Which type of project is least likely to be subject to CEQA requirements?

The building permit for a single-family house is least likely to be subject to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requirements due to the nature of the project and its scope. Under CEQA, certain types of projects can qualify for a categorical exemption, which means they are deemed to have a negligible impact on the environment and do not require extensive environmental review.

Single-family residential construction is often categorized under these exemptions, especially when it aligns with local zoning laws and does not involve significant alterations to the existing environment. Typically, projects that are minor in scale, such as building a single-family home, may not require a detailed environmental impact report, making it easier and less costly for developers and homeowners.

In contrast, commercial developments and multi-family housing projects tend to have larger environmental impacts due to their scale and usage, which often necessitate more comprehensive reviews under CEQA. Environmental impact studies are specifically aimed at assessing and documenting potential environmental effects, meaning they are inherently part of projects that require CEQA review, not an exemption from it. Therefore, the building permit for a single-family house represents a scenario where CEQA requirements are least likely to be invoked.