A Master Plan for the entire city of Helsinki is prepared at approximately ten-year intervals. Owing to the changes taking place in society the master planning process is ongoing. The 2002 Master Plan was completed in 2005. Several component master plans and other designs are currently being prepared on the basis of this Master Plan. Master Plan-related design works will continue in the autumn of 2005 based on the land-use development scheme and Helsinki development plan.

According to the Building and Land Use Act the Master Plan is presented as a map that includes town planning symbols, regulations and a report. The City Council can approve the Master Plan as legally binding or not legally binding. A legally binding Master Plan map’s town planning symbols and regulations carry the force of law. The report accompanying the Master Plan is a supplementary appendix that justifies and explains the Master Plan.