National Environmental Policy Act

The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is the federal government's charter for protecting the nation's environment. Through NEPA, Congress directed federal agencies to integrate environmental factors in planning and decision making. During the decision-making process, agencies must consider the environmental, social, economic, and technical factors of proposed actions. The process provides officials, decision makers, and the public with an understanding of the proposed action’s potential impact on the environment. For major actions that could significantly affect the environment, agencies must prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

Environmental Considerations are integrated into Department of Homeland Security mission planning and project decision-making. Environmental stewardship, homeland security, and economic prosperity are compatible and complementary. The Department will comply with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4321-4335) and the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) Regulations for Implementing the Procedural Provisions of NEPA (40 CFR Parts 1500-1508).

Current Department of Homeland Security Environmental Analysis Reports and Decisions

The public is invited to participate in the Department's NEPA process by reviewing documents and findings issued by the Department, and providing comments during the public comment period.

Environmental Impact Statements

• DHS Environmental Impact Statements
• Notices of Intent (NOI)
• Draft Environmental Impact Statements (EIS)
• Final EISs and Records of Decision

Environmental Assessments

• Public Notices to prepare an Environmental Assessment
• Environmental Assessments
• Findings of No Significant Impact (FONSI)

Homeland Security Components

• Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
  • Additional CBP Environmental Analysis Reports
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 
• U.S. Coast Guard 

View NEPA documents prepared for rulemaking actions 

DHS Draft Environmental Justice Strategy 

NEPA Alternative Arrangements

• Alternative Arrangements for the Reconstruction of New Orleans Metropolitan Area Critical Infrastructure
• Alternative Arrangements for Issuing and Implementing the Emergency Temporary Interim Rule to Support Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Response

Department Procedures for Implementing NEPA

• Department Procedures for Implementing NEPA and Administrative Record to Support the Department’s Categorical Exclusions