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Grading, Erosion, and Sediment Control (GESC) Permit

General Information

SEMSWA issues Grading, Erosion, and Sediment Control (GESC) permits within unincorporated Arapahoe County for all disturbances outlined in the GESC Manual. These permits are typically issued in association with new development, redevelopment, or utility projects. For SEMSWA GESC Plan and Permit requirement matrix, please click below. If you think you need a permit, please call SEMSWA at 303-858-8844 and ask to speak with one of the GESC engineers, or email us at semswamain@semswa.org. 

GESC-Permit-Manager-Form.pdfSEMSWA GESC Plan and Permit requirement matrix

Standard GESC Permit Instructions

Refer to GESC Manual Section Reference for Additional Information

1. Apply for GESC permit

  • Pickup approved GESC plans from SEMSWA
  • Complete GESC Permit application and submit to Southeast Metro Stormwater Authority (SEMSWA) with Fees (2.14)
  • Provide GESC permit fee due with GESC Permit Application
  • Provide Collateral with the GESC Permit Application (2.16)

2. Prior to GESC Permit Approval

  • Designate a GESC Manager and Alternate GESC Manager
  • NOTE: A GESC MANAGER MUST BE DESIGNATED PRIOR TO THE PRE-CONSTRUCTION MEETING. THE GESC MANAGER DESIGNATION FORM SHALL BE SUBMITTED TO SEMSWA AT THE PRE-CONSTRUCTION MEETING.
  • Install Initial BMPs in accordance with approved GESC Plans (5.3.1) (Must get City Public Works approval and submit the Development Permit (if applicable) prior to BMP installation).
  • Schedule GESC Pre-Construction Meeting (5.3.3) with SEMSWA at 303.858.8844

3. Throughout Duration of GESC Permit

  • Provide regular GESC inspections in accordance with the GESC Manual
  • Ensure proper installation and maintenance of BMPs as required within the GESC Manual (5.7, 5.8)

4. GESC Permit Close-Out

  • Initial Close-Out can be requested when all improvements are completed, and the site/area is stabilized. A Close Out Form should be submitted to request Initial Close Out.
  • Schedule Initial Close-Out Acceptance Inspection (7.1.5)

5. Interim Between Initial Close-Out and Final Close-Out

  • Provide GESC Inspections in accordance with the GESC Manual (7.3)

6. Final Close-Out

  • Once the entire project has reached the required vegetative coverage, in accordance with Section 7.3, the Permittee shall call SEMSWA to schedule a Final Close Out Inspection.
  • Once Final Close-Out Acceptance has been granted, SEMSWA will approve the Final Close-Out Acceptance form and collateral for the project will be released (7.5)