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External CEQA Project Review Procedures

CEQA STEPS DEPARTMENT ACTION DEPARTMENT LEAD RESPONSIBILITY
Public agency evaluates project to determine if the project may have a significant effect on the environment. Respond to informal coordination Region
Lead agency prepares initial study.

Lead agency decision to prepare environmental impact report (EIR) or negative declaration. 		Respond to informal coordination Region
Lead agency sends notice of preparation to responsible agency.

Lead agency prepares draft EIR or negative declaration. 		Respond to notice of preparation as to contents of draft EIR or negative declaration (see Section 15082 (b) CEQA Guidelines) Region
Lead agency files notice of completion and gives public notice of availability of draft of EIR or negative declaration

Public review period. 		Comments on adequacy of draft EIR or negative declaration Region/Habitat Conservation Planning Branch (HCPB) - Advice
Lead agency prepares final EIR including responses to comments on draft EIR.
Decision making body considers final EIR or negative declaration prepared by lead agency.

Findings on feasibility of avoiding significant environmental effects. 		Optional review and comment on adequacy of response and public hearing testimony. Region/HCPB Advice
Decision on project. State agencies file notice of determination with OPR.

Local agencies file notice of determination/ certification with County Clerk. State agencies file notice of determination with OPR. 		Department may challenge decision of approval under CEQA. Region/ HCPB/LAD Attorney General

Contact CDFW's CEQA Program: CEQA@wildlife.ca.gov

NOTE: CDFW staff cannot make decisions or intercede on CEQA projects under the jurisdiction of another lead agency. Please address project-specific comments to the project's lead agency.