The problem is people often build homes far deep into these forests so actually deforesting the area would actually result in a massive amount of trees being cut down. Look at paradise, CA as an example.

And even with the current state of affairs, you can certainly find complaints already about PG&E "clearcutting" around their power lines.

That seems like a different problem though I can’t imagine there are so many people in California living in remote forests. I think the idea of cutting trees is a big no no regardless of whether it’s for net positive for environment or people.