CA AB1954

Extends the inoperative date for the defensible space timber harvesting exemption from January 1, 2019 to January 1, 2022, allowing continued use of the exemption for an additional three years.

Removes the requirement for the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection to evaluate and report to the Legislature on the effects of the defensible space exemption.

Maintains the exemption for cutting or removing trees on private property in compliance with defensible space laws (Sections 4290 and 4291) within 300 feet of habitable structures.

Requires operations under the exemption to be conducted by a registered professional forester and comply with residual stocking standards, slash treatment requirements, and local land use regulations.

Allows surface fuels and logging slash to be removed within 45 days of timber operations commencing, with potential for local governments to assess costs for cleanup if not completed.