For purposes of this chapter, the following definitions apply:

(a) “Accessory structure” means a subordinate structure, the use of which is incidental to an existing or contemporaneously constructed single-family residence, including, an accessory dwelling unit, addition to an existing single-family residence, garage, carport, swimming pool, patio, greenhouse, storage shed, gazebo, septic tank, sewer connection, solar panels, fence, or gravel or paved driveway.

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(b) “California Endangered Species Act” means the act established pursuant to Chapter 1.5 (commencing with Section 2050) of Division 3.

(c) “Conserve” or “conservation” means to use, and the use of, methods and procedures that are necessary to bring species listed pursuant to Chapter 1.5 (commencing with Section 2050) of Division 3 to the point at which the measures provided pursuant to Chapter 1.5 (commencing with Section 2050) of Division 3 are no longer necessary, and for species that are not listed to maintain or enhance the condition of the species so that listing will not become necessary.

(d) “Dead western Joshua tree” means a western Joshua tree that meets at least one of the following criteria:

(1) Has not burned and has no green leaves, no new growth on the main stem, and no basal sprouts.

(2) Has partially or fully burned at least 18 months prior and otherwise satisfies paragraph (1).

(3) Has fallen and is completely detached from its roots or has fallen and its roots are no longer in contact with the soil.

(e) “Desert native plant specialist” means an arborist certified by the International Society of Arborists, or an individual with at least five years of professional experience with relocation or restoration of native California desert vegetation.

(f) “Fee” means the elective fee described in subdivisions (d) and (e) of Section 1927.3, which is to be deposited into the fund.

(g) “Fund” means the Western Joshua Tree Conservation Fund as described in Section 1927.5.

(h) “Multifamily residence” means an apartment building, rowhouse, town house, condominium, or manufactured building that consists of two or more attached dwelling units designed for occupancy by two or more families living independently of one another.

(i) “Public works project” means a project involving the erection, construction, alteration, repair, or improvement of any public structure, building, road, or other public improvement of any kind.

(j) “Relocated” or “relocation” means the removal of a living western Joshua tree and a sufficient portion of its root mass from the ground and transplanting it.

(k) “Single-family residence” means a single detached building that has been, or will be, constructed and used as living facilities, including provisions for sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation, as required by the California Building Standards Code, for not more than one household.

(l) “Western Joshua tree” means Yucca brevifolia, an evergreen, tree-like plant that has been treated as a member of the asparagus family (Asparagaceae).

(Added by Stats. 2023, Ch. 51, Sec. 5. (SB 122) Effective July 10, 2023. Conditionally operative pursuant to Section 1927.2.)