CEQA Implementation and Initial Study Assessment Guidelines

CEQA requires the staff agencies of Ventura County to conduct an Environmental Review that identifies the potentially significant impacts of a project on the environment. (See the Ventura County Administrative Supplement to CEQA below for more information.) The purpose of the Environmental Review is to:

• Inform governmental decision-makers and the public of the potential environmental effects of proposed activities.
• Identify the ways that environmental damage can be avoided or significantly reduced.
• Prevent environmental degradation resulting from proposed land developments by requiring change in projects through the use of alternatives or mitigation measures when the County finds that the changes are feasible.
• Disclose to the public the reasons why the County approved the project in the manner chosen if significant environmental effects remain.