Community Economic Development Agency

Environmental Compliance Unit

Environmental Compliance:

The City of Oakland currently compiles with both state and federal environmental regulations. The City of Oakland, CEDA, Planning and Zoning division manages the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Federal compliance, NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) is managed by the City of Oakland, CEDA, Director’s Office.

All projects requesting permits from the City of Oakland or federal funding must comply with both state and federal regulations. Private projects must comply with CEQA regulations prior to the issuance of city permits. Currently the City of Oakland conducts under the guidance of U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development reviews for city agencies, non-profits and special interest groups.

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA):

Throughout the year, the CEDA agency is requested to conduct assessments on an assortment of projects: Neighborhood Commercial Revitalization, Small Business startups and maintenance, Housing and Commercial Development, including review of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) public service projects. Depending upon the proposed project’s description, it is exempt, categorically excluded or requiring further assessment for its determination. The most common exempt/categorically excluded activities are:

Exempt Projects:

• Public service activities, federal funds for environmental or architectural studies.

Categorically Excluded Projects:

• Rehabilitation of existing structures with no change in use and restricted working capital.

California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)

All construction requiring a permit must comply with the California Environmental Quality Act. Although there are a variety of projects that may be exempt or categorically excluded from CEQA, the most common are:

Exempt Projects:

• New construction of 100 housing units or less for low and moderate-income households.

Categorically Excluded Projects:

• Rehabilitation of existing structures with no change in use.

For Additional NEPA Information:

For Additional CEQA Information:

If you have questions regarding the determination of your project, contact the Planning and Zoning division at 510-238-3941.