Development plan — definition, impact, objection
What is a development plan? The definition
Development plans are binding construction plans for certain parts of the municipal area. There is not always a development plan available, but existing plans are always binding for all citizens.
Development plans are also referred to as “construction plan” or “B-plan” and serve to ensure the desired urban development by determining the use of existing land and areas. The plan takes into account the needs of the population in terms of housing, jobs, culture, environmental protection, public transport and the preservation of architectural sites and landscapes. Usually drawn up on a scale of 1:500 or 1:1000, the development plan goes beyond more general regulations and enables more flexible development than the Building and Planning Act by allowing it to deviate from zone plans. The development plans can usually be downloaded from the municipality or city's website.
What does the development plan regulate?
A development plan specifies the land use plan and assigns structural uses to specific areas, such as a residential/mixed area or commercial/industrial area. Among other things, it regulates:
- Building dimensions and number of storeys: Requirements for the size and number of storeys.
- Social infrastructure: Rules for the provision of facilities such as schools and kindergartens.
- Traffic and infrastructure: Planning of transport connections and public transport.
- Environmental aspects and sustainability: Green space design and energy efficiency regulations.
- Monument protection and cultural heritage: Preservation of historic buildings and architectural style guidelines.
The development plan is a more detailed form of a municipality's zoning plan, which only covers a sub-area.
Who draws up a development plan?
Development plans are adopted in a legally binding manner by competent bodies such as municipal assemblies, the Grand Council or city councils for all citizens. These bodies also decide on special uses and amendments. Municipalities are often inspired by partner cities to implement cultural projects or support specific groups of citizens.
Right to appeal and to a referendum
Before the final approval, the development plan will be publicly interpreted for 30 days. Affected citizens can lodge an objection within this period if they do not agree with the stipulations. The objection should be justified and, where appropriate, supplemented by alternative proposals. The committee that proposed the plan decides on objections and is also responsible for changes. If the plan is approved despite objections, Switzerland has the right to a referendum.
What does a development plan mean for your building project?
If there is a development plan for your plot of land, you should familiarise yourself with it to plan your construction project. In addition to the requirements in your building area, designated protection zones and agricultural land are relevant, as the development plan bindingly specifies which land uses are permitted. If there are discrepancies, you may need to adjust your building plan to get approval.
Contact with the responsible body: If there are any uncertainties or discrepancies, you can contact the responsible body via a private enquiry or an interpellation. An interpellation is discussed publicly and is beneficial if the topic is of general interest. A development plan is a fundamental instrument of urban planning and significantly influences the structural development of a region by ensuring a structured and sustainable use of land.
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