Sediment Control
Silt Fence
A temporary sediment barrier of geotextile fabric installed on contours to intercept sheet flow runoff from disturbed areas.
Inspection Checklist
- Posts should be securely driven into the ground.
- Fabric must be trenched in at least 6 inches deep.
- Fabric should be taut and attached securely to posts.
- Ends of the fence should wrap up-slope (J-hook) to prevent bypass.
Common Failures
- Undercutting: Water flowing underneath the fabric due to poor trenching.
- Overtopping: Sediment buildup exceeding 1/3 to 1/2 height of the fence.
- Tearing: Weathered or ripped fabric.
- Knockdowns: Posts falling over due to weight of sediment or wind.
Maintenance & Corrections
- 1. Remove sediment when it reaches 1/3 the height of the fence.
- 2. Replace torn fabric immediately.
- 3. Repair undercutting by re-trenching and compacting soil.
Inspection Freq: Weekly and within 24 hours of 0.5" rain.
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