In CEQA, what does ND stand for?

In the context of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), ND stands for Negative Declaration. A Negative Declaration is a formal document that states a proposed project would not have a significant effect on the environment, thus eliminating the need for an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). This declaration serves to inform both the public and decision-makers that, after a review process, the lead agency has determined that an environmental review has been carried out, and no substantial environmental impacts are anticipated.

The process of issuing a Negative Declaration includes various steps, such as a preliminary review of the project, an assessment of its potential environmental impacts, and public participation. If a project is deemed unlikely to cause significant environmental harm, the Negative Declaration allows for a streamlined process, expediting project approval while still acknowledging the need for public involvement and transparency.

Understanding the role of Negative Declarations within CEQA is crucial for landscape architects and planners, as it helps them navigate the environmental review process effectively, ensuring compliance with state regulations while facilitating sustainable development.