The Minister of the Environment can exempt a project from some or all of the requirements of the Environmental Assessment Act through a declaration order.
Declaration orders are usually considered:
- in cases of emergency
- when the proposal is in the public interest
- where potential environmental effects are likely to be minimal
- where environmental impacts are already being adequately addressed
A proponent may make a written request for a declaration order to the Ministry of the Environment. The Minister will often require a review and public feedback prior to making a decision. The request is usually posted on the Environmental Registry for a minimum of 30 to 45 days for public comment.
