Pursuant to Fla. Const. Art. II, § 7,, and Florida Statutes § 380.05, it is the purpose of these rules to define the boundary of the Florida Keys Area of Critical State Concern and to provide principles for guiding development within the critical area in order to conserve and protect the natural, environmental, historical and economic resources, the scenic beauty, and the public facilities within the Area of Critical State Concern. It is the further purpose of these rules to provide a comprehensive plan and development regulations that will preserve water quality, provided for the optimum utilization of the limited water resources of the area, facilitate orderly and well-planned development, and protect the health, welfare, safety and quality of life of the residents of the state. To effectively and equitably accomplish such purposes these rules should be implemented by local governments through administrative processes consistent with the comprehensive plan. These processes shall be strengthened to the end that local government is able to achieve the purposes herein stated without the continuation of the designation of area of critical state concern. All existing rights of private property should be preserved in accordance with the constitution of the State of Florida and the United States.
Rulemaking Authority 380.05, 380.0552(1) FS. Law Implemented 380.05, 380.0552(1) FS. History-New 5-16-75, Formerly 22F-8.01, Amended 8-23-84, Formerly 27F-8.001.