Michigan law requires a soil erosion and sedimentation control (SESC) permit for earth-moving projects near water or on larger parcels. The Clare Conservation District handles these permits locally. Getting one before you dig protects waterways, keeps you legal, and avoids costly fines.
Do I Need a Permit?
You need a soil erosion permit if your project meets either of these thresholds:
- Near water: Any earth disturbance of 225 square feet or more within 500 feet of a lake, stream, river, or wetland.
- Large sites: Any earth disturbance of 1 acre or more, regardless of distance to water.
Common projects that trigger permits include driveways, foundations, ponds, grading, shoreline work, and septic system installations near water.
How to Apply
- Call Christiane Rathke at (989) 539-6401 before you start. She can tell you quickly whether your project needs a permit.
- Submit an application to the Clare Conservation District at 545 N. McEwan St., Harrison. Include a site plan showing the work area, waterways, and erosion control measures you plan to use (silt fencing, straw blankets, etc.).
- Pay the permit fee. Fees vary by project size.
- Get your permit before any earth-moving begins. Typical turnaround is a few business days for straightforward projects.
- Install erosion controls before starting work. The District will inspect your site.
- Final inspection. Once the site is stabilized (ground cover re-established), request a final inspection to close out the permit.
Larger or Complex Projects
If your project involves wetland fill, stream crossings, or other impacts to regulated waters, you may also need a permit from EGLE (Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy). Christiane can help you determine whether a state permit applies and point you in the right direction.
Common Mistakes
- Starting work before the permit is issued. This can result in fines and a stop-work order.
- Skipping erosion controls. Bare soil washes into waterways fast, especially on slopes. Install silt fencing and seed exposed areas promptly.
- Forgetting to request final inspection. Your permit stays open until the site is signed off.