Environmental Impact Assessment Study

If you plan to implement a project that could have a significant impact on the environment, you are legally required to obtain an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Study. This study is a key part of the documentation needed for obtaining permits and avoiding delays caused by inspection supervision.

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What is an Environmental Impact Assessment Study and why is it important?

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Study is a legally required document that identifies, describes, and evaluates potential negative effects of the planned project on:

human health and safety

flora and fauna

air, water, and soil

landscape and cultural heritage

socio-economic conditions

The study:

analyzes all phases of the project

proposes measures to prevent or mitigate impacts

includes the opinion of the expert community

serves as the basis for obtaining a decision on project acceptability from the competent authority

Without an approved study:

you cannot obtain a construction or other operational permit

the project may be suspended

the investor is exposed to the risk of penalties and issues with the public and institutions

Who is legally required to prepare an Environmental Impact Assessment Study?

According to the Law on Environmental Impact Assessment and the Regulation on determining projects for which an environmental impact assessment is mandatory, the obligation applies to:

investors in the fields of energy, mining, transport, agriculture, construction, waste and water management, chemical and food industries

projects involving the construction of facilities, infrastructure, or exploitation of natural resources

all projects located within or near protected natural areas

When is the study mandatory?

The study is mandatory:

before submitting a request for a construction or other permit

before starting construction works

during the project planning phase

when the competent authority, through a preliminary procedure, determines that the project may have a significant impact on the environment

Who issues the decision on project acceptability?

The decision on project acceptability is issued by:

Ministry of Environmental Protection – for projects of national importance

Provincial Secretariat for Urbanism and Environmental Protection – for projects within the territory of AP Vojvodina

Local self-government – for projects of local importance

The decision is made based on the completed study, the opinion of the expert commission, and public participation. Without this decision, it is not possible to obtain a permit.

FAQ

No. It is mandatory for certain sectors or when the authority, through a preliminary procedure, determines a significant impact.
It is the first step in which a project description is submitted. Based on this, the authority decides whether a full study is required.
Typically: ● Study preparation: 10–20 working days ● Preliminary procedure: up to 30 days ● Public hearing and commission opinion: up to 20 days ● Decision on acceptability: up to 10 days after the hearing concludes
The investor is obliged to provide the funds for preparing the study and conducting the public review.
It is valid for the duration of the project, i.e., until the use permit is issued. If significant changes occur, a supplement must be prepared.
Yes. If it is determined that the measures have not been implemented, penalties, suspension of works, and revocation of permits may follow.
Yes. The public has the right to review, comment, and participate in the public hearing. The investor must ensure transparency.