In the Capital Regional District (CRD), managing a commercial construction site requires strict adherence to environmental protocols. Erosion and Sediment Control (ESC) is the practice of preventing sediment-laden water from leaving a project site and entering municipal storm drains or local waterways. For any commercial development or civil project, failing to meet these standards can result in stop work orders and daily fines that can add cost and delay to projects.
Why ESC is a Priority in our Region
Greater Victoria is known for significant rainfall events. Our regional stormwater systems connect directly to waterways that support salmon, trout, and other aquatic life. Sediment in water bodies can clog fish gills, smother spawning areas, and interfere with the ability of fish to navigate.
Because of these environmental risks, effective ESC practices are required for any development or construction project in the region that disturbs land or alters drainage patterns. Implementing these measures safeguards aquatic life while preventing the costs associated with site cleanup and project delays. Under the Federal Fisheries Act, the discharge of any deleterious substance into fish-bearing waters is a serious offense that can lead to federal prosecution, making local compliance a baseline requirement for risk management.
1. The Requirement for a Qualified Professional
On most commercial sites, the municipality will require a formal ESC Plan. This document is a technical requirement for the permitting process. Effective management begins at the construction planning stage where the owner or developer is responsible for reviewing site-specific conditions.
The plan outlines exactly how the site will be managed throughout the different phases of construction. It includes details on silt fencing, catch basin protection, as well as other requirements. Following this plan is a legal requirement of the permit, and the contractor must ensure compliance with all applicable regional bylaws throughout the duration of the project.
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2. Physical Controls: Source and Path Management
A successful ESC strategy is divided into two parts: source control and path management. Source control stops erosion before it starts, while path management catches sediment before it leaves the property. Some examples of what may be required include:
Stabilization of Exposed Soils: On a commercial site, large areas of soil are often left exposed for months. Poly-sheeting, wood chips, or temporary seeding are used to stabilize these areas and prevent erosion.
Controlled Construction Entrance: A site may require a controlled entrance with a wheel wash to prevent trucks and equipment from tracking mud and sediment onto municipal roads where it can end up in waterways.
Silt Fencing: Silt fences or other sediment barriers around the perimeter control sediment transport and runoff during rainfall or high wind.
Catch Basin Protection: Filter fabric socks or donuts are installed around catch basin grates to remove sediment while allowing water to pass through into the storm system.
3. Monitoring and Reporting Requirements
ESC measures require continual monitoring and regular inspections throughout the project to ensure they are functioning as intended. Depending on the specific permit requirements, a site may require a dedicated inspection every seven days or following a significant rainfall event.
During these inspections, water samples may be tested for turbidity. If the water leaving a site exceeds the allowable cloudiness threshold, it can be considered a discharge violation. Proactive management accounts for weather by ensuring all measures are in place and in good working order before rainfall begins.
4. Effective Maintenance and the 24-Hour Rule
Silt fences can tear under the weight of accumulated sediment, and catch basin filters can clog. Regular maintenance is necessary to sustain the functionality of these controls. Conduct follow-up inspections after heavy rainfall and make adjustments to any measures that are damaged.
The Clean-out Phase: Remove sediment build-up in traps or barriers promptly to ensure they continue to capture runoff.
The Sediment Trap: These facilities capture and treat sediment-laden water prior to discharging offsite by providing necessary settling time.
Resource Readiness: Ensure additional erosion control materials are available on site whenever a replacement is needed.
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5. The Financial Impact of Non-Compliance
A stop work order stops every trade on the project. Failure to implement or maintain these measures may result in fines and penalties under municipal, provincial, or federal laws. In addition to direct fines, the cost of emergency remediation such as hiring vacuum trucks to clean municipal storm mains can be billed back to the developer.
Investing in a high-quality ESC setup at the start of the project protects the project timeline and standing with the municipality. Proper implementation avoids the costs of emergency repairs and legal actions associated with significant environmental harm.
6. The Transition to Permanent Drainage
The gap between finishing a foundation and installing final landscaping is a period where soil is highly vulnerable. Phased clearing and construction are used to minimize the amount of exposed soil at any given time, especially during rainy periods.
Phased Clearing: Clear vegetation in stages to minimize exposure.
Vegetation Preservation: Where possible, leave vegetation intact in areas where work is not immediately required to maintain natural soil stability.
Stockpile Locations: Locate soil stockpiles away from storm drains or watercourses to reduce the opportunity for runoff to enter the drainage system.
About Erdem Excavating
As the premier commercial and civil contractor in Greater Victoria, we provide the technical expertise and equipment fleet required for complex site preparation. Our talented team is committed to your project from the first phone call, through to completion.
Looking for a civil partner for your next tender? Connect with Erdem Excavating for a professional consultation on your upcoming commercial or multi-family project.
