FLORIDA PLANNING A publication of the Florida Chapter of the American Planning Association
THE LEGAL ISSUE - SUMMER 2026
florida.planning.org
By: Kyle Dost, AICP; Dr. Cleary Larkin, AIA; Dr. Kathryn Frank; Dr. Nicholas Serrano.
THE LEGAL ISSUE
From constitutionally sound approvals and legally defensible land-use decisions to mastering competent, substantial evidence, quasi-judicial hearings, and the evolving law of wireless facilities, this issue delivers the legal insights every planner needs to stay ahead and out of court.
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
5
Building a Legally Defensible Record: A Planner’s Role Before, During, and After the Hearing
6
2026 APA Florida Statewide Election Underway
8
Avoiding Unconstitutional Exactions: What Planners Need to Know About Conditions of Approval
10
Expert Testimony That Holds Up in Court: Ten Rules for Quasi-Judicial Hearings
12
Competent Substantial Evidence Explained: A Practical Guide for Planners
14
The Planner as Expert Witness: Best Practices for Defensible Quasi-Judicial Hearings
16
The Laws Behind the Signal: Legal Landscape of Wireless Service Facilities
17
Planners as Authors
OTHER FEATURES President’s Message - p. 3 2026 Conference Update - p. 19 Executive Director Message - p. 23 Working for You - p. 24 Planners on the Move - p. 26 Consultants Directory - p. 28 Events - back page
The Florida Chapter of APA provides statewide leadership in the development of sustainable communities by advocating excellence in planning, providing professional development for its members, and working to protect and enhance the natural and built environments.