FAQs • Pitkin County, CO • CivicEngage

Does the area of disturbance dictate what permits and plans I need to submit?: No, not at the county level. All sites require a drainage and erosion control plan submitted as part of a county building permit application and earthmoving permit application. Disturbed areas larger than 1 acre in the county also require a State of Colorado stormwater construction permit or a waiver.

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Drainage & Erosion Control

1. Why do I need a drainage and erosion control?: We enjoy a high level of water quality in Pitkin County, adding to our enjoyment of life, recreation and wildlife habitat, and contributing to both environmental and human health. Maintenance of the high water quality we enjoy in Pitkin County is the reason we require responsible construction practices and wise management of stormwater runoff from disturbed areas.
Stream Sedimentation
Sedimentation of our streams degrades habitat essential for many aquatic organisms. Our recreation-based economy depends highly on the quality of our waters for fishing, boating, and overall appeal of the Roaring Fork, Fryingpan and Crystal River Valleys.
Human Health
Many of us get our water from streams and creeks in Pitkin County. Others get it from groundwater wells. The quality of our surface water and groundwater is highly dependent upon human behavior. In order to protect our drinking water sources and the health of our community, best management practices (BMPs) to control sedimentation and the movement of organic and inorganic pollutants must be put in place and maintained throughout the life of any construction / development project.

2. Does the area of disturbance dictate what permits and plans I need to submit?: No, not at the county level. All sites require a drainage and erosion control plan submitted as part of a county building permit application and earthmoving permit application. Disturbed areas larger than 1 acre in the county also require a State of Colorado stormwater construction permit or a waiver.

3. What goes into a drainage and erosion control plan for Pitkin County?: Submit a detailed site map that should identify potential watercourses affected by stormwater runoff, accurate calculation of the area of disturbance, type and location of best management practices and methods of maintenance, long-term stabilization and revegetation plans, a description of onsite water management practices, and a description of methods for management of construction water (non-stormwater) discharges.
"Area of disturbance" is defined as the total area at the site where any construction activity is expected to result in disturbance of the ground surface. This includes any activity that could increase the rate of erosion, including, but not limited to, clearing, grading, excavation, and demolition activities, as well as haul roads and areas used for staging where traffic will result in the disturbance of the ground surface, septic and leach field installation, irrigation installation, and landscaping. Construction does not include routine maintenance to maintain the original line and grade, hydraulic capacity, or the original purpose of a facility.

4. How long is a drainage and erosion plan in effect?: The drainage and erosion control plan must be maintained until surface coverage is at least 70% of predisturbance levels or until permanent physical erosion reduction methods have been employed.