Bebauungsplans

Bebauungsplans (B-Plan) are binding land-use plans used in German municipal planning to regulate how land within a defined area may be used and developed. They are part of the Baugesetzbuch (BauGB) and serve to implement spatial goals set out in higher-level plans, most notably the Flächennutzungsplan (FNP).

Content and scope

A B-Plan consists of a map (Lageplan) and a textual part (textliche Festsetzungen). The map fixes the use of land (for example residential, commercial, mixed-use, or open space) and sets building regulations such as height, density (geschossfläche oder Geschossflächenziffer), setbacks, parking requirements, and protections for green spaces or noise. The textual part may include prohibitions, exceptions, or special design requirements. The plan is legally binding for future development within its boundaries.

Procedure

The preparation and adoption of a B-Plan are carried out by the municipality. After a draft is prepared, it is publicly displayed and the public as well as authorities with public interest are involved (Früh- und Auslegung). After consideration of comments, the municipal council adopts the plan. It becomes legally binding upon publication and entry into the plan register. Citizens and affected parties may raise objections through legal remedies if they consider the plan unlawful or unjustified.

Relation to other plans

A B-Plan must align with higher-level planning objectives and the FNP. In case of conflict, the specific B-Plan provisions typically prevail over non-binding elements of the FNP. Types include general, binding projects (vorhabenbezogener Bebauungsplan), and sometimes mixed or special-use plans to address particular development projects.

Impact

B-Plans provide legal certainty for land development, ensure orderly growth, protect public interests, and guide infrastructure, housing, and urban design within a municipality.