Soil Erosion & Sedimentation Control

The Grand Traverse County Health Department's (GTCHD) Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Program (SESC) helps protect our area's wetlands, surface water, and the environment from potential adverse impacts of earth changes by assuring appropriate design and implementation of soil erosion and sedimentation control measures and practices. 

If you live within the city limits of Traverse City or Garfield Township, please get in touch with their Zoning Department as they handle their Soil Erosion permitting. 

The Grand Traverse County Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Ordinance, which incorporates Part 91 of Act 451, Michigan's Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Law, regulates and requires a permit for activities: 

  • Within 500 feet of a lake or stream
  • Disturbing more than one (1) acre of soil (43,560 square feet)
  • Located within 500 feet of a regulated wetland
  • Disturbing slopes of 20% or greater
  • Located within 500 feet of a county drain
  • If the soils on site are classified as Group D hydrologic soils

Permitting: 

It is necessary to obtain a soil erosion permit before work begins. Failure to acquire the proper permit may result in additional fees and fines. To apply for a soil erosion permit or determination, applications may be submitted through our online permitting system, EPIC GT. Work cannot begin until a permit is posted at the site. 

Forms:

If you have any questions or need assistance with the process, please contact us at 231-995-6051 or eh@gtcountymi.gov.

2024 Soil Erosion & Sedimentation Control Annual Update (PDF) 

Resources:

  • Townships/Municipalities: Check with your local township zoning office for additional permits that may be required for your project.
  • Grand Traverse County Geographic Information System (GIS): Visit GIS's website for information regarding property ID, legal description, soil type, etc. 
  • Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE): Visit EGLE's website for inquiries regarding inland lakes and streams, high water marks, related wetlands, and a 100-year flood plan.
  • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: Visit the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' website for inquiries regarding structure or work waterward of the Ordinary High-Water Mark or in the Great Lakes or navigable waters, discharges of dredged material, mechanized land clearing, or beach grooming.