Sandbags not allowed for stormwater runoff???

[Jim R.]

I have a project in southern Cal, i recently called for inspection of the erosion control, BMP's. The inspector sent me an email saying that sand bags are not allowed in the city because they have a pollutant. I asked what is the pollutant and was told the SAND in the bags is the pollutant. Because the cost to change out hundreds of sand bags would go back to the owner and civil engineer (sand bags called out on plans), i requested documentation and to write me a correction notice with code requirement. I was told they use Caltrans standards and to go to their website. I did and the Caltrans construction site BMP's checklist for run-off control lists, silt fence, fiber rolls, gravel bags, sand bags and straw bales. I sent this information as an attachment to the inspector last week and again asked for something in writing, so far nothing... Has anyone else run into this? Can a city inforce something without proper code requirement? Your help is appreciated.

 

[Mark K]

I do not believe that this is a building code item.

To answer your question the city cannot require something that is not mandated by a law or regulation. They cannot enforce Caltrans standards on a private project unless the regulation specifically calls for them.

Would suggest that you notify the Owner and his consultant of the problem. You may want to call the inspectors supervisor to help you identify the basis for the requirement along with a reference to the applicable regulation. If this is not easily resolved suggest you document the problem and your response.

 

[fatboy]

Welcome to the forum. I agree, this isn't a buildings codes issue, sounds like you might be battling a local standards issue, so good luck with that.

 

[peach]

Welcome.. ditto.. it's a local thing.

 

[mark handler]

Burlap is not acceptable in some jurisdictions, because of durability, and some contractors try to use dirt, in liu of sand or gravel. But never heard of a pollutant issue.

 

[peach]

non of the measures listed by CALTRANS are generally meant to be a forever fix.. the soil needs to be permanently stabilized (retaining walls and sod, usually)...

 

[mark handler]

http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/env/stormwater/

 

[JBI]

Welcome, and it's an Environmental issue. The link mark handler provided should have the answer...

 

[globe trekker]

Jim R.

Also, ..."Welcome to the Code Forum!"

In looking at the Cal-Trans Fact Sheet, Number SC-8, the Resident Engineer would

have to approve their installation.

Appropriate Application:

■ This BMP may be implemented on a project-by-project basis in addition to other BMPs when

determined necessary and feasible by the Resident Engineer ( RE ).

■ Along the perimeter of a site.

■ Along streams and channels.

■ Below the toe of exposed and erodible slopes.

■ Down slope of exposed soil areas.

■ Around stockpiles.

■ Across channels to serve as a barrier for utility trenches or provide a temporary channel

crossing for construction equipment, to reduce stream impacts.

■ Parallel to a roadway to keep sediment off paved areas.

■ At the top of slopes to divert roadway runoff away from disturbed slopes.

■ To divert or direct flow or create a temporary sediment/desilting basin.

■ During construction activities in stream beds when the contributing drainage area is

less than 2 ha ( 5 acres ).

■ When extended construction period limits the use of either silt fences or straw bale barriers.

■ Along the perimeter of vehicle and equipment fueling and maintenance areas or chemical

storage areas.

■ To capture and detain non-storm water flows until proper cleaning operations occur.

■ When site conditions or construction sequencing require adjustments or relocation of the barrier to

meet changing field conditions and needs during construction.

■ To temporarily close or continue broken, damaged or incomplete curbs.

This information is from the link that mark handler provided - - check this link out.

http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/construc/stormwater/factsheets.htm

Hope this helps!

.

 

[Mark K]

It is still not clear whether compliance with Caltrans standards is legaly required.