Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act: industrial projects and commercial projects: tree removal and trimming.

Assembly Member Carrillo's legislation expands local oversight of western Joshua tree conservation by allowing cities to authorize tree removal for commercial and industrial development projects. The bill modifies the Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act's existing framework, which currently limits city authority to residential and public works projects.

The legislation establishes new parameters for tree removal permits, eliminating distinctions between dead and live specimens while maintaining mitigation requirements. Property owners within 100 feet of existing single-family homes may now obtain permits without fees when tree removal is necessary to meet defensible space requirements for fire safety.

For projects requiring mitigation, the bill maintains a tiered fee structure based on tree size and location. Properties near Joshua Tree National Park face higher fees - up to $2,500 per large tree compared to $1,000 in other areas. Cities receiving delegated authority must conduct annual population assessments using standardized methods and submit quarterly reports detailing permit activity and compliance. The Department of Fish and Wildlife retains power to revoke local authorization if conservation needs warrant stronger protections.

The Department must develop science-based protocols for successful tree relocation by July 2024, including requirements for proper timing, orientation, and oversight by desert native plant specialists. While property owners bear responsibility for relocated trees' survival, landowners accepting relocated specimens face no ongoing maintenance obligations if they provide written agreement.