I recall the 'ecological' people saying years ago that LA had no right to exist because it was a desert and had no local water, etc. I don't hear that much anymore. I just hear 'global warming.'
I read somewhere that when the Santa Ana winds are blowing the lack of fires is limited only by ignition sources. I.e. under a set of conditions fires are not a given.
I know nothing about prohibitions on removing bushes, trees, etc. Any sources?