Erosion and Sediment Control

Soil erosion from building and development sites can be a major source of sediment pollution in our waterways.

A cleared standard residential-sized block can lose up to four truckloads of soil in one storm.

The sediment can cause flooding, damage infrastructure and affects the water quality in our creeks, rivers and ocean, including smothering sensitive in-shore coral colonies along Hervey Bay's foreshore.

Benefits of effective on-site erosion and sediment controls are:

All-weather site access;
Improved wet weather working conditions;
Improved drainage and reduced site wetness;
Reduced stockpile losses;
Less mud and dust problems;
Reduced clean-up costs;
Fewer public complaints;
Better public image, more marketable sites;
Reduced risk of fines;
Better fishing; and
Less damage to our environment.

What you can do

Everyone has a responsibility to protect the environment.

Site supervisors are required to make sure that all workers, including sub-contractors, do the right thing.

It is unlawful for any contaminant to enter a stormwater system.

If you do have an accident and pollution occurs, you are required by law to notify Council so we can work with you to minimise any harm to the environment.

Regulation of building and development sites

Authorised persons from Council enforce the environmental legislation and undertake routine inspections of building and development sites.

They will provide advice and assist builders and developers to comply with their environmental duty under the Act.