Erosion and Sediment Control
Stormwater runoff from building and construction sites is a major contributor of sediment and other pollutants to the region’s waterways.
Erosion can be prevented by good planning and using the appropriate erosion, drainage and sediment controls.
It is important to develop an adequate Erosion and Sediment Control Plan, avoid works during wet periods and ensure manageable staging, to lessen the extent of soil exposure.
It is required by law and an offence under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 to unlawfully deposit soil or other contaminants in waters, a roadside gutter or stormwater drain.
It is also an offence to carry out earthwork that exposes the earth where soil could reasonably be expected to wash or otherwise move into waters, a roadside gutter or stormwater drainage, without taking all reasonable and practical measures available to prevent and avoid this.
Whether a builder or civil contractor, it is your responsibility to set up appropriate erosion, sediment and drainage controls, governance and contracts for your project.
You must also undertake all reasonable and practical steps to prevent sediment and sediment laden water from discharging off your site. This includes developing appropriate erosion and sediment control plans.
Council has an ongoing Erosion and Sediment Control Compliance Program aimed at local development sites, building sites and council projects in the construction phase of development.
The program has three phases, namely education, encouragement and enforcement. The following resources are available to assist:
Several helpful videos are also provided for those within the construction industry:
For further information, contact council's Development Planning and Engineering Program on 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or email council@mackay.qld.gov.au.
Design and construction requirements