Unplanned Land Use in Lebanon: Challenges and Strategies for Sustainable Territorial Planning

Abstract

Land use planning represents a fundamental instrument for guiding sustainable territorial development and ensuring the efficient management of land resources. In Lebanon, however, spatial development has been characterized by extensive areas of unplanned land use, fragmented governance structures, and weak regulatory enforcement. This study examines the current status of land use planning in Lebanon and analyzes the institutional, economic, and socio-environmental factors contributing to the persistence of unplanned land development.
The research adopts a qualitative analytical methodology based on literature review, policy analysis, and spatial assessment of planning frameworks, with particular attention to the National Physical Master Plan of the Lebanese Territory (SDATL). The study evaluates the distribution of planned and unplanned territories, examines the structural drivers influencing land use decisions, and analyzes the economic, social, and environmental implications of uncontrolled spatial development.
The findings indicate that a large proportion of Lebanese territory remains outside detailed planning frameworks, resulting in urban sprawl, inefficient infrastructure provision, environmental degradation, and increasing regional disparities. Institutional fragmentation, political influence, real estate speculation, demographic pressures, and limitations within land administration systems are identified as key drivers of unplanned land development.
The study concludes that improving land use governance in Lebanon requires strengthening planning institutions, expanding the coverage of urban master plans, enhancing regulatory enforcement mechanisms, and integrating sustainability principles into territorial planning policies. The implementation of coordinated spatial planning strategies and participatory governance mechanisms can contribute to more balanced regional development and improved management of land resources.