Arizona Bulk Transmission Environmental Review(9-AZ)

Transmission lines with a voltage of 115kV or greater must obtain a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility (CEC) from the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC). The requirements for routing and permitting electric transmission lines are found in Arizona Revised Statute Title 40, Chapter 2, Article 6.2.

According to regulations, the application for a CEC must include a description of the proposed facility and any environmental studies the applicant has or intends to perform in connection with the proposed facility. Ariz. Admin. Code § R14-3-219 The following is a summary of environmental factors the Transmission Line Siting Committee (TLSC) (which is a committee that includes seven members appointed by the ACC formed to oversee transmission line routing issues in the state) considers as a basis for its action with respect to the suitability of transmission line siting plans:

Existing plans of the state, local government and private entities for other developments at or in the vicinity of the proposed site;
Fish, wildlife and plant life and associated forms of life on which they are dependent;
Noise emission levels and interference with communication signals;
The proposed availability of the site to the public for recreational purposes, consistent with safety considerations and regulations;
Existing scenic areas, historic sites and structures or archaeological sites at or in the vicinity of the proposed site;
The total environment of the area;
Any additional factors that require consideration under applicable federal and state laws pertaining to any such site. A.R.S. § 40-360.06

Local Process
The CEC granted by the TLSC must be in compliance with all applicable ordinances, master plans and regulations of the state, a county or an incorporated city or town in which a facility will be located. A.R.S. § 40-360.06 Construction of an transmission line and associated facilities (such as substations) may be subject to lands use permitting requirements. Commonly required local permits include (but are not limited to) Conditional Use Permits, Special Use Permits, Zoning Use Permits, and Right-of-Way (ROW) Permits.

More Information

Determine Which State and Federal Permits Apply

Use this overview flowchart and following steps to learn which federal and state permits apply to your projects.