• Silt fences are used all over the United States as a way to prevent erosion and water runoff, and protect bodies of water from soil runoff that could change the make-up of the body of water. Like many states, Texas complies with federal standard for silt fence and erosion control measures, but has some specific codes that go above and beyond the federal standard.
  
  

Silt Fence Anchoring

• The silt fence must be 10 inches deep if the soil is sliced (with a shovel) or 6 inches deep if trenched using a trencher. The bottom is then buried and the soil compacted prior to the stakes being driven into the soil. The stakes can be wood if the silt fence is woven geotextile fabric with minimum slopes. Reinforced geotextile fabric requires metal stakes every 6.5 feet for proper anchoring.
  
  

Reinforced Silt Fence

• Reinforced silt fence is required for rock and clay soil types and has a high tinsel strength to avoid tearing or ripping. The reinforcement is from galvanized wire woven into the fabric.
  
  

Silt Fence Placement

• Silt fences are required in Texas along sidewalks to prevent runoff from carrying dirt and debris into the storm sewers. This method is not a federal standard as the silt fence can be installed parallel to the slope of the particular grade.