The Chapter 373 rule quote does not apply to those activities previously exempt or permitted or those activities permitted under Chapter 161 of the Florida Statutes , Beach and Shore Preservation. Mitigation may be required to offset adverse impacts to wetlands Mitigation is an activity that a permittee undertakes to offset impacts to wetlands or surface water functions caused by alteration of these areas. Unacceptable secondary and cumulative impacts may also be addressed through mitigation. Impacts to uplands within the St. Johns River Water Management District's Riparian Habitat Protection Zones may also require mitigation. Mitigation is considered after practicable design modifications to reduce or eliminate impacts to wetlands or surface waters are explored.
Modifications are technically feasible.
No adverse impacts to public safety exist. The cost of modification compared to environmental benefits to be achieved is considered. Mitigation options may include restoring, enhancing or creating and preserving wetlands, surface waters or uplands or buying credits from a mitigation bank. The mitigation ratios vary and depend on the functions of the community to be impacted and the mitigation proposal. The difference between the range of ratios provided for mitigation types is based on the degree of improvement in ecological value expected from each type.