maakuntakaavan

Maakuntakaava is a regional land-use plan in Finland, prepared by the regional council (maakuntaliitto) as part of the national land-use planning system established by the Maankäyttö- ja rakennuslaki (Land Use and Building Act). It provides a binding framework for land and water use across a region (maakunta) and guides municipalities in their detailed planning. The plan addresses long-term needs in housing and services, transportation networks, industry and business locations, nature conservation, protection of waterways, and cultural heritage, and it designates general areas for development, conservation, and infrastructure.

The maakuntakaava has binding effect within the region, and municipalities must ensure their own plans and zoning decisions conform to it. It sits above municipal plans (asemakaava and yleiskaava) and must be reconciled with the national land-use plan. The preparation process involves the Regional Council drafting the plan in consultation with municipalities, government authorities, stakeholders, and the public; it goes through a draft stage, public consultation, and adoption procedures, with potential appeal routes.

Relation to other planning levels: The regional maakuntakaava complements the national plan and shapes how municipalities implement zoning and development. It is reviewed and updated periodically, typically every 8–12 years, to reflect demographic trends, environmental protection needs, and changes to infrastructure. Examples of content include designation of a transport corridor, a large-scale residential or industrial development area, or a protected natural area.

Limitations: The maakuntakaava provides the framework for land use; it does not authorize private development by itself. Specific uses require municipal detailed plans and permits, provided they are consistent with the maakuntakaava.