When must perimeter controls be installed?

Perimeter controls are critical in stormwater management as they help prevent sediment and other pollutants from leaving a construction site and affecting surrounding environments. The appropriate time to install perimeter controls is before upslope land disturbance occurs. This ensures that as soon as land is disturbed for construction, there is an effective barrier in place to manage potential runoff and sediment transport. By having these controls in place beforehand, site managers can mitigate the risk of erosion and maintain compliance with regulations designed to protect water quality. This proactive approach exemplifies best practices in stormwater management, reducing the likelihood of costly remediation efforts later on.

Installing perimeter controls after construction begins, during inspections, or relying on weather forecasts would not provide the necessary protection, as sediment and pollutants could already be released into the environment if the ground disturbance has occurred without controls in place.