As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires:

“Department” means the department of business, economic development, and tourism.

“Permit” means any license, permit, certificate, certification, approval, compliance schedule, or other similar document or decision pertaining to any regulatory or management program which is related to the protection, conservation, use of, or interference with the natural resources of land, air, or water in the State, and which is required prior to constructing or operating a project.

“Project” means any land or water use activity or any construction or operation which requires permits from one or more state agencies or permits from a state agency and a county or federal agency. Construction or operation of an activity may include, but need not be limited to housing, industrial, and commercial operations and developments.