Land-use glossary
Environmental impact report
Also: EIR
CEQA's most detailed environmental review, required when a project may have a significant effect on the environment.
An EIR analyzes a project's significant environmental effects, mitigation measures and alternatives. A draft is circulated for public comment, the agency responds in the final EIR, and the decision-making body certifies it before approving the project.
If significant effects remain after mitigation, the agency must adopt a statement of overriding considerations explaining why the project's benefits outweigh them. Later projects may rely on an earlier EIR through an addendum or a supplemental EIR when changes are minor.
What to look for on the agenda
- Significant and unavoidable impacts, and any statement of overriding considerations
- Whether the item certifies a new EIR or relies on an addendum to an older one
- The alternatives considered
Where the rules come from: Cal. Pub. Res. Code §21100 and §21151; CEQA Guidelines §15120 et seq.. Each city's own code adds its details.
Related terms
A general explainer, not legal advice. How we work.