When building a new home or adding on to your current home, there are a few important things to keep in mind. The following checklist will assist you in ensuring that the appropriate factors have been considered:

Evaluate the Site: 

Before construction begins, evaluate the entire site, marking for protection any important trees and associated rooting zones, unique areas to be preserved, streams, wetlands, potential hydric soils, and vegetation suitable for filter strips, especially in perimeter areas. Remember to call the Ohio Utilities Protection Service (OUPS) at 800-362-2764 48 hours before you dig, as well as the Oil and Gas Producers Underground Protection Service at 800-925-0988.

Install Perimeter Controls: 

Identify the areas where sediment runoff could leave the construction site and install perimeter controls to minimize the potential for off-site sedimentation. This could include leaving a buffer strip, using silt fence, and protection of storm sewer inlets.

Build the Structures and Install Utilities:

Construct the home or addition and install utilities, as well as the sewage disposal system and well, if applicable.

Maintenance:

Maintain all erosion and sediment control measures until construction is complete and the lot is stabilized. Inspect at least once per week and after a storm event. Sweep or scrape soil tracked onto roadways.

Revegetate the Site: 

Immediately after all outside activities are complete, stabilize the lot with seed, sod, and mulch. Redistribute the stockpiled soil, and spread to a depth of 4-6 inches over rough-graded areas. Spread mulch on newly seeded areas.

Remove Remaining Temporary Control Measures: 

Once the sod and/or vegetation is established, remove any temporary erosion and sediment control measures.