A proposal to allow single-family homes on some property zoned for agriculture is headed to Gov. Ron DeSantis.
The Republican-controlled House voted 90-20 on Wednesday on the measure (SB 686) that allows agricultural land bordered by development to be classified as an “Agricultural Enclave” and developed to the same density as the adjacent parcels.
“This bill is about protecting property rights and ensuring a fair and transparent process with landowners asking local governments for direction about their property,” said Bonita Springs Republican Rep. Adam Botana, the sponsor of the House version of the bill.
In voting against the measure, Orlando Democratic Rep. Anna Eskamani said the state has already “eroded a lot of local planning powers.”
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“It’s really important for us to work in partnership with local governments when it comes to their comprehensive plans and land use for responsible growth,” Eskamani said.
Friends of the Everglades has classified the proposal as “pro-sprawl,” limiting public review from the development-approval process.
A staff analysis of the proposal notes that developments submitted for the enclave property “must be treated as a conforming use, notwithstanding the local government’s comprehensive plan, future land use designation, or zoning.”
“If development affects an established wildlife corridor, local governments are encouraged to incorporate site design measures that maintain habitat permeability,” the analysis states.
The enclaves can only be used for single-family homes in counties with populations under 1.75 million.
Only Miami-Dade and Broward counties have more than 1.75 million residents, based on 2025 estimates from the University of Florida, Bureau of Economic and Business Research.
The Senate approved the measure in a 34-2 vote on Feb. 26.
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