CA AB2544

Removes Department of Forestry and Fire Protection authority to purchase land for lookout sites or administrative purposes, replacing it with authority to enter into agreements, easements, licenses, or permits for fire protection, prevention, suppression, demonstration state forests, pest control, and related uses at fair market value.

Authorizes the department to lease real property acquired for forestry purposes for any compatible use, with lease terms not exceeding 5 years unless approved by the Legislature or Public Works Board.

Allows the department to issue temporary permits for ingress, egress, and movement across its lands for timber harvesting, studies, and equipment placement, with provisions for reasonable access fees and permit revocation at any time.

Permits the department to lease real or personal property for temporary fire station facilities, modular facilities, storage, warehouse, or office purposes when existing departmental facilities are inadequate, with Department of General Services consent.

Expands department authority to enter into contracts for telecommunications facilities in connection with fire prevention and extinguishment, and authorizes special use permits with the federal government for fire patrol system maintenance including staffing and facilities.