Use of Fill Dirt on Agricultural Operations

by Kate Norris, District Manager PWSWCD
 
Use of fill dirt that will disturb more than 2,500 square feet is regulated by Virginia Code and is enforced locally by Prince William County.  The Department of Public Works is responsible for issuing permits and handling violations.  Some agriculturally-based land disturbing activities are exempt from the permit process.  If you plan to accept fill dirt on your farm you should first contact the Soil and Water Conservation District to learn more about the regulatory process as it relates to farms and specifically your operation.  If your farm-use meets the eligibility requirements to be exempt from the permit process, the SWCD will conduct site evaluations and provide guidance for use of fill dirt on your operation through the development of a Soil and Water Quality Conservation Plan.

Please note that the use of fill dirt in wetlands, floodplains, and Resource Protection Areas (RPA's) anywhere in Prince William County is not allowed.  It is the responsibility of the landowner, not the fill dirt supplier, to make sure all State and County regulations are followed.
 
For more information on the use of fill dirt, please contact Kate Norris, District Manager at Prince William Soil and Water Conservation District  (703) 594-3621.