Dear Stakeholder,

Pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guideline Section 15064.7(b), the Department of City Planning is considering adopting updated thresholds of significance and methodologies to analyze impacts: 1) for construction noise and vibration, and 2) to historic resources. Pursuant to the authority of the Director of Planning under Los Angeles Charter Section 506 to make and enforce any necessary rules and regulations, the Director is considering the adoption of updated thresholds and methodology in the Department’s preparation of CEQA clearances. Below is a summary of the proposed updates and the available documents for review.

Construction Noise and Vibration

A new set of thresholds was developed based on input from noise experts and a review of noise thresholds used by other state and local agencies. The new thresholds are intended to be better suited to the City’s urban nature, yet still recognize the importance of human health, including sleep disruption. The thresholds account for reasonable expectations regarding noise and vibration during daytime and nighttime hours and also include absolute noise levels to protect human health.

Historic Resources

The update would memorialize best practices for the review and analysis of historic resources.

A virtual public hearing is being held to provide a formal opportunity for public comment on the proposed updated CEQA thresholds. Individuals may join the public hearing online or by phone to offer testimony.

Written Comments

In lieu of attending the public hearing, comments may be submitted by email to mindy.nguyen@lacity.org or by hard copy to the address below through Wednesday, December 20, 2023. Any written communication must include reference to “Updated CEQA Thresholds.”