Six properties in St. Johns County are pursuing certification under a new Florida law that allows agricultural landowners to bypass traditional zoning hurdles for residential development. The legislation, Senate Bill 686, took effect on July 1 and has already prompted applications for more than 4,000 acres of land near Nocatee.
One of the parcels in question sits behind Mickler’s Wharf in northern St. Johns County. Under the statute, once a property receives agricultural enclave certification, the county is prohibited from rejecting the project based on land use, zoning restrictions, or traffic impacts. This represents a significant shift from previous procedures, which typically required lengthy amendments to comprehensive plans or zoning changes.
Mike Roberson, the county’s growth management director, acknowledged that the state law removes local authority over these decisions. He noted that the rights granted through certification are permanent. County staff has 30 days to review each application before it proceeds to a public hearing before the Board of County Commissioners for a final decision.
Commissioners Krista Joseph and Ann Taylor have expressed strong opposition to the measure. Joseph stated she intends to request an outside attorney to file an injunction against the law at the next meeting. Taylor echoed this sentiment, stating the board must resist the state mandate rather than accept it passively.
Residents have also voiced concerns during recent commission meetings. One attendee highlighted existing traffic congestion in Ponte Vedra Beach as a primary worry, suggesting that additional development would exacerbate delays. Another community member urged the board to take action against the new regulations.
