Key concepts in land use planning
There are many different concepts and terms related to land use planning. On this page, we explain the most common ones.
Local detailed plan map
A local detailed plan map is a land use planning map that presents the regulations and designated land use functions, such as areas reserved for housing, recreation, or transport. It provides a clear visual representation of the plan’s content and serves as an essential tool for both land use planning and informed decision‑making.
Plan description
The plan description is a document that supplements the plan map and explains the objectives, solutions and impacts of the plan. It includes justifications for the content of the plan, such as the background to the area’s intended uses and planning solutions. The plan description helps to understand the impacts of the plan on the environment, society and the economy, among other things. The plan description is not a legally binding document.
Regional plan
The regional plan defines the broad outlines of land use. In addition, the regional plan coordinates national and regional land use objectives. The Uusimaa regional plan has been supplemented with phase plans focusing on different themes. The regional plan is prepared by the Uusimaa Regional Council and approved by the Regional Assembly. When interpreting the existing plan situation, all valid regional plans must be taken into account simultaneously.
General and partial local master plan
General and partial local master plans are general plans for land use and community development that guide local detailed planning. The general master plan is prepared and approved by the municipality.
Local detailed plan
The detailed plan guides local detailed land use and construction. The detailed plan determines building rights, land use, number of storeys and other detailed construction conditions. The detailed plan is prepared and approved by the municipality.
General plan
A general plan is a plan drawn up as a basis for discussion on land use, which can be used to gauge opinions and map out the constraints on planning. A general plan has no legal effect. The general plan is prepared and approved by the municipality.
Participation and assessment plan
The participation and assessment plan outlines the starting points for the planning project and the opportunities for interaction, schedule, objectives and impact assessment. All parties whose circumstances are significantly affected by the plan are involved.
Opinion and reminder
Feedback provided at the initial stage of the planning process regarding the participation and assessment plan and the draft plan is referred to as an opinion. A reminder is feedback provided at a later stage, i.e. during the proposal stage.
Response
In the context of land use planning, responses are prepared to address residents’ feedback on plan in a comprehensive and justified manner. Responses are written for both opinions and formal objections submitted regarding the plan. All responses are reviewed and approved by the Municipal Development Committee.
Building regulations
The building regulations provides regulations that supplement the local detailed plan as well as regulations concerning construction in areas outside the local detailed plan area. The Tuusula building regulations came into force on 17.10.2025. The building regulations are drawn up and approved by the municipality.
Derogation permit
Derogation permit is required when deviations are made from a plan or regulations. The permit may be granted for special reasons, for example to deviate from plan provisions or other regulations
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