Copenhagen maintains six-month local planning target

Copenhagen Municipality intends to maintain its current service goal of a maximum six-month waiting period for starting local planning processes, despite criticism from developers and landowners. Critics have cited unclear requirements, poor coordination between departments, and excessive waiting times as significant hurdles.

The municipal administration argues that seven process improvements are already underway to address these issues, including better prioritization and standardized provisions. While politicians could potentially reduce the waiting period to three months, officials warn this would require more staff and increase the risk of overcapacity. To strengthen the local planning area and reduce backlogs, the municipality plans to allocate 7.4 million DKK in 2026, with expected costs rising to 17.8 million DKK by 2028. An external analysis of the local planning area is expected in early 2027.