Steven Burns

Background

About Steven Burns

I’m an experienced environmental attorney helping utilities and businesses navigate a rapidly changing world of energy delivery. I’m equally at home working with operations managers, regulatory staff, environmental consultants, and fellow attorneys. I try to foster inclusion and belonging in every space I’m in. Practice areas of focus include: • Coal ash and CCR • RCRA, CERCLA, solid and hazardous waste, and contamination management • Waterways and water resource projects • Corps of Engineers operations and regulation • Environmental justice compliance • DHS regulatory programs including CFATS and SAFETY Act • Wetlands • Endangered species and natural resources • Regulatory inspections • Legal privileges and protections for sensitive information — especially training non-lawyers on best practices for communications I began my career on Capitol Hill and attended law school at night. After earning my J.D, I spent five years at Van Ness Feldman, a highly regarded energy and environmental boutique firm in D.C. with a strong policy and lobbying practice. Those early years influenced how I think about the intersection of law, regulation, and public policy. Outside of work, I enjoy travel, food, fiction, music, and my family. I play golf poorly and hit the gym when I can. Go Vols!