In Finland, land use is planned in order to create good, functional and sustainable living environments.
Land use planning is also known as zoning.
Land use is planned on different levels.
Regional development plans are used to make large-scale decisions, such as the construction of highways.
General development plans distinguishes different land use areas from each other.
Urban area development plans dictate the specific regulations that concern construction and land use.
Land use planning is mostly done on the municipal and regional levels. Regular citizens have the opportunity to influence land use planning during various stages.
Key words: land use planning, land use, regional development plan, development plan, urban area development plan.