ABSTRACT
In principle, there is a municipal planning monopoly in Sweden, and the planning system is therefore basically designed for the municipalities. All municipalities must have a comprehensive plan that covers their entire area of responsibility. Although the plan is not binding, it must be kept up to date. The detailed development plan is a legally binding, executive planning instrument – a legal agreement between the municipality, the public and landowners – that makes it possible for the intentions of the comprehensive plan to be implemented. Special area regulations are also binding, and this form of planning is used within limited areas to guarantee compliance with certain comprehensive plan goals. A property regulation plan may be used to facilitate implementation of the detailed development plan. For the planning of matters that are of mutual interest to several municipalities, the national government may appoint a regional planning body with the task of monitoring regional questions and providing basic planning data for municipalities and Government authorities.
