Ground disturbances are those that disturb the ground surface at the property site or that have the potential to disturb the site in the future. The most common types are grading, excavation, underground work, and surface building demolition. Ground disturbances tend to attract opposition since they can have a significant impact on property values and the environment. However, if you have a solid plan in place and take care to follow your permit and zoning requirements, you should have no trouble getting your project approved. In fact, most jurisdictions allow a certain number of days for you to complete construction and expect that you will address any issues related to permits and zoning as soon as possible. If your project involves grading or other forms of ground disturbance, here are some things to consider before you break ground:
Check your site plan and zoning regulations
First and foremost, you should make sure that your project falls within the scope of your site plan and zoning regulations. If you don’t have a copy of your site plan on hand, you can find it in your online permitting system. You’ll also need to know the zoning for your property. If your project is within an existing zoning district, you should review the zoning map for changes to the boundaries of the district. If your project is outside of an existing zoning district, you should review the zoning map to determine if it is zoned appropriately for your project.
Review permit application requirements
Most jurisdictions require permits for all forms of ground disturbance. You’ll need to check the permit application requirements for each permit type. For example, if you require a grading permit for your project, you’ll need to know the location of any wetlands, floodplains, or other environmentally sensitive areas on the property and the distance from the property line where these areas begin. You may also need to submit a drainage plan depending on the type and severity of the grading.
Identify potential issues and resolve them
Some ground disturbances are more likely to result in a permit application denial than others. For example, grading that creates a flood hazard or exceeds a certain soil erosion rate will likely be denied. If you identify any potential issues, you should take steps to resolve them. For example, if you identify a potential flood hazard, you may need to install a flood control structure. You may also need to identify a contractor to provide a written plan to mitigate any issues.
Protect your site during construction
Grading, excavation, and other forms of ground disturbance can cause damage to your site. You may need to install fencing, post warning signs, or construct a trench break system. You may also need to install a site stabilization system to help prevent soil erosion. If you identify any areas with potential for soil erosion, you should take action to protect those areas. For example, if your site has soil that is susceptible to erosion, you should consider implementing a soil conservation plan.
Notify the public and neighbors
If you will disturb the soil or ground surface, you may need to notify the public about the work. You should also notify any neighbors that could be affected by the work. You can do this through a flyer, sign, or permit-required sign. You should also make sure that you are in compliance with any notice requirements under your permit. For example, if you are grading a wetland, you may need to give written notice to the EPA and any state natural resource agencies.
Conclusion
Ground disturbances can have a significant impact on your property and your neighbors. You should take care to address any permit and zoning requirements as soon as possible. You should also take care to protect the site during construction, notify the public and neighbors, and follow any other instructions in your permit.