(A) During the construction process, soils are highly vulnerable to erosion by wind and water. Eroding soil endangers water resources by reducing the water quality and adversely affecting aquatic habitat for fish and other aquatic species. Eroded soils also increase the maintenance and repairs needed to maintain storm sewers, ditched, and other water carrying channels within the city. It decreases the life expectancy for holding ponds and other runoff management facilities. In addition, clearing and grading during construction causes the loss of topsoil and native vegetation necessary for terrestrial and aquatic habitat.
(B) The purpose of this subchapter is to safeguard persons, protect property, and to prevent unnecessary damage to the environment within the city. This subchapter will promote the public welfare by guiding, regulating, and controlling the design, construction, use, and maintenance of any development or activity that disturbs or breaks the topsoil or results in the movement of earth in the city.
(C) Unless specifically exempted, these regulations shall apply to all lands within the city on which the vegetation is removed, disturbed, or fill material has been brought onto a site.