(a) A local agency may establish an assessment district pursuant to Article 3.1 (commencing with Section 50060) of Chapter 1 of Part 1 of Division 1 of Title 5 of the Government Code for the improvement or maintenance of natural habitat, in a manner consistent with the policies and procedures of this code. Funds generated pursuant to this chapter may not be allocated to implement a plan without the approval of the owner of the land to be improved.
(b) A local agency may provide for the long-term maintenance of natural habitat pursuant to Section 50060.5 of the Government Code only pursuant to a plan for the conservation of natural habitat approved by the department.