California Environmental Quality Act: exemption: public access: nonmotorized recreation.

Assembly Member Rogers proposes expanding California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) exemptions for public access projects to include county park agencies, building upon existing provisions that currently apply only to park districts and the Great Redwood Trail Agency.

The exemption would allow county park agencies to modify public access for nonmotorized recreation without full CEQA review when using preexisting infrastructure like paved roads, natural surface trails, pathways, and disturbed parking areas. To qualify, projects must meet specific criteria: the area must be used exclusively for nonmotorized recreation, no physical alterations can occur, and the changes cannot significantly impact tribal cultural resources or protected species. The bill defines nonmotorized recreation as low-impact activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and nature viewing.

Lead agencies must follow prescribed public engagement steps before approving exempt projects, including hosting a public meeting with remote participation options and posting notices online and at project sites 30 days in advance. Agencies must then file notices with the State Clearinghouse and county clerk documenting their determination. The provisions would expire on January 1, 2030, unless extended by future legislation.