Administrative and legal regulation of urban planning activities of local government bodies

The relevance of the chosen topic lies in the increasing delegation of both own and delegated powers to local government bodies in the field of urban planning activities. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive legal analysis of the urban planning activities of local government bodies and the impact of such activities on the state of the surrounding natural environment. The research utilised formal-logical, prognostic, and systemic-structural methods. The results obtained indicate that the urban planning activities of local government bodies comprise a set of actions and decisions undertaken by these bodies in prescribed forms using appropriate methods and legal instruments. The activities are aimed at coordinating the actions of participants in urban planning legal relations to create the most comfortable and convenient living environment for people. The effectiveness of urban planning activities by local government bodies largely depends on their ability to integrate ecological priorities into management processes at all stages of planning and project implementation. The conducted research confirms that the implementation of strategic environmental assessment (SEA) should not only ensure compliance with legislative requirements but also fulfil a predictive function in assessing risks to the environment and public health. In the current context of increasing anthropogenic pressure, urbanisation stress, and environmental challenges caused by the consequences of war, such assessment is a key element in ensuring the sustainable development of territories. It enables not only the minimisation of potential negative impacts of urban planning activities but also promotes the development of a responsible approach to natural resources by local authorities, developers, and the public. The findings of this study may be utilised in the development of legislative acts in the field of spatial and urban planning activities