The High Stakes of Environmental Comments

CEQA/NEPA comment responses can:

Delay projects by years

Trigger litigation

Require additional studies

Shape mitigation requirements

Getting responses right is critical.

Types of Comments

Agency Comments

Resource agencies (Fish & Wildlife, Army Corps)

Air quality districts

Regional water boards

Cal Fire / local fire

Public Comments

Neighboring property owners

Environmental groups

Community organizations

Individuals

Response Best Practices

1. Take Every Comment Seriously

Even seemingly minor comments deserve thorough responses.

2. Stay Objective

Avoid defensive or dismissive language.

3. Support with Evidence

Reference studies, data, and expert analysis.

4. Acknowledge Uncertainty

If something is unknown, say so and explain how you'll address it.

Organization Matters

For large EIR/EIS projects:

Number all comments consistently

Group by agency/commenter

Create a master response matrix

Cross-reference related responses

Technology Helps

PlanReview's environmental vertical helps:

Parse agency comment letters automatically

Track deadlines across multiple agencies

Route comments to appropriate specialists

Generate response matrices

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Responding to CEQA/NEPA Comments: Expert Tips