Temporary Silt Fence

The temporary silt fence is the most frequently used erosion control device.  Its purpose is to prevent sedimentation in off-site waters caused by erosion on the construction site.  

Temporary Silt Fence

The temporary silt fence is simply a band of fabric running along the ground which holds back the sediments and allows the water to pass through.  

Silt fences are often installed incorrectly.  The fabric should be buried at least 8 inches deep, but most people do not take the time to bury the fabric.  If the bottom is not buried in the ground, the silt fence is rendered less effective.

 
Location of the Sedimentation Fence

A silt fence is place at the toe of a fill site.  The fill site is very prone to erosion since the dirt has no vegetation covering it.

The temporary silt fence filters sediment out of the runoff coming out of the fill site, preventing it from contaminating off-site waters.  The silt fence should remain in place until the disturbed area has been stabilized.

The following symbol is used to refer to a temporary silt fence on a stormwater control plan: