Complaint ID 114845 — Public Copy

EPD received a Complaint regarding "inadequate closure" of this CTS. See attached PDF of original emailed complaint. On March 18, 2026, EPD conducted a joint site visit with the LIA to provide technical assistance and evaluate the site for non-compliance. A photo of the area of concern that was taken during the Site visit is attached to this CTS record. EPD determined that the site did meet the criteria for an agricultural exemption based on the current and intended use of the property. GA Code § 12-7-17(5) defines agriculturally exempt activities as: "Agricultural operations as defined in Code Section 1-3-3 to include those practices involving the establishment, cultivation, or harvesting of products of the field or orchard; the preparation and planting of pasture land; farm ponds; dairy operations; livestock and poultry management practices; and the construction of farm buildings;" During the meeting with the LIA on March 18, EPD recommended that the LIA withdraw the LDA Permit and refund the applicant for the LDA Permit application, since the activity is exempt and does not fall under the jurisdiction of the LIA. At the time of the site visit, no land disturbing activity was observed, and the site was stabilized with permanent vegetation. At this time, since EPD found no violations at the site, this case is recommended for closure.

"EPD received a letter from the County LIA saying: Emuel Sanford asked if he could fix some storm damage to a creek on his property.  He couldn’t mow it, his tractor fell off into the branch and the field stayed wet so he couldn’t take hay off it either.  Emuel was raised there and wanted to fence it, take some trees, fix it up so he could put some livestock there.  He also wanted to put in a pipe to cross it.  I didn’t think it was an issue so when he asked for a Land Disturbance Permit to do that, we gave him one." County is aware of the disturbance and is monitoring the Site. County did not find any violations at the time of their inspection. At this time, EPD recommends this case for closure.

EPD sent the CTS to the County LIA as they hold primary jurisdiction.