Get the Site Right
‘Get the Site Right’ is a joint taskforce of local councils, catchment groups, NSW Environment Protection Authority and Department of Planning and Environment, which targets erosion and sediment control on commercial and residential building sites across NSW.
We work with developers, builders and the community to raise awareness about the harmful effects of sediment runoff on our waterways, and highlight the important role they play in helping to improve water quality and protect our natural environment and wildlife.
What is Erosion and Sediment Control?
Erosion and sediment control is used on building and construction sites to prevent soil, sand and other sediment from being washed off the site and into gutters, stormwater drains and waterways. Sediment runoff that enters our waterways can have a significant impact on the environment, polluting the water and harming aquatic plants and animals and other wildlife. It can also block stormwater drains and cause overflows and flooding. Good erosion and sediment control involves careful management of the site before, during and after construction, using a combination of control measures. These controls help to minimise site disturbance and trap sediment before it can wash away. They can also prevent the loss of stockpiles and improve building site conditions generally.
WHY DO I NEED AN EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL PLAN?
- You are legally obliged to install erosion and sediment control measures on your site.
- Many councils require you to submit an erosion and sediment control plan before work begins.
- If activity on your site causes a pollution incident, you could receive fines of $8,000 to $15,000 for each incident.
- Save money and downtime by having an organised site and preventing costly building supplies from being washed away during wet weather.
- Reduce hazards and improve the health and safety for your workers and the community.
- We can all help to make our waterways clean and safe places for everyone to enjoy.
View our Best Practice Erosion & Sediment Controls factsheet.
SEE A SITE THAT’S NOT RIGHT?
Report pollution incidents, including poor erosion and sediment control, to your local council or the EPA’s 24/7 Environment Line on 131 555.
