A permitting track of its own
The Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act (WJTCA) changed how projects in western Joshua tree habitat get built. Any project that could remove, trim or damage a western Joshua tree needs authorization from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the census, fee and relocation requirements add real time and cost if they are discovered late.
For projects in the Mojave Desert and other western Joshua tree range in California, we treat western Joshua tree compliance as its own workstream, coordinated with the rest of the MMRP.
How we help
1. Census coordination
Coordinate a tree census that follows current CDFW census instructions, so every tree is mapped and recorded the way the permit application requires.
2. Avoidance planning
Work with your design and construction teams to avoid trees where feasible, and make sure buffers and protective fencing show up on the drawings and in the field.
3. Take authorization support
Help prepare and track the WJTCA incidental take permit application (or CESA 2081 pathway), mitigation fee calculation and payment documentation.
4. Relocation & field compliance
Plan relocation where the permit requires it, brief crews through WEAP, and document that only authorized trees were affected.
Common questions
When should we start?
As early as site control. Census results can change the layout, and it is far cheaper to design around trees than to mitigate for them after the fact.
Does the conservation plan change anything?
The Fish and Game Commission approved the Western Joshua Tree Conservation Plan in 2025. Its practices and relocation guidelines can be written into permit conditions and local approvals, so expect agencies to reference it.
Can you work alongside our environmental consultant?
Yes. We often support the firm that prepared the EIR or holds the biological scope, handling field coordination, WEAP and compliance documentation.
Note: WJTCA requirements and fees are set and updated by CDFW and the Fish and Game Commission. We confirm current requirements for every project; this page is general information, not legal advice.
Western Joshua trees on or near your site?
Tell us the location and project stage and we’ll outline the permitting path.