kaavakirjasta

Kaavakirjasta refers to the written part of a Finnish municipality’s zoning plan, accompanying the planning map (asemakaavakartta). It forms the legal and descriptive core of the plan, outlining its background, objectives, and how the plan is to be applied. The kaavakirja is created and approved according to the Maankäyttö- ja rakennuslaki (the Land Use and Building Act) and is linked to the municipality’s master plan or detailed zoning plan.

Content and purpose: The kaavakirja describes land‑use designations (for example residential, commercial, public services, parks) and the building rights and restrictions that follow from the plan. It includes provisions on allowable building heights, floor area, setbacks, plot use, and any special restrictions (such as heritage protection, environmental considerations, or flood risk). It also sets planning principles, implementation measures, and procedures for handling exceptions or amendments. The kaavakirja serves as a guide for developers, property owners, and authorities when applying the zoning plan to real-world land use and construction.

Process and accessibility: The kaavakirja is adopted by the municipal council after public participation and official notices. Once approved, it becomes legally binding and is entered into the land-use and building register. The document is publicly accessible through the planning department and the municipality’s website, and it can be amended or appealed in accordance with statutory procedures.

Relationship to other documents: The kaavakirja complements the planning map and other planning documents, such as the yleiskaava (master plan) or other regional plans. Changes typically require formal procedures and follow-up updates to maintain coherence across the planning framework.