Erosion and sedimentation have detrimental effects to our local waterways. The deposition of sediment on these local waterways is detrimental to plant and animal habitat. Suspended sedimentation in waterways also blocks sunlight and reduces the amount of photosynthesis that plants can perform. To combat this, the State of Maryland introduced the first Erosion and Sediment Control Law in 1970. In 2000, Worcester County was delegated enforcement authority of the Maryland's Erosion and Sediment program. This requires Worcester County to administer a local program to require compliance with the Maryland Erosion and Sediment Control Law.
Frequently Asked Questions
When must someone obtain an Erosion and Sediment Control Approval?
When earth disturbance exceeds 5000 square feet or filling occurs over 100 cubic yards. Except for Agricultural land management practices, agricultural BMPs and construction of agricultural structures and clearing and grading activities that are subject exclusively to state approval and enforcement under state law and regulations
Any development activity that is immediately adjacent to tidal waters, tidal wetlands, non tidal wetlands, or waterways.
What is needed for approval?
When applying for Erosion and Sediment Control Approval, you must have a site plan completed and sediment controls shown as defined in the 2011 Standards and Specifications for Erosion and Sediment Control. The 2011 Standards and Specifications can be obtained here.
Where are approvals obtained?
Approvals for Erosion and Sediment Control are obtained through the Worcester Soil Conservation District, located at 301 Commerce Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863, (410) 632-5439.
What else is required?
Erosion and Sediment Control Plans are not valid in Worcester County unless accompanied by a permit obtained from the Environmental Programs Department, located in the Worcester County Government Center at 1 West Market Street, Room 1306, Snow Hill, MD 21863.
How do I schedule a pre-construction meeting or an Inspection?
To schedule a preconstruction meeting, please call (410) 632-1220. Follow the automated instructions to schedule an inspection and/or speak with applicable inspector.
For additional information, please refer to the Natural Resources Article of the Worcester County Code of Public Local Laws.
For Additional Information on Maryland's Erosion and Sediment Control Program Please visit Maryland Department of Environment's website.
Contact Information
Ryan Presock, Natural Resources Inspector, (410) 632-1220, ext. 1145