covered by the Sediment Control Subtitle, or regulations promulgated under it, are carried on. General contractors or subcontractors, or both, without a proprietary interest in a project are not included within this definition.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(16)">
        <text>“Person” includes the federal government, the State, any county, municipal corporation, or other political subdivision of the State, or any of their units, or an individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary, or representative of any kind, or any partnership, firm, association, public or private corporation, or any of their affiliates, or any other entity.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(17)">
        <text>“Pollution” means the contamination or other alteration of the physical, chemical, or biological properties of any waters of the State, including change in temperature, taste, color, turbidity, or odor of the waters, or the discharge or deposit of any organic matter, harmful organisms, liquid, gaseous, solid, radioactive, or other substance into any waters of the State that will render the waters harmful, detrimental, or injurious to:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Public health, safety or welfare;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Domestic, commercial, industrial, agricultural, recreational, or other legitimate beneficial uses; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Livestock, wild animals, birds, fish, or other aquatic life.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(18)">
        <text>“Professional architect” means an architect duly registered by the State to practice architecture in accordance with the provisions of Business Occupations and Professions Article, Title 3, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(19)">
        <text>“Professional engineer” means an engineer duly registered by the State to practice engineering in accordance with the provisions of Business Occupations and Professions Article, Title 14, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(20)">
        <text>“Professional forester” means a forester duly registered by the State to practice forestry in accordance with the provisions of Business Occupations and Professions Article, Title 7, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(21)">
        <text>“Professional landscape architect” means a landscape architect duly registered by the State to practice landscape architecture in accordance with the provisions of Business Occupations and Professions Article, Title 9, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(22)">
        <text>“Professional land surveyor” means a land surveyor duly registered by the State to practice land surveying in accordance with the provisions of Business Occupations and Professions Article, Title 15, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(23)">
        <text>“Responsible personnel” means any foreman, superintendent, or project engineer who is in charge of on-site clearing and grading operations or the implementation and maintenance of an erosion and sediment control plan.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(24)">
        <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of the Environment or designee.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(25)">
        <text>“Sediment” means soils or other surficial materials transported or deposited by the action of wind, water, ice, gravity, or artificial means.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(26)">
        <text>“Sediment Control Subtitle” means Environment Article, Title 4, Subtitle 1, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(27)">
        <text>“State project” means any project that requires an erosion and sediment control plan in accordance with Regulation .05 of this chapter undertaken by a State unit.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(28)">
        <text>“State unit” means any State agency that intends to or does clear, grade, transport, or otherwise disturb the land or soil surface in the course of its activities.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(29)">
        <text>“Training program” means an Administration approved educational program for training responsible personnel to:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Properly implement and maintain erosion and sediment controls associated with grading; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Better understand the necessity of minimizing the pollution of the waters of the State that may result from grading.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(30)">
        <text>“Waters of the State” includes:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Both surface and underground waters within the boundaries of the State subject to its jurisdiction, including that portion of the Atlantic Ocean within the boundaries of the State, the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, and all ponds, lakes, rivers, streams, storm drain systems, public ditches, tax ditches, and public drainage systems within the State, other than those designated and used to collect, convey, or dispose of sanitary sewage; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The flood plain of free-flowing waters determined by the Department on the basis of the 100-year flood frequency.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="General Provisions.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>The Administration shall be responsible for the implementation and supervision of the erosion and sediment control program established by the Sediment Control Subtitle. This responsibility includes but is not limited to:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Establishment of policies, procedures, standards, and criteria relating to erosion and sediment control;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The review and approval of:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>County erosion and sediment control ordinances;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Municipal erosion and sediment control ordinances;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>The Commission’s erosion and sediment control regulations;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Erosion and sediment control programs;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <text>Erosion and sediment control plans for State projects and federal projects;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(f)">
          <text>Other erosion and sediment control plans, as necessary; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(g)">
          <text>Training programs;</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Inspection and enforcement in accordance with this chapter; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Determinations on the delegation of enforcement authority in accordance with Regulation .03 of this chapter.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>The Administration shall establish matters of policy, procedures, standards, criteria, approvals, and enforcement related to the Sediment Control Subtitle. The practices adopted and used by the soil conservation districts, the Commission, the counties, the municipalities, and State units are to be consistent with the guidelines and regulations adopted by the Administration.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Review and Evaluation.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The Administration shall periodically conduct a comprehensive review and evaluation to ensure the acceptability of all erosion and sediment control programs operating under the Sediment Control Subtitle and this chapter.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>In conducting the review and evaluation of erosion and sediment control programs, the Administration will use the following guidelines for determining the acceptability of the program:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>An effective erosion and sediment control ordinance or an effective set of erosion and sediment control regulations, which has been approved by the Administration, is in effect;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The review and approval of erosion and sediment control plans in accordance with the “2011 Maryland Standards and Specification for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control”;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Approved erosion and sediment control plans that provide:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Effective erosion and sediment control strategies; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>The information necessary to enable the proper installation and maintenance of these strategies; and</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>In delegated jurisdictions, inspection and enforcement procedures that ensure:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Compliance with the approved erosion and sediment control plan; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Timely response to citizen complaints.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Upon completion of this review and evaluation, the Administration shall submit the findings of the review and evaluation to the appropriate authority.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>A building or grading permit may not be issued by a county or municipality prior to erosion and sediment control plan approval unless specifically exempted by the ordinance, the regulation, or this chapter.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Delegation of Enforcement Authority.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>A county, a municipality or the Commission may seek delegation of enforcement authority from the Secretary to enforce compliance with the provisions of the following:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>This chapter;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>An approved erosion control ordinance;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Approved erosion and sediment control regulations; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Approved erosion and sediment control plans.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Delegation.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The Secretary shall grant delegation of enforcement authority to a county, a municipality, or the Commission which seeks delegation and is found capable of enforcing compliance with the provisions of Regulation .09 of this chapter.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>A county, a municipality, or the Commission seeking or renewing delegation of enforcement authority shall submit a written request to the Secretary on or before October 1 immediately preceding the State fiscal year for which delegation or renewal of delegation is sought.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>The Secretary shall make a determination in writing regarding a delegation request on or before January 1 immediately preceding the State fiscal year for which delegation is sought.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>If delegation is granted, it is effective July 1 of that calendar year and for not more than 2 years, unless renewed by the Secretary.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>The Secretary may suspend delegation if a program falls below the standard of effectiveness established in Regulation .09 of this chapter. During a period of suspension, the Department shall enforce compliance in the jurisdiction.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinances.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Each county and municipality shall adopt an erosion and sediment control ordinance in compliance with the intent and requirements of the Sediment Control Subtitle and the “2011 Maryland Standards and Specifications for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control”. Within 6 months of the adoption of this Subtitle, counties and municipalities shall submit ordinances and amendments to the Administration for review. Counties and municipalities shall adopt an approved ordinance within 1 year of this Subtitle’s adoption. Municipalities may adopt the erosion and sediment control ordinance of their respective county.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>The Commission shall adopt erosion and sediment control regulations covering utility operations in Prince George’s and Montgomery counties that are in compliance with the intent and requirements of the Sediment Control Subtitle and the “2011 Maryland Standards and Specifications for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control”. Within 6 months of the adoption of this subtitle, the Commission shall develop erosion and sediment control regulations in consultation with and subject to the review and approval of the Administration, the Prince George’s Soil Conservation District, and the Montgomery Soil Conservation District as appropriate. The Commission shall adopt approved regulations within one year of this Subtitle’s adoption. The Commission’s erosion and sediment control regulations shall ensure that in addition to meeting the requirements of §C of this regulation, the following shall be included:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>An erosion and sediment control plan must be approved by the Commission before the issuance of a permit; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The Commission shall have the primary responsibility for inspection and enforcement of utility construction, if delegation of enforcement authority is granted to the Commission.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>In determining the acceptability of an erosion and sediment control ordinance or regulations, the Administration shall consider, but not limit itself to, the following:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Scope of activities requiring grading and building permits and erosion and sediment control plans;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Permit and plan requirements including application procedure, plan design requirements, and time limitations;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Procedures to ensure that a required erosion and sediment control plan is approved by the appropriate approval authority prior to the issuance of a building or grading permit;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Specific inspection and enforcement procedures and options available to ensure compliance with an approved erosion and sediment control plan, if the Administration has granted delegation of enforcement authority;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>Right of entry for inspection and enforcement activities associated with an approved erosion and sediment control plan; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(6)">
        <text>Stabilization requirements in accordance with the provisions of Regulation .07 of this chapter, which are to be binding regardless of whether an approved erosion and sediment control plan has been issued.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>After reviewing a county’s or municipality’s erosion and sediment control ordinance or amendments, or the Commission’s erosion and sediment control regulations or amendments, the Administration shall notify the county, municipality, or Commission in writing of the acceptability of the ordinance or the regulations.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Activities for Which Approved Erosion and Sediment Control Plans Are Required.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Any grading activity requires an erosion and sediment control plan approved by the appropriate approval authority, except for:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Agricultural land management practices and agricultural best management practices, including those regulated under COMAR 26.17.03; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Grading activities that disturb less than 5,000 square feet of land area and disturb less than 100 cubic yards of earth.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>A project that involves any combination of private lands, county lands, State lands, or federal lands, such as a utility right-of-way, requires the approval of the approval authority affiliated with the entity undertaking the activity or for whose benefit the activity is being undertaken.  Ownership of the land or lands upon which the activity is occurring is not to be the sole factor in determining the approval authority.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Any approval authority may make a written request to the Administration for a joint review of an erosion and sediment control plan.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Any activity pursuant to and in compliance with Environment Article, Title 15, Annotated Code of Maryland, is exempt from the grading unit restriction.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>Any activity pursuant to sanitary landfills and in compliance with Environment Article, §9-204, Annotated Code of Maryland, and COMAR 26.04.07.02B(27) is exempt from the grading unit restriction.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Training and Certification Program.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Certification of Responsible Personnel.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The Administration shall require certification of responsible personnel as established by the Sediment Control Subtitle and in accordance with this regulation.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Certification is obtained by completing an Administration-approved training program.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Certification is valid for 3 years and is automatically renewed unless the Administration notifies the certificate holder that additional training is required.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Interim Certification of Responsible Personnel.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>After July 1, 1983, responsible personnel may receive interim certification prior to the completion of a training program by submitting a request to the Administration.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Interim certification will be valid until the scheduled date of attendance at a training program.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Training Programs.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The Administration may approve training programs other than those developed by the Administration. Unless otherwise approved by the Administration, an acceptable training program shall include the following:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Ecological and resource values of the waters of the State;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The benefits of proper and effective erosion and sediment control implementation and maintenance;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>The purpose and provisions of State and local erosion and sediment control laws, ordinances, and regulations;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>A description of sediment as a pollutant;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <text>The process of:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Erosion;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Sediment transport; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Sediment deposition;</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(f)">
          <text>Proper implementation of erosion and sediment control;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(g)">
          <text>Recognition and correction of improperly implemented erosion and sediment controls;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(h)">
          <text>Proper maintenance of erosion and sediment controls; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(i)">
          <text>Responsibilities of supervisory and enforcement personnel.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>An instructor of a training program shall have a knowledge of the principles of:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Erosion;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Sediment transport;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Sediment deposition;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Erosion and sediment control technology;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <text>Erosion and sediment control implementation;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(f)">
          <text>Erosion and sediment control maintenance;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(g)">
          <text>Local government erosion and sediment control ordinances; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(h)">
          <text>The Sediment Control Subtitle and this chapter.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>An instructor of a training program shall submit the following information to the Administration:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of responsible personnel who complete a training program;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Card certification numbers issued to responsible personnel; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Employer’s name and address.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Responsible personnel who complete an Administration-approved training program receive a Certificate of Training card with a certification number.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Application for Approval of Erosion and Sediment Control Plans.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>When an approved erosion and sediment control plan is required, an applicant shall make a submittal to the approval authority in accordance with procedures established by the jurisdiction and this chapter, and shall be subject to any fees established under Environment Article, §4-103(c), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>At a minimum, a submittal must include:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>A letter of transmittal or application;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Name, address, and telephone number of:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The owner of the property where the grading is proposed;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The developer; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>The applicant;</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>A vicinity map indicating north arrow, scale, and other information necessary to easily locate the property;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>The location of natural resource areas and sensitive areas such as wetlands, floodplains, highly erodible soils, steep slopes, and any other areas required on a concept plan as described in COMAR 26.17.02;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>A general description of the predominant soil types on the site, as described by the appropriate soil survey information available through the soil conservation district from the USDA Natural Resources Soil Conservation Service;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(6)">
        <text>An erosion and sediment control plan including the following, unless otherwise noted in this chapter:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Limits of disturbance, including proposed grading units;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The existing and proposed topography;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>The proposed grading and earth disturbance including:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Surface area involved;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Volume of spoil material; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Volume of borrow material;</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Storm drainage provisions, including:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Velocities and quantities of flow at outfalls; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Site conditions around points of all surface water discharge from the site;</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <text>Erosion and sediment control provisions to minimize on-site erosion and prevent off-site sedimentation including:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Provisions to limit disturbance;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Details of grading practices including phasing of grading units;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Design details for non-structural and structural controls; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iv)">
            <text>Provisions to preserve top soil;</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(f)">
          <text>Details of temporary and permanent stabilization measures including:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>The following statement on the plan: “Following initial soil disturbance or redisturbance, permanent or temporary stabilization is required within three calendar days as to the surface of all perimeter controls, dikes, swales, ditches, perimeter slopes, and all slopes steeper than 3 horizontal to 1 vertical (3:1); and seven calendar days as to all other disturbed areas on the project site except for those areas under active grading.”;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Identification of areas requiring accelerated stabilization;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Maintenance requirements to ensure that stabilized areas continuously meet the requirements of the “2011 Maryland Standards and Specifications for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control”; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iv)">
            <text>Identification of interior areas of surface mines exempted from stabilization requirements to prevent contamination of the recoverable resource by the stabilization material;</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(g)">
          <text>Sequence of construction describing the relationship between the implementation and maintenance of erosion and sediment control practices, including permanent and temporary stabilization, grading units, and the various stages or phases of earth disturbance and construction. At a minimum, a sequence of construction is to include a schedule and time frame for the following activities:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Clearing and grubbing as necessary for the installation of perimeter controls;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Construction and stabilization of perimeter controls;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Remaining clearing and grubbing within installed perimeter controls;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iv)">
            <text>Road grading;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(v)">
            <text>Grading for the remainder of the site;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(vi)">
            <text>Utility installation and connections to existing structures;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(vii)">
            <text>Final grading, landscaping, and stabilization; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(viii)">
            <text>Removal of controls and stabilization of resulting disturbances;</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(h)">
          <text>A statement placed on the plan indicating the owner/developer shall notify the appropriate enforcement authority at the following stages of construction:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Prior to the start of earth disturbance;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Upon completion of the installation of perimeter erosion and sediment controls, but before proceeding with any other earth disturbance or grading; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Prior to the start of another phase of construction or opening of another grading unit; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iv)">
            <text>Prior to the removal of sediment controls; and</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(i)">
          <text>An Owner/Developer Certification stating:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>All clearing, grading, construction, and development will be done pursuant to this plan; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Responsible personnel involved in the construction project will have a Certificate of Training before beginning the project.  This Certificate of Training for responsible personnel requirement may be waived by the approval authority on any project involving four or fewer residential units; and</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(7)">
        <text>Any additional information or data deemed appropriate by the approval authority.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>The approval authority may require that erosion and sediment control plans receive certification by a professional engineer, land surveyor, landscape architect, architect, or forester (for a forest harvest operation only) registered in the State that they have been designed in accordance with the appropriate approved erosion and sediment control ordinance or regulation, standards, and criteria.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Standard Erosion and Sediment Control Plans.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>An approval authority may adopt a standard erosion and sediment control plan for minor grading, earth disturbance, and construction activities, such as a single-family residence, small commercial and other similar building sites, minor maintenance grading, and minor utility construction.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>A standard erosion and sediment control plan must be consistent with the appropriate county or municipal erosion and sediment control ordinance, the Commission’s erosion and sediment control regulations, and this chapter.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>The Administration shall review and approve a standard plan prior to adoption.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>The following is to be considered during the Administration’s review and approval:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Volume of grading allowed;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Disturbed surface area allowed;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Staging of the clearing and grading operation;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Depth or height of cut and fill allowed;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <text>Maximum degree of steepness of any existing slopes;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(f)">
          <text>Maximum degree of steepness of final graded slopes;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(g)">
          <text>Proposed manner of handling storm water runoff;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(h)">
          <text>Proposed manner and timing of temporary and permanent stabilization;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(i)">
          <text>Proposed erosion and sediment control principles, methods, and practices to be employed; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(j)">
          <text>Proposed applications and restricted use of the standard plan, including restrictions on its use in developing subdivisions or contiguous or adjacent areas.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>The Administration shall conduct the review of the standard plan in a timely manner and notify the approval authority in writing of the Administration’s findings.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Approval or Denial of Erosion and Sediment Control Plans.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Review of Plans.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The approval authority shall review and approve an erosion and sediment control plan in accordance with the criteria contained in the “2011 Maryland Standards and Specifications for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control.”</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The approval authority shall assess the adequacy of the proposed erosion and sediment control measures to minimize erosion and keep sediment on site.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>When appropriate, an on-site evaluation shall be conducted as part of the review process in order to provide proper consideration of existing conditions and proposed control measures.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>The approval authority reserves the right to deny approval or impose conditions necessary to prevent:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>A nuisance or dangerous condition;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Sediment pollution; or</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Adverse impacts to public safety and welfare.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>The approval authority may withhold approval when it determines that:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>An owner/developer has not complied with the provisions of an outstanding order; or</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>There is a violation of the terms of an existing:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Grading permit;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Building permit; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Erosion and sediment control plan or related approval, permit, or license.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>In jurisdictions that are not delegated, the approval authority shall forward one copy of each approved plan to the Administration upon plan approval.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>For plans approved by the Administration:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Approved plans will be stamped approved;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The Administration shall send a letter of approval to the owner/developer; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>A copy of the approved plan will be kept by the Administration.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="F.">
      <text>Expiration of Approved Erosion and Sediment Control Plans.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Approved erosion and sediment control plans remain valid for 3 years from the date of approval, except surface mines and landfill plans, which remain valid for 5 years from the date of approval.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Erosion and sediment control plan approvals may be extended or renewed by the approval authority.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="G.">
      <text>Grandfathering of approved plans.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>This chapter applies to all projects that do not have final approval for erosion and sediment control plans by January 9, 2013.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>A plan that has received final approval by January 9, 2013 may be reapproved under its existing conditions if grading activities have begun on the site by January 9, 2015, with the exception of stabilization requirements.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Stabilization practices on all projects must be in compliance with the requirements of this chapter by January 9, 2013, regardless of when an erosion and sediment control plan was approved.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Inspection and Enforcement.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>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.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>When the Administration has delegated enforcement authority to a county, a municipality, or the Commission, the county, municipality or Commission shall have the primary responsibility for inspection and enforcement as designated by an approved erosion and sediment control ordinance or erosion and sediment control regulations.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>An approved erosion and sediment control plan for an active site is to be on-site and available to the appropriate enforcement authority and the Administration.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>The appropriate enforcement authority shall inspect sites with an approved erosion and sediment control plan for compliance with the approved plan.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>When conducting an inspection, the appropriate enforcement authority shall:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Ensure that an approved erosion and sediment control plan and permits are on the site as required;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Conduct a complete inspection of the site unless otherwise indicated;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Prepare a written inspection report that includes:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The date and location of this site inspection;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Whether the approved plan has been properly implemented and maintained;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Practice deficiencies or erosion and sediment control plan deficiencies;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>If a violation exists, the type of enforcement action taken; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <text>If applicable, a description of minor or major modifications as described in this regulation; and</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Notify the on-site personnel and the owner/developer in writing when violations are observed, describing the:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Nature of the violation;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Required corrective action; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Time period in which to have the violation corrected.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="F.">
      <text>Complaints.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The appropriate enforcement authority shall accept and investigate complaints regarding erosion and sediment control concerns from any interested party and:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Conduct an initial investigation within 3 working days of receipt of the complaint;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Notify the complainant of the initial investigation and findings within 7 days of receipt of the complaint; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Take appropriate action when violations are discovered during the course of the complaint investigation.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The Administration may investigate complaints received and take appropriate action or refer complaints received to the appropriate enforcement authority.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>The Administration shall notify the appropriate enforcement authority in a timely manner when investigating a complaint in a delegated jurisdiction.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="G.">
      <text>A county, a municipality, or the Commission may request enforcement assistance from the Administration on any site.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="H.">
      <text>Plan Modifications.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Modifications to an approved erosion and sediment control plan may be requested by the owner/developer or required by the appropriate approval or enforcement authority.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Modifications must be made in accordance with the erosion and sediment control criteria contained in the “2011 Maryland Standards and Specifications for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control” and the criteria for major and minor modifications.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Major Modifications.</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Major modifications include revisions to sediment control practices involving concentrated flow or impoundments, such as a sediment basin or trap. Major modifications also include significant changes to the sequence of construction or to the phasing of grading units.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Major modifications must be approved by the approval authority prior to implementation.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Minor Modifications</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The approval authority may, in conjunction with the appropriate enforcement authority, develop a list of minor modifications.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The Administration shall review and approve all minor modification lists.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>The appropriate enforcement authority may allow the implementation of minor modifications as field revisions.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>The appropriate enforcement authority shall, in writing, approve field revisions prior to their implementation.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="I.">
      <text>Enforcement.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The appropriate enforcement authority shall, through the authority of an erosion and sediment control ordinance or regulations, this chapter, and the Sediment Control Subtitle, use enforcement action when erosion and sediment control violations occur.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Enforcement actions may include, but are not limited to:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Issuance of a corrective action order;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Issuance of a stop work order, the extent of which is determined by the appropriate enforcement authority;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Issuance of a penalty or fine as allowed; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Referral for legal action.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>In addition to any other sanctions, a person in violation of any provision of the Sediment Control Subtitle or this chapter is subject to civil action or criminal prosecution as deemed necessary.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Any step in the enforcement process may be taken at any time, depending upon the severity of the violation.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>The appropriate enforcement authority shall stop work on a site where grading is occurring without a required erosion and sediment control plan.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="J.">
      <text>Suspension of Approval.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The approval authority may suspend approval of an erosion and sediment control plan.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>When an erosion and sediment control plan is suspended:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Stabilization is required of all disturbed areas on the project site; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Grading, building, and other permits related to the project will also be suspended.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Responsibility of Applicant.">
    <text>The issuance of an approval by the approval authority does not relieve the applicant of the continuing responsibility to effectively abate sediment pollution and comply with all other applicable local and State laws.</text>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Sediment Control Design Standards and Specifications.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>The handbook titled “2011 Maryland Standards and Specifications for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control” as amended by Supplement 1 is hereby incorporated by reference by the Administration, and shall serve as the official guide for erosion and sediment control principles, methods, and practices.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Notwithstanding any other requirement in this chapter, the Administration may require the use of any standard and specification or best management practice it deems warranted to address an erosion and sediment control violation.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <annotations>
    <annotation type="Authority">Environment Article, §4-101, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: April 4, 1972</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective December 5, 1983 (10:24 Md. R. 2185)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01 and .06 amended effective July 16, 1984 (11:14 Md. R. 1248)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.04, .06—.08, and .10 amended effective December 17, 1984 (11:25 Md. R. 2130)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .02-1—.10 recodified to Regulations .03—.11</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07D-1—F recodified to Regulation .08E—G, and Regulation .08A-1—D recodified to Regulation .09B—E</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 08.05.01 to COMAR 26.09.01</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended effective January 18, 1993 (20:1 Md. R. 28); September 25, 1995 (22:19 Md. R. 1474)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02C amended effective January 18, 1993 (20:1 Md. R. 28); September 25, 1995 (22:19 Md. R. 1474)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05A amended effective March 28, 1994 (21:6 Md. R. 468)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07B amended effective January 18, 1993 (20:1 Md. R. 28); September 25, 1995 (22:19 Md. R. 1474</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08A amended effective January 18, 1993 (20:1 Md. R. 28); September 25, 1995 (22:19 Md. R. 1474)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08F amended effective September 25, 1995 (22:19 Md. R. 1474)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09D amended effective January 18, 1993 (20:1 Md. R. 28); September 25, 1995 (22:19 Md. R. 1474)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11 amended effective January 18, 1993 (20:1 Md. R. 28); September 25, 1995 (22:19 Md. R. 1474)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 26.09.01 to COMAR 26.17.01, June 1996</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective February 6, 2012 (39:2 Md. R. 142)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended effective May 8, 2017 (44:9 Md. R. 438)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08F amended effective May 8, 2017 (44:9 Md. R. 438)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09D amended effective May 8, 2017 (44:9 Md. R. 438)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11A amended effective May 8, 2017 (44:9 Md. R. 438)</annotation>
  </annotations>
</chapter>