New Edition Released: ARL Country Profile France

France’s spatial planning system is characterised by a strong multi-level governance structure, shaped by a long historical evolution from a highly centralised state administration towards increasing decentralisation and the growing role of local authorities.

The updated ARL Country Profile of France, authored by Univ.-Prof. Christophe Demazière, presents a concise overview of the country’s spatial planning and territorial development system within its constitutional and administrative framework.

The profile outlines the organisation of spatial planning across national, regional and local levels. At the national level, planning remains framed by state institutions and legal instruments, while regional and local authorities play an increasingly important role in implementation. This reflects the gradual decentralisation process initiated in the 1980s, alongside continued state involvement through deconcentration and regulatory oversight.

Particular attention is given to the development of spatial planning instruments and the emergence of a complex system of planning documents, including SCOT, PLU, PLUI, PLH, PDU and PCAET. These instruments structure land-use planning, housing, mobility and environmental policies, and are embedded in a hierarchical system of compatibility requirements across territorial levels.

The profile also highlights the historical evolution of French spatial planning since the post-Second World War period, marked by national planning policies, the establishment of DATAR in 1963, the promotion of balanced territorial development, and the gradual strengthening of intermunicipal cooperation. These developments are discussed in relation to current challenges of territorial cohesion, ecological transition and coordinated spatial development across metropolitan and overseas territories.

👉 Read the full Country Profile of France here