San Bernardino County aligns with the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and California Fish and Game Code. Removing active nests of native birds is prohibited, especially during nesting season, and tree work near raptor or songbird nests requires biological survey clearance.
California Fish and Game Code sections 3503 and 3503.5 protect bird nests and raptor nests from take. The federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act covers most native species. SBC Land Use Services routinely conditions grading and tree-removal permits to require nesting-bird surveys between February and August. Joshua Tree, Mojave, and mountain habitats include sensitive species like California gnatcatcher and golden eagle. Violations are referred to CDFW and the US Fish and Wildlife Service for civil and criminal action.
Civil penalties under federal MBTA and state Fish and Game Code, plus county stop-work orders and permit revocation. Criminal charges may apply for raptor or eagle nest destruction.
See how San Bernardino County's bird protection rules stack up against other locations.
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