Definition and scope

Maritime spatial planning is about planning and regulating all human uses of the sea, while protecting marine ecosystems.

It focuses on marine waters under national jurisdiction and is concerned only with planning activities at sea.

It does not cover management of coastal zones or spatial planning of sea-land interface. For this, see Integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) (English only)

Objectives

Maritime spatial planning aims to balance frequently competing sector-based interests, so that:

• Marine space and resources are used efficiently and sustainably.
• Decisions can be taken based on sound data and in-depth knowledge of the sea.
• Investors have greater legal certainty, encouraging economic development.

There is fierce competition for marine space and the interests of different users need to be taken into account. For example, an off-shore wind farm could hamper navigation or fishing, unless its location is well planned.

Common principles approach

Maritime spatial planning remains a prerogative of individual EU countries. However, plans for shared seas should be compatible, to avoid conflicts and support cross-border cooperation and investments. Common principles agreed at EU level can ensure that national, regional and local maritime spatial plans are coherent.

Official documents

• Stakeholder consultation on MSP and ICZM [332 KB] All available translations. (Summary results)
• Commission communication on maritime spatial planning in the EU
  • Related brochure [279 KB] All available translations.
• Roadmap for maritime spatial planning in the EU

Go to the Maritime Forumfor further reading about:

• Background information
• Workshop or working group documents
• Events

Related content

• Projects:
  • MASPNOSE - Preparatory Action on Maritime Spatial Planning in the North Sea (2010-2012)
  • Plan Bothnia - Preparatory Action on Maritime Spatial Planning in the Bothnian Sea (2010 - 2012)
• Studies
• Recommended links