About the Institute

About the Institute

The Institute for Physical Planning of the City of Zagreb is the leading professional institution responsible for physical planning activities within the City of Zagreb. Established by the City of Zagreb, the Institute provides expert support in shaping and managing urban development through the preparation, coordination and monitoring of physical planning documents, studies and development strategies.

The Institute's activities encompass the preparation and coordination of physical and urban plans, including city-wide and local planning documents, expert analyses, spatial development studies, and the maintenance and development of spatial information systems. Through these activities, the Institute contributes to the sustainable, balanced and high-quality development of the city.

An interdisciplinary team of architects, urban planners, geographers, transport engineers, civil engineers, landscape architects, foresters, agronomists, economists, legal experts and information specialists enables the Institute to address complex spatial challenges through an integrated and evidence-based approach.

The Institute continuously monitors spatial development processes, analyses urban trends, develops planning methodologies and supports decision-making through research, data management and geographic information systems (GIS). Particular emphasis is placed on sustainable development, climate resilience, green infrastructure, mobility, environmental protection and the preservation of spatial values.

Cooperation with city authorities, public institutions, professional organisations, academic partners and citizens represents an important part of the Institute's work. Through public consultations, workshops and participatory planning processes, the Institute promotes transparency and encourages active public involvement in shaping the future development of Zagreb.

What We Do

Our work includes the preparation of spatial and urban plans, spatial analysis, development of GIS and spatial information systems, and the provision of expert planning support for strategic decision-making.

The Institute is the only professional institution responsible for the preparation of the City of Zagreb’s highest-level spatial planning documents, including the Spatial Plan of the City of Zagreb and the General Urban Plan of Zagreb and the General Urban Plan of Sesvete. Through these plans, as well as Urban Development Plans for specific city areas, the Institute plays a key role in shaping the city’s spatial development and supporting major urban, infrastructure and regeneration projects.

The Institute continuously monitors spatial development trends and prepares reports, analyses and studies that support sustainable urban growth. Particular attention is given to green infrastructure, mobility, climate resilience, environmental protection and the quality of urban life.

Collaboration is an essential part of our work. We work closely with city authorities, public institutions, universities, professional organisations and citizens, promoting knowledge exchange and participatory planning processes.

The Institute also actively participates in European projects and international partnerships, contributing to the development of innovative planning approaches and the exchange of best practices in sustainable urban development. Through these activities, we help create a more resilient, inclusive and high-quality urban environment for present and future generations.

Organisational Structure

The Institute for Physical Planning of the City of Zagreb is organised into four specialised departments. Through interdisciplinary cooperation, the departments contribute to the balanced and sustainable development of the City of Zagreb.

Department for Physical and Urban Planning

The Department for Physical and Urban Planning is responsible for the preparation, coordination and monitoring of physical and urban planning documents, including spatial plan, general urban plans, urban development plans and planning studies.

Department for Spatial Analytics, Geographic Information System and Sustainable Planning

The Department provides expert support for spatial and urban planning through the management of spatial data, GIS platforms and specialised technical and environmental expertise. Its activities focus on integrating infrastructure, environmental and sustainability considerations into the planning process, while maintaining spatial databases and digital tools that support planning decisions.

Department for Cross-Sectoral Cooperation and Projects

The Department for Cross-Sectoral Cooperation and Projects promotes collaboration among public institutions, professional organisations and other stakeholders involved in urban development. The Department coordinates integrated planning activities and is responsible for the preparation, coordination and management of EU-funded projects and international cooperation initiatives.

Department for General Affairs

The Department for General Affairs provides legal, financial, administrative and organisational support for the Institute’s activities. It ensures the efficient functioning of the Institute and supports the implementation of its professional and operational responsibilities.

Cooperation and International Projects

Cooperation is an essential part of the Institute’s work. The Institute collaborates closely with the City of Zagreb and its offices, public authorities, professional associations, universities, research institutions and partner organisations in Croatia and abroad. Through knowledge exchange, professional workshops, conferences and joint initiatives, the Institute promotes innovative and sustainable approaches to urban development. Special attention is given to cooperation with educational and scientific institutions, and the exchange of expertise with planning organisations and cities facing similar development challenges.

The Institute has experience in the preparation and implementation of European Union-funded projects and actively participates in international cooperation initiatives related to spatial planning, urban development, sustainability and innovation. Participation in European programmes primarily serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, professional networking and capacity building. Through cooperation with cities, universities and research organisations across Europe, the Institute gains access to innovative planning practices, methodologies and tools, strengthening its expertise and supporting the continuous development of planning practice in the City of Zagreb.