Construction Sites
Construction sites are some of the largest contributors to stormwater pollution in South Lake Tahoe. Vegetation and soil disturbance from grading activities can cause erosion issues and can discharge large amounts of sediment to the stormwater system. This is why it is important for construction sites to take the necessary precautions to help keep our stormwater clean. Temporary Best Management Practices (BMPs) must be installed during construction activities to prevent illegal discharge of polluted water.
All construction sites disturbing greater than 3 cubic yards of soil must:
- apply for a Grading Permit (PDF) from the City of South Lake Tahoe,
- abide by the conditions of the City Code, Chapter 7.20: Grading,Erosion, and Sediment Control and
- must install temporary BMPs as described in the City of South Lake Tahoe Public Improvements and Engineering Standards (PIES) (PDF).
Drawings from the PIES that are most pertinent to construction site BMPs are listed in the following documents:
The TRPA BMP Handbook is a useful resource in learning how to properly install and maintain BMPs. View the full handbook (PDF) . Certain sections of the handbook are more commonly used on construction sites. To view only these sections visit the following links:
Vehicle Tracking Control (PDF)
Erosion Control Blankets (PDF)
Also please reference the standard drawings for a concrete washout:
Construction sites in the Lake Tahoe Hydrologic Unit disturbing more than one acre of land are regulated by the Lahontan NPDES Permit for Construction Activities (PDF).