A sediment control device is any best management practice (BMP) that captures soil before runoff carries it off a site. Silt fence is the most common sediment control device, but it is one of several — including wattles, check dams, inlet protection, and sediment basins. Choosing the right device, or combination, depends on whether you are managing sheet flow or concentrated flow.

Silt fence, the most common sediment control device.

What is a sediment control device?

Sediment control devices intercept soil that erosion has set in motion. Soil erosion is a major challenge on disturbed sites where grading removes vegetation, and these devices keep that soil from reaching streets, storm drains, and waterways. They are central to construction site sediment control and to staying compliant with stormwater permits.

Common sediment control devices

• Silt fence: staked fabric barrier for sheet flow around perimeters and disturbed areas. The workhorse device.
• Wattles and check dams: for concentrated flow in channels, ditches, and swales.
• Inlet protection: guards around storm drain inlets to catch sediment before it enters the system.
• Sediment basins and traps: ponding areas that let sediment settle out of larger volumes of runoff.

Where silt fence fits

Silt fence handles sheet flow — the shallow water moving broadly across exposed soil. It is the right device along graded perimeters and disturbed ground. It is not the right device for concentrated flow, where check dams or wattles belong, or for protecting storm drains, where inlet protection is used. Many sites combine several devices, with silt fence forming the perimeter and other controls handling channels and inlets.

Matching the device to the flow

For inlet protection and related products, see our sediment control and inlet protection collection.

Frequently Asked Questions