Land Use and Environmental Law

Worden Williams has specialized in land use and environmental law since it was founded in 1975. The firm's land use representation encompasses all laws that govern the development, protection, and use of real property. Land use matters can range from simple lot line adjustments and easement agreements between two property owners to the processing of applications for a new business or subdivision.

Land use matters more often than not involve application of environmental laws. Worden Williams has unparalleled expertise in all major environmental laws governing land use in California, including the California Environmental Quality Act, National Environmental Policy Act, California Coastal Act, Federal Clean Water Act, and the Federal and State Endangered Species Act.

Worden Williams uses its land use and environmental expertise to help landowners successfully navigate the complex rules and regulations of local and regional agencies, including cities and counties, the Coastal Commission, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the California State Lands Commission, the California Department of Fish and Game and others. Worden Williams frequently represents clients at public hearings and its attorneys have appeared before most local agencies in San Diego County. The following are some of the land use and environmental areas practiced by Worden Williams:

• California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA")

• National Environmental Policy Act ("NEPA")

• Air Quality

• Coastal Act and Coastal Commission

• Endangered Species Act, State and Federal

• Conservation Easements

• Residential and Commercial Easements

• Design Review Regulations

• Hazardous Materials

• Nuisance and Encroachment Abatement

• Open Space Conservation

• Subdivisions

• Lot Line Adjustments

• Water Quality

• General Plan and Zoning Law