Maine § 490-M. - Erosion control requirements for clay, topsoil, or silt excavations of less than 5 acres
Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 490-M. — Erosion control requirements for clay, topsoil, or silt excavations of less than 5 acres, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 490-M.. Erosion control requirements for clay, topsoil, or silt excavations of less than 5 acres
An excavation of less than 5 acres of land for clay, topsoil or silt must be conducted and reclaimed in accordance with the following standards. [PL 1995, c. 700, §34 (NEW).]
1. Stabilization and control. Sediment may not leave the parcel or enter a protected natural resource as defined in section 480‑B. Properly installed erosion control measures must be in place before the excavation begins. Vegetative cover must be established on all affected land. Topsoil must be placed, seeded and mulched within 7 days of final grading. Permanent vegetative cover is acceptable for purposes of erosion control if, within one growing season of seeding, the planting of trees and shrubs results in a permanent stand or a stand capable of regeneration and succession sufficient to ensure a 75% survival rate and the planting of all materials in permanent 90% ground coverage.
2. Phases. The excavation must be reclaimed in phases so that the working pit does not exceed 2 acres at any one time.
Source: official Maine text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 490-M.
What does Maine Revised Statutes § 490-M. cover?
Section 490-M. ("Erosion control requirements for clay, topsoil, or silt excavations of less than 5 acres") is part of the Maine Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Maine. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maine § 490-M.?
A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 490-M." (Maine). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maine law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maine official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maine attorney.
How does Maine § 490-M. apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maine can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maine.