Law as a factor generating weakness in the spatial planning system: The case of Poland

This paper deals with the issue of the impact of legislation on the spatial planning system of a country. The case of Poland was chosen as it provides very wide material in this respect (due to the numerous weaknesses of the Polish spatial planning law diagnosed in the literature). Three key regulations were identified in relation to three spatial planning instruments at the local level: studies of spatial development conditions and directions, local spatial plans, and decisions on building conditions. It was determined what the weaknesses of these provisions are, and what wider impact they have on the application of individual spatial planning instruments and consequently on the entire spatial planning system. The issue of externalities of spatial management was additionally analysed. The results provided a basis for extending a more universal scientific discussion on the possible, especially negative, impact of legislation on spatial planning systems.