CA SB1063

Creates an exemption allowing the Department of Fish and Wildlife to issue permits for taking western Joshua trees without fees or mitigation when the removal relates to maintenance, operation, or construction of "life-sustaining services" including electricity, gas, water, sewer, telecom infrastructure, or wildfire hardening

Requires the Department to grant or deny these life-sustaining service permits within 30 days of request, or within 10 days if the request addresses a threat to health or safety

Permits issued under the life-sustaining service exemption allow 60 days to complete the authorized taking, with the Department having discretion to extend this period

Amends the Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act, which currently prohibits taking western Joshua trees except with permits requiring mitigation fees ranging from $150 to $2,500 per tree depending on size and location