diff --git a/documentation/dev-manual/layers.rst b/documentation/dev-manual/layers.rst
index b7624cf0e..6d0e207fc 100644
--- a/documentation/dev-manual/layers.rst
+++ b/documentation/dev-manual/layers.rst
@@ -11,6 +11,12 @@ see the
 ":ref:`overview-manual/yp-intro:the yocto project layer model`"
 section in the Yocto Project Overview and Concepts Manual.

+Note well that to properly call the ``bitbake-layers`` command explained
+below, you must first initialize a build environment using your project's
+environment setup script. Without an initialized environment, your shell
+would not know where to find the command or your build configuration.
+
+
 Creating Your Own Layer
 =======================