What type of environmental document is typically needed when selling airport land?

When selling airport land, a Categorical Exclusion is often the type of environmental document required. This designation applies to actions that do not individually or cumulatively have a significant effect on the human environment. Therefore, they are exempt from becoming a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) or undergoing a more detailed Environmental Assessment (EA).

The use of Categorical Exclusions is common in situations where the land sale does not result in significant environmental impacts, thereby streamlining the process and reducing the regulatory burdens associated with more comprehensive studies. Additionally, agencies often have specific regulations and lists of actions that qualify for a Categorical Exclusion, making it a suitable and efficient option in facilitating the sale of airport land while still complying with environmental regulations.

In contrast, an Environmental Impact Statement is generally required for projects that may significantly affect the environment, while a Finding of No Significant Impact arises from an Environmental Assessment when it’s determined that the proposed action will not have a significant effect on the environment. An Environmental Assessment evaluates the potential environmental effects of a project but is more detailed and comprehensive than a Categorical Exclusion, thus not generally utilized in simpler transactions such as the sale of airport land when no significant impacts are anticipated.