By allowing the public to participate to their planning efforts, the communes hope to get a better understanding of prevalent public interests. This understanding helps them in finding better solutions, and to find a better balance between public and private interests. The Baugesetzbuch defines two levels of public participation:

At the first level of participation, the citizens are informed as early as possible about the general goals of a specific plan, about the viable alternatives, and about the effects that are to be expected. Usually, the plans are presented and discussed in public during a citizens' meeting.

Afterwards, during a four week period, the citizens get the opportunity to discuss the plan's objectives with the planner and to suggest improvements and changes, by phone or by mail. In the following weeks, the citizens also get the occasion to discuss the plan with members of the town's administration. All suggestions are considered by the planners.

At the second level of participation, the plans are published during one month, along with statements about substantial environmental issues. Again, the citizens can take voice their opinion about the plan. After this month, the administration prepares the statements and suggestions of the public to present them to the city council.