Joshua Tree Permit Reform Bill Advances to California Senate

A bill authored by California Assembly Member Greg Wallis is moving forward in the state legislature after passing the State Assembly this week.

Assembly Bill 1663, also known as AB 1663, would create a fee-free permit process for homeowners who need to trim or remove Western Joshua Trees for safety concerns or routine property maintenance. The legislation now heads to the California State Senate for consideration.

Under the current Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act, homeowners can face the same permitting requirements and mitigation fees as commercial developers when removing or relocating protected trees. Officials say those costs can sometimes total hundreds or even thousands of dollars per tree.

Supporters of the bill argue the current system places an unfair burden on homeowners attempting to maintain safe properties, especially when trees create hazards near homes, driveways, sidewalks, or utility areas.

Wallis says the proposed legislation would preserve existing conservation protections for the species while creating a more practical and affordable process for residents managing trees on private residential property.

The Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act was signed into law to protect the native desert species from threats including climate change, wildfire, and development. The law established permit requirements and mitigation measures for activities that could damage or remove the trees.

If approved by the Senate and signed into law, AB 1663 would modify portions of that process specifically for homeowners seeking residential maintenance or safety-related work involving Western Joshua Trees.