House Bill 299 establishes a new section in Florida law called "Blue Ribbon Projects," which aims to promote sustainable development while conserving natural resources. A "blue ribbon project" is defined as a development that spans a minimum of 10,000 contiguous acres, with at least 60% designated as reserve area for environmental conservation. The development area can occupy up to 40% of the project, and it must include mixed-use, walkability features, and a maximum residential density of 12 units per gross acre. Additionally, at least 20% of the residential units must be affordable or classified as "missing middle housing." The bill allows for phased development and ensures that development rights are vested for a minimum of 50 years, with potential extensions.

To streamline the approval process, the bill requires a comprehensive "blue ribbon plan" for each project, detailing aspects such as water supply and transportation facilities. Local governments are limited in their ability to require amendments to comprehensive plans or zoning changes for project approval. Applications for blue ribbon projects must be administratively approved if local governments do not provide written comments within specified timeframes. The bill also introduces an appeal process for applicants whose projects are denied, allowing them to appeal to the Department of Commerce. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.