AB 1808: Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act: industrial projects and commercial projects: single-family residences: public works projects.

<p>The Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act is amended to allow the Department of Fish and Wildlife to delegate authority to cities for permitting the taking of western joshua trees associated with commercial and industrial projects. The bill also permits, without fees or mitigation, the removal or trimming of up to 10 western joshua trees by owners of existing single-family residences under specific conditions, such as proximity to structures or construction footprints. Additionally, it allows for the removal or trimming of up to 40 trees by proponents of public works projects aimed at repairing, rehabilitating, replacing, or maintaining existing structures. Property owners and project proponents must submit a request to the department within 60 days, which either results in permit issuance or denial based on compliance with requirements. The bill exempts these permits from the Califor…