(1) After providing notice and an opportunity for a public hearing, the department shall establish minor project categories of activities that are similar in nature, have minimal adverse environmental effects when performed separately, and will have only minimal cumulative adverse effects on the environment. The department may act upon an application received pursuant to section 32513 for an activity within a minor project category without providing notice pursuant to section 32514. A minor project category shall not be valid for more than 5 years, but may be reestablished. All other provisions of this part, except provisions applicable only to general permits, are applicable to a minor project.

  (2) The department, after notice and opportunity for a public hearing, shall issue general permits on a statewide basis or within a local unit of government for a category of activities if the department determines that the activities are similar in nature, will cause only minimal adverse environmental effects when performed separately, and will have only minimal cumulative adverse effects on the environment. A general permit shall be based on the requirements of this part and the rules promulgated under this part, and shall set forth the requirements and standards that shall apply to an activity authorized by the general permit. Before authorizing a specific project to proceed under a general permit, the department may provide notice pursuant to section 32514 but shall not hold a public hearing and shall not typically require a site inspection. A general permit shall not be valid for more than 5 years, but may be reissued.