Legislation to formalize protections for Florida’s state parks and place new limits on development within public conservation lands advanced Tuesday with unanimous approval from the House State Affairs Committee.

The measure outlines that state parks be managed primarily for conservation-based recreational use, with a focus on maintaining public access and preserving the environmental and historical integrity of the land.

The proposal would prohibit the Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Recreation and Parks from constructing or permitting sporting facilities such as golf courses, tennis courts, and pickleball courts in state parks. It would also bar the installation of lodging establishments defined under state law, including hotels and motels. However, it would authorize the development of small camping cabins, capped at six occupants per unit, provided such structures are consistent with approved land management plans and avoid disruption to sensitive natural or cultural areas.

The legislation follows heightened interest in the scope of permissible development in state parks. In 2024, the Department of Environmental Protection introduced a set of proposed updates to park management plans under a broader effort to increase access and recreational offerings. Elements of those proposals, which included expanded lodging and sports facilities at multiple state parks, drew significant attention and were ultimately withdrawn.

In addition to restricting certain types of development, the bill would expand public notice and input requirements tied to state land management decisions. Under the measure, public hearings would be required not only for new land management plans but also for any substantive updates to existing plans. Draft plans for parcels exceeding 160 acres or located in a state park would need to be made available online at least 30 days before a hearing.

Land management plans for state parks would also need to be developed with input from a designated advisory group that includes local officials, conservation stakeholders, agency representatives, and property owners. The group would be required to hold a public hearing and provide advance notice through local postings and advertisements.

The bill further directs the Department of Environmental Protection to submit a report to the Governor and Legislature by December 1, 2025, identifying state parks with amenities or areas closed due to infrastructure limitations, outlining recent expenditures, and estimating the cost to address maintenance backlogs across the park system.