[Jacquerie]

Are any of you familiar with "Conservation Easements" in FL?

As was explained to me, if a developer needs a permit from the state DEP, they may demand a conservation easement (CE)in exchange for the permit.

With a CE given to the state, the property owner forever gives up the right to develop a portion of his property. The slick thing is, title is still held by the owner, it is not eminent domain but the usual rights associated with clear title are given to the state.

I have been told that the amount of land given in CE is up to the bureaucrat one has to deal with. So much for the rule of law where we know what the rules are.

[patton]

I have no clue - we live in VA.

[PurpleMountains]

A conservation easement in Florida has nothing to do with eminent domain. It is a way to keep farm lands and natural habitats in a natural state while the value (and taxes) on nearby properties are being developed. It is voluntary and to the benefit of both the public and the landowner and his heirs. I can't see why a developer would ever trade a CE for a permit, because the CE would prevent development.