Environmental Review Program

The Environmental Quality Board (EQB) oversees the state of Minnesota’s environmental review program, which provides usable information for project proposers, government decision makers, and members of the public about a proposed project’s primary environmental effects. The EQB's environmental review duties are directed by Minnesota Statutes 116D.04. EQB has the authority to draft rules for the State Environmental Review Program. These rules describe:

  • when review is required
  • procedures for conducting the review
  • criteria that must be used for making decisions on environmental review documents

EQB is responsible for monitoring the effectiveness of the program and responding appropriately to modify and improve the effectiveness.

Environmental review is conducted by a responsible governmental unit (RGU) such as a county, city or state agency. The requirements for environmental review are based on the nature, size, and location of the proposed project, and are described in Minnesota Rules 4410.

Wondering when environmental review is required in Minnesota? Please contact EQB staff with any questions related to the Environmental Review Program at 651-757-2873 or Env.Review@state.mn.us.

In this section:

EQB Monitor

Environmental Review Projects Interactive Map

Guidance for Practitioners and Proposers

Guidance for Citizens

Environmental Review Implementation Subcommittee

Environmental Review Master Contract

Regulations

General Environmental Review Guidance

Environmental Review Distribution List: The distribution list of all responsible parties required to receive a copy of environmental review documents.

2010 Guide to Minnesota Environmental Review Rules: A guide to aid units of government and others involved in the Minnesota Environmental Review Program

  • Changes of note:
    • Page 21: In 2011 a legislative directive amended Minnesota Statute 116D.04 to increase the number of signatures required for a petition for an environmental assessment worksheet from 25 to 100.  The statute was also amended to require that the petitioners must reside or own property in the State of Minnesota.