Certified Storm Water Operator Practice Exam

What type of project activity typically requires the establishment of a SESC permit?

1. Landscaping

2. Residential building

3. Road construction

4. Commercial refurbishing

The correct answer is: Road construction

The establishment of a Soil Erosion and Sediment Control (SESC) permit is typically required for activities that have the potential to disturb large areas of land, which may lead to increased erosion and sediment runoff into nearby water bodies. Road construction is a prime example of such an activity because it often involves significant grading, land clearing, and the alteration of natural drainage patterns. In road construction projects, the disturbance of soil and vegetation can expose soil particles, making them susceptible to erosion by wind and water. This can lead to sediment being transported to stormwater systems or directly into streams, rivers, or lakes, potentially harming aquatic ecosystems and water quality. While landscaping, residential building, and commercial refurbishing may also involve some land disturbance, they are typically of a lesser scale and can sometimes manage erosion and sediment control through standard best management practices without requiring an SESC permit. Road construction, given its extensive disturbance of earth, generally necessitates a formal permit to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and to implement proactive measures to manage erosion and sediment effectively.