Developments of Regional Impacts (DRIs) are developments which, because of their character, magnitude, or location, are presumed to have a substantial effect upon the health, safety, or welfare of citizens of more than one county. The variety of projects that can fall under DRI status include large-scale planned developments, airport expansions, office and industrial parks, mining operations, and sports and entertainment facilities. Guidelines and standards for developments required to undergo DRI review are provided in Chapter 380, F.S.

The Directors of District Management heading DEP's six district offices serve as the Department's representatives to Florida's 11 Regional Planning Councils. Therefore, DRI reviews are coordinated at the district offices and comments are provided to the applicable regional planning council. The districts coordinate DRI reviews with all applicable DEP offices and programs.