Improving erosion and sediment control on building sites
Get the Site Right is a joint taskforce between the Parramatta River Catchment Group, Cooks River Alliance, Georges Riverkeeper, Sydney Coastal Councils Group, Water NSW, NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA), Department of Planning and Environment, and many Sydney councils, including most of Georges Riverkeeper's Member Councils. We are working together to target developers and enforce best practice on commercial and residential building sites, as well as major infrastructure projects, to protect our waterways and surrounding environments.
Why should you care about erosion and sediment control on building sites?
The suburbs around Sydney’s waterways are booming. Our growing population and need for more housing, schools, roads and other amenities has seen a rise in new residential and commercial developments and construction, as well as increased public expectation for a quality, local waterway which we can safely use for leisure activities.
Did you know that up to four truckloads of soil from a building site can be washed away in a single storm if not properly contained? If sediment such as soil, sand, dirt and mud are not properly managed on building sites they can directly pollute our river and cause severe environmental problems, making it less safe for people to use.
How sediment spills affect our environment and waterways:
- Directly pollutes our creeks, river and harbours by filling them with dirt, soil, sand and mud. This leads to poorer water quality, affecting swimming or leisure activities in and around our waterways.
- Destroys aquatic habitats and smothers native plants and animals that live our waterways.
- Blocks stormwater drains leading to flooding and overflows.
- Erodes creek and river banks.
- Causes health and safety risks such as slippery roads and tripping hazards.
See a site that's not right?
Contact the EPA’s 24/7 Environment Line on 131 555.
To Get The Site Right, avoid these mistakes!
Collapsed sediment fences, loose sand and poor site control are some of the things you can be reported and fined for.
Follow the rules
There are rules that developers need to follow to contain and manage sediment on their work site in a responsible manner. It is against the law to breach these rules. Local councils and the NSW Environment Protection Authority have the power to issue penalties if you don't follow the rules. For common offences like water pollution or not following a clean-up notice, the fines are:
- $15,000 for a first offence and $22,500 for a second offence for individuals,
- $30,000 for a first offence and $45,000 for a second offence for corporations.
Home builders and renovators
If you are building or renovating a home, you must have erosion and sediment control measures in place. Ensure your builders are adhering to the rules. For more information, click here or contact your local council.
Developers and builders
If you are a developer or managing a building site, download a quick summary of the facts or consult the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage’s ‘Blue Book’ for detailed rules and guidelines.
March 2025 Inspection Blitz
As part of the month-long campaign in March, officers from NSW EPA and more than 20 councils will participate in inspections for a one-day compliance blitz on Thursday 13 March.
