To complete the AF Form 813 accurately, follow each section in order and provide thorough responses. Incomplete or vague entries often delay the environmental review process and may require resubmission. The guide below explains each section and common errors to avoid.
How to Fill Out Section I
Section I captures the proponent's information and the proposed action details. Enter the name and office symbol of the requesting organization, the date of the request, and a clear description of the proposed action. Describe the purpose and need for the action in concrete terms, avoiding vague language. Include all viable alternatives, including the no-action alternative, as NEPA requires consideration of alternatives. List the location using installation name, building number, or geographic coordinates where applicable.
How to Complete Section II
Section II is a checklist of environmental resource areas that may be affected by the proposed action. Review each resource category, including air quality, noise, water resources, biological resources, and cultural resources. For each category, indicate whether the proposed action could affect that resource. If uncertain, mark yes and provide a brief explanation. The Environmental Planning Function reviews these responses to determine the level of analysis needed. Thorough and honest responses at this stage prevent costly revisions later in the process.
Completing Section III
Section III is completed by the Environmental Planning Function, not the proponent. This section records the determination of the appropriate level of environmental review. The possible outcomes include a categorical exclusion (CATEX), a finding of no significant impact (FONSI) following an environmental assessment, or a full environmental impact statement. The proponent should understand these outcomes because they determine how quickly a project may proceed. A CATEX typically allows the fastest approval, while an environmental impact statement may take years to complete.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Several errors frequently cause AF Form 813 submissions to be returned. Leaving Section I fields blank or using unclear project descriptions slows the review. Checking no for all environmental resource categories in Section II without justification raises red flags with reviewers. Failing to include all project alternatives, including no-action, is a common NEPA compliance error. Using an outdated version of the form may cause rejection at the installation level. Always confirm you have the current version before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AF Form 813 used for?
The AF Form 813 is the official request form for an environmental impact analysis on U.S. Air Force installations. It is required before initiating any action that could affect the environment under NEPA and Air Force Instruction 32-7061.
Who submits the AF Form 813?
The project proponent (the person or office proposing an action) submits the form. The Environmental Planning Function then reviews and completes Section III.
How long does it take to process an AF Form 813?
Processing time varies. Actions qualifying for a categorical exclusion may be approved within days. Projects requiring a full environmental assessment can take 6 to 18 months or longer depending on the complexity and scope of the proposed action.
Is the AF Form 813 required for all Air Force projects?
The form is required for any proposed action that could affect the environment on an Air Force installation. Routine maintenance activities that clearly fall under an approved categorical exclusion may not require a new form submission. Check with your installation's Environmental Management office for guidance.