• 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.