What are the environmental permitting requirements?

Existing environmental laws in California seek to protect the environment while ensuring the economic viability of business development and the health and safety of the public. In order to do this, there are specific environmental permitting requirements that must be met in order to legally engage in activities that could affect the environment. In California, most development and construction activities must be authorized by the relevant environmental permitting agency before the proposed project can commence. In most cases this will be either the California Environmental Protection Agency, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, or a regional water quality control board. Depending on the nature and scope of the project, an environmental impact report or a more focused assessment may be required. In addition, some permits may require additional measures to manage potential environmental risks. Examples of these measures include storm water pollution prevention plans, hazardous materials management plans, and wildlife protection and mitigation plans. Certain projects may require additional permits specific to the location of the project and sensitivity of the surrounding environment. A key part of the permitting process is public participation. This allows the public to be informed of the proposed project and provides an opportunity to submit comments to the permitting agency. As such, all environmental permits are subject to public notice and review. Once the permit is issued, the project also must be monitored regularly and enforced in order to ensure that all the requirements of the permit are being met.

Related FAQs

What is the Pollution Prevention Act?
What is the Federal Water Pollution Control Act?
Are there any rights of private citizens to protect their environment?
What are the environmental regulations for manufacturing?
How do I know if a business is complying with environmental regulations?
What are the environmental regulations for hazardous materials?
What are the environmental regulations for hazardous materials?
What is the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act?
How does environmental law protect water quality?
What is the Pollution Prevention Act?

What are the environmental permitting requirements?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts