Morocco Takes a Major Step in Urban Planning Reform

Morocco has reached a new milestone in reforming its urban planning and housing system. The House of Representatives has unanimously adopted, in its second reading, Bill No. 64.23, which establishes 12 Regional Agencies for Urban Planning and Housing. Alongside this, the legislature also approved Bill No. 32.21, which amends the legal framework governing subdivisions, housing groups, and public interest development operations.

One Agency in Each of the 12 Regions

The newly passed legislation mandates the establishment of a Regional Agency for Urban Planning and Housing in each of the Kingdom’s twelve regions. These public institutions will possess legal personality and financial autonomy, while also relying on provincial and prefectural representatives to ensure local service delivery.

According to Adib Benbrahim, the Secretary of State for Housing, this reform aligns with the implementation of advanced regionalization and responds to the Royal High Directives calling for a restructuring of territorial governance. It also incorporates recommendations from the National Dialogue on Urban Planning and Housing, as well as observations from the Court of Auditors regarding the evolving role of urban agencies.

Modernized Governance for Local Territories

The reform aims to unify urban planning and housing policies at the regional level, enhance coordination among various stakeholders, and improve the support provided for investment projects.

The new agencies will be tasked primarily with participating in territorial planning, supporting rural development, combating substandard housing, and improving the quality of services delivered to citizens and investors. The legislation also calls for modernized governance, characterized by strengthened boards of directors, clarified executive competencies, and established mechanisms for monitoring and evaluation.

Changes in Subdivision Regulations

In parallel, the deputies have adopted the bill amending legislation related to subdivisions and development operations.

This bill introduces several adjustments aimed at simplifying administrative procedures and securing the transfer of roadways, water, electricity, sewage networks, and green spaces to the communal public domain, taking into account the challenges related to land registration.

A Reform Designed to Support Investment

Through these two legislative measures, the government aims to make urban planning procedures more efficient, enhance the coordination of public policies, and create a more favorable environment for investments.

This reform marks a significant step in modernizing territorial governance and supporting the economic and urban development of the Kingdom.