State Mitigation Proximity Factor
When mitigation credits are not available within the same watershed as a proposed impact, Florida’s State Mitigation Proximity Factor provides a framework for using credits from outside the service area, with defined multipliers that reflect both proximity and ecological alignment.
This page summarizes how the proximity factor applies under state mitigation rules and offers practical guidance for navigating constrained basins.
Utilizing Out-of-Service Area Mitigation Credits in Florida
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A “Out of Service Area Certificate” is required by the agency that is permitting the project. Verification is required from every mitigation bank within the same basin/service area as the impacted property, confirming that mitigation credits within the mitigation service area are currently not available.
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Only after this documentation is accepted can out-of-basin mitigation be considered by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) or Water Management District (WMD).
State Proximity Multipliers
Once a credit deficiency is confirmed, Florida’s proximity factor applies the following standard multipliers:
- 1.2 multiplier for in-kind credits from an adjacent regional watershed
- +0.25 per additional regional watershed crossed
- +0.50 multiplier if the mitigation is out-of-kind
This ensures that any offsets provided still offer an equivalent or greater ecological benefit, even when sourced from outside the immediate basin.
For Assistance
At The Mitigation Banking Group, we help landowners, permit applicants, and consultants document credit deficiencies, understand the multiplier implications, and navigate both state and federal proximity requirements.
If you believe your project may qualify for out-of-service-area credit use, or if you’re evaluating which mitigation bank to work with, contact us for support.
victoria@mitigationbankinginc.com
407-808-2222
