The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) is California’s premier environmental law, and is a powerful tool for public participation. It allows public agencies to make informed decisions about activities that could degrade public health and damage the environment. It also provides California residents with the legal framework to hold their public agencies accountable for decisions that may substantially alter the quality of their lives.
In March 1997, PCLF first produced the Community Guide to CEQA, and it was later revised in 2002. Since then, there have been statutory changes and legal decisions that made the Guide outdated. In 2007, the user-friendly Guide was completely revised, produced in full color, and includes a layout that allows for easy page/section revisions. Additionally, the Guide’s author, Bill Yeates, has incorporated specifics on global warming, water assessment and water supply as they relate to CEQA.
Details on the Guide >>
To help local communities effectively participate in the environmental review process PCLF developed a Workshop series on the Community Guide to CEQA. PCLF hosts monthly workshops throughout the state to educate participants about the environmental review process.
Workshop Information >>
PCLF’s sister organization, the Planning and Conservation League, is working diligently to support legislation that that (1) requires Environmental Impact Reports (EIR) older than 5 years to be re-circulated, and (2) allows administrative drafts of EIRs to have public scrutiny and comment.
PCL’s efforts >>
Everyday Heroes Protect the Air We Breathe, the Water We Drink and the Natural Areas We Prize: Thirty-five Years of the California Environmental Quality Act
This new report showcases the sweeping achievements of our state's cornerstone thirty-five year law. A culmination of stories brought together from the PCL Foundation, PCL and the California League of Conservation Voters.
Learn More About Everyday Heroes>>
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CEQA Success Stories
Hear how Mono Lake and its tributaries are being restored because an EIR documented the balance of protection of the municipal water supply and the public trust.
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Do you have a CEQA Story?
Has CEQA has allowed you to protect families or our natural resources? If so, we’d love to hear your CEQA success story.
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