CAL.Regulation
California creates single coordinated 60-day review for wildfire mitigation projects
Governor Gavin Newsom signed SB 1370 on September 29, 2026. New Public Resources Code sections 4240 and following direct the Natural Resources Agency, with CalEPA, to run a single consolidated review of covered wildfire mitigation projects such as fuel breaks, defensible space and prescribed fire. CEQA does not apply, and decisions are due within 60 calendar days of a complete application. Authority to issue expedited authorizations ends January 1, 2029.
Enrolled text (California Legislative Information) → · Office of the Governor
Key points
- Creates one coordinated state review for wildfire mitigation projects in place of sequential permits.California Legislative Information
- CEQA Division 13 does not apply; expedited authorization replaces state permits within the agencies' jurisdiction.California Legislative Information
- Agencies must decide within 60 calendar days of a complete application after at least 20 days of public comment.California Legislative Information
- Projects are size-limited, must finish within two years (five for prescribed fire); pesticide projects excluded.California Legislative Information
- Violations carry civil penalties up to $10,000 sought by the Attorney General or district attorneys.California Legislative Information
- Authority to issue expedited authorizations becomes inoperative January 1, 2029, and the chapter is repealed January 1, 2034.California Legislative Information
Sources2 articles across 2 outlets
California Legislative Information
Office of the Governor
Filed under
RegulationCal.SB 1370 — Wildfire Mitigation Coordinated ReviewAdministrativeEnergyEnvironmentalFor practitionersFor governance