Construction Activities

During construction, uncontrolled stormwater runoff can contribute excess sediments to the storm drainage system and local waterbodies. Other pollutants can also be generated at construction sites, such as paints, solvents, trash, metals and concrete slurry. The Construction Activities Program works with developers to ensure proper implementation of good housekeeping and erosion and sediment control measures.

City activities under the Construction Activities Program include:

• Outlining the development application process, submittal requirements, activities required during construction, and providing compliance guidance
• Reviewing and providing comments upon all land development applications and construction documents
• Holding workshops for City staff and developers
• Requiring and reviewing Grading Plans for projects that involve grading.
• Requiring and reviewing all projects that disturb any soil for appropriate Erosion and Sediment Control and good housekeeping plans
• Requiring and reviewing Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs) for applicable projects
• Conducting inspections of all active construction sites

In addition to complying with the City’s requirements, construction projects disturbing one acre or more need to obtain coverage under the State Water Resources Control Board's General Construction Stormwater Permit. Failure to obtain a permit directly from the State could result in non-issuance of a building or grading permit, notices of violation, and may lead to significant fines. The general construction permit (CGP) requires preparation of a SWPPP. The CGP requires construction sites to conduct regular inspections of erosion and sediment control measures before, during, and after storm events to maintain these measures and monitor for pollutant discharges. Regular monitoring also includes implementation of good housekeeping measures on site.

More information on the State Construction General Permit.

Forms and Handouts

• City of Davis Building Division Forms
• Yard Material Management (PDF)
• Stormwater Pollution Prevention: Concrete and Mortar (PDF)
• Stormwater Pollution Prevention: Painting (PDF)
• Stormwater Pollution Prevention: Construction Activities (PDF)
• Stormwater Pollution Prevention: Landscape Renovations (PDF)

Helpful Links

State of California

• Bay-Delta Ecosystem Restoration Program (CALFED)
• California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) 
• Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board
• Department of Water Resources
• Environmental Protection Agency
• Stormwater Regulations
• State Water Resources Control Board

Federal

• EPA Menu of SW BMPs
• Federal Stormwater Regulations

California Stormwater Quality Association (CASQA):

• CASQA
• Erosion and Sediment Control BMP Fact Sheets
• New Development and Redevelopment BMP Handbook

Other

• California Native Grasslands Association
• River-Friendly Landscaping  
• UC Davis Arboretum