SEC Appeal Process

Through our appeal process, the public can dispute final decisions made by the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection. Appeals often concern compliance orders, environmental permits, or other NDEP decisions. After reviewing the facts, evidence, and legal context of a case, we issue a final decision to resolve the conflict. Our appeal hearings are open to the public but are addressed in a quasi-judicial setting. Much like a court room then, appeals are “contested cases” that are not subject to Nevada's Open Meeting Law. 

If you want to comment on issues associated with an appeal, you may only do so during the final comment period after the appeal hearing concludes.

On What Evidence Can I Base an Appeal?

Nevada law gives you six grounds for filing an appeal. You may appeal because a decision:

1. Violated any constitutional or statutory provision
2. Exceeded the statutory authority of the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection
3. Was made upon unlawful procedure
4. Was affected by other error of law
5. Was clearly erroneous in view of the reliable, probative, and substantial evidence on the whole record
6. Was arbitrary or capricious or characterized by abuse of discretion

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Four Steps to the SEC Appeal Process

1. Someone Files an Appeal

Appeals must be made within 10 days after a final NDEP decision is made, except for certain decisions related to water pollution control (NRS 445A.690). We work with all parties to set a date for the hearing.

2. We May Ask for Briefs

In many cases, we issue an order for briefs in preparation for the hearing. Briefs, submitted on an agreed schedule, help delineate the issues surrounding the case and facilitate a more focused appeal hearing.

3. We Hold a Hearing

Each party makes a case, which may include opening statements, testimony (given under oath), cross examination, and exhibits (evidence). In most cases, parties to the appeal are represented by an attorney.

4. We Rule on the Appeal

After each party has made its case and arguments are over, we openly discuss the case. We then rule by motion to uphold, modify, or revert the decision being contested. We may also take the case under submission and notify the parties 30 days after the hearing of our findings and recommendations.

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More About Appeals

• Recent appeal hearings
• SEC rules of practice
• SEC Information Packet

Relevant Laws and Regulations:

• Nevada Administrative Procedures Act (NRS 233B)
• Appeals to Commission: Notice of appeal (NRS 445B.340)
• Appeals to Commission: Appealable matters; action by Commission (NRS 445A.605)
• Appeal of final decision of State Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (NAC 459.9995)
• Appeal of final decision of Department: Request for hearing; basis for appeal (NAC 445B.890)
• Appeal of final decision of State Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (NAC 444.980)
• Appeals to Commission (NAC 519A.415)