Erosion Prevention & Sediment Control Permit

Overview

Erosion prevention and sediment control are critical components of protecting our water resources and maintaining healthy natural systems. In the City of St. Helens, construction and land disturbance can significantly increase the risk of erosion, leading to sediment and pollutant runoff into the public stormwater system, rivers, wetlands, and other sensitive water bodies.

To address these impacts, the City requires an Erosion Prevention & Sediment Control (EPSC) Permit for projects that meet certain thresholds of land disturbance. These requirements are part of a broader effort to meet both local development standards and regional environmental protection goals.

Why EPSC Is Important?

Erosion and sediment runoff from construction sites can cause significant damage to local water bodies and infrastructure. The EPSC program is part of the City’s broader stormwater management efforts to:

• Prevent sediment and pollutants from entering the stormwater system
• Protect aquatic habitats and water quality

• Promote responsible site development and environmental stewardship

Compliance with Mercury TMDL Implementation Plan

This EPSC permitting requirement is a key part of the City’s compliance with the Mercury Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Implementation Plan overseen by Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Sediment is a primary carrier of mercury in surface waters. By reducing erosion and sediment runoff from construction and development sites, the City actively reduces the transport of mercury into streams, wetlands.

Under the TMDL framework, the City is committed to:

• Reducing pollutant loading from urban runoff
• Promoting best management practices for construction sites
• Incorporating erosion control into development regulations and enforcement

The EPSC permit is a proactive step to fulfill these commitments and protect public health and environmental quality for future generations.

When Is an EPSC Permit Required?

An EPSC Permit is required under any of the following circumstances:

• Any construction or applicable ground disturbing that meets or exceeds 5,000 square feet of land disturbance or greater.
• Any construction or applicable ground disturbing that meets or exceeds 1,000 square feet of land disturbance or greater and is within 50 feet of a body of water or a wetland.

These requirements are established under City of St. Helens Municipal Code Chapter 18.36.

Permit Application Process

1. Download the EPSC Permit Application below.
2. Prepare Your EPSC Plan
   • Use Clean Water Services’ Erosion Prevention and Sediment Control Planning and Design Manual to design appropriate measures.
   • View Manual (external link)
3. Submit Your Application
   • Email your completed EPSC permit form and EPSC plan to: Engineering@sthelensoregon.gov
4. City Review and Approval
   • The Engineering Division will review the application and contact you with any additional requirements or approval status.

Enforcement & Penalties

The City enforces EPSC requirements to ensure compliance and environmental protection. Violations may result in escalating enforcement actions and civil penalties outlined in Code Chapter 18.36.

Need Help?

If you have questions about the EPSC permit process or need assistance with your EPSC Plan, please contact:City of St. Helens – Engineering Division

• EMAIL: Engineering@sthelensoregon.gov

• CALL: (503) 397-6272

• VISIT: City Hall 265 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR 97051.

Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5pm (Closed daily from 12 - 1pm)