Functions

Perform the spatial, land use and human settlements planning functions of the national development planning system established under the National Development Planning Commission Act, 1994 (Act 479) and the National Development Planning (System) Act, 1994 (Act 480)

Prepare and provide for the technical human settlements planning component as may be required by the National Development Planning Commission for inclusion in the national development plans or infrastructure plan prepared by the Commission pursuant to Acts 479 and 480

Prescribe the format and content of the spatial development framework, structure plans and local plans

Provide directions, guidelines and manuals for spatial planning

Develop the capacities of the district assemblies and other institutions for effective performance of their spatial planning and human settlement management functions

Ensure efficiency in the development control function at national, regional and district levels through the decentralized governance structures

Ensure that the District Assemblies in collaboration with the development institutions perform site and service programmes for the purpose of development

Provide guidance on the requisite human and material resources for the performance of the spatial planning and physical development functions at all levels

Ensure the control of physical development in uncontrolled or less controlled but sensitive areas such as forest reserves, nature reserves, wildlife sanctuaries, green belts, coastal wetlands, water bodies, water catchment areas, mining areas, open spaces and public parks

Ensure that the exploitative use of natural resources for agriculture, mining, industry and other related activities do not adversely impact on human settlements

Collaborate with relevant agencies including the Environmental Protection Agency, the Minerals Commission and the Forestry Commission, to ensure adequate reclamation or eco-regeneration of natural resource areas which have been exploited

Oversee the implementation of approved policies regarding spatial planning and physical development within the country

Give guidance and monitor district assemblies and generally advise the Minister on policy options and implementation under the Act

Give directives and guidelines as appropriate on development control functions in conformity with the Act

Prepare national spatial development framework plan and evaluate regional and district spatial development framework to ensure conformity with the national spatial development framework and the requirements of the Act

Recommend relevant Regulations to be made by the Minister

Issue guidelines and regulatory notices to ensure compliance with this Act

Ensure a continual review, effective planning and management of human settlements and spatial planning policies

Facilitate improvement in the natural and built environment, and ultimately the quality of life for the population in rural and urban settlements

Ensure continued revision of spatial development framework, structure and local plans to guide the development of human settlements in Ghana

Encourage the private sector to partner the public sector in financing the development and management of human settlements and related physical development

Create a regime that enables district assemblies to acquire land in order to prevent or reverse depressed settlements

Establish spatial planning and land use database

Ensure the creation of appropriate zoning schemes and also prevent encroachments or breach of zoning schemes

Ensure the establishment of an inter-sectoral approach to decision making in spatial planning in accordance with the development objective of government to attain a coordinated approach to development

Perform any other function as may be directed by the Minister

Ensure that the land use plans prepared by the District Physical Planning Departments reflect the Medium Term Development Plans

Ensure the harmonization of spatial plans of the MMDAs

Lead the process of preparing Regional Spatial Development Frameworks

Monitor and ensure quality control of spatial and land use plans at the District level

Oversee operations of the districts without established physical planning offices or professional planners

Providing technical guidance for both public and private institutions and individuals