The proposed amendments to Chapter 9J-5, F.A.C., pertaining to criteria for the review of local government comprehensive plans and plan amendments, modify the rules to comply with subsection 163.3177(11), F.S., regarding rural land stewardship areas. Specifically, the proposed amendments add Rule 9J-5.026, F.A.C. The purpose of Rule 9J-5.026, F.A.C., is to establish rules for designating a rural land stewardship area. It specifies the substantive compliance requirements for rural land stewardship area plan amendments and explains how the Department will determine the compliance of a rural land stewardship area plan amendment. These rules establish minimum criteria which may be exceeded by local governments.