Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Geography and Urban Planning, Faculty of Geography, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
2
PhD student, Department of Geography and Urban Planning, Faculty of Geography, University of Tehran. Tehran, Iran
3
Assistant Professor, Department of Geography and Urban Planning, Faculty of Humanities, University of Zanjan, Zanjan
4
M.A. Graduate, Department of Geography and Urban Planning, Faculty of Geography, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
10.22034/gp.2026.69775.3471
Abstract
Objective: A livable city, as a key component of sustainable urban development, relies on an efficient system of urban planning regulations. In Iran, despite the development of numerous documents and codes, a significant gap persists between theoretical goals and practical realization of livable cities. This study aims to examine the urban planning regulatory system in Isfahan metropolis and analyze its role in achieving urban livability indicators.
Methods: This applied research employs a descriptive–analytical approach. Data were collected through library studies and 30 questionnaires completed by urban planning experts. Livability indicators were organized into three dimensions: social, physical–environmental, and institutional–managerial. Statistical analyses including one-sample T-tests, Friedman tests, and Partial Least Squares (PLS) structural equation modeling were applied. Cronbach’s alpha was used to assess the reliability of indicators, all exceeding 0.7.
Results: Findings indicate that social and physical–environmental dimensions, such as social participation, sense of place, and green spaces, performed better than institutional–managerial aspects. In contrast, indicators like transparency, accountability, and equity scored low. Certain urban planning regulations, including zoning and façade design, positively influenced livability, while others, such as density aggregation and building height regulations, had negative effects, reflecting weaknesses in the coherence and flexibility of Isfahan’s regulatory system.
Conclusions: Achieving a livable city in Isfahan requires revising urban regulations with a localized, participatory, and transparent approach. In particular, shifting from a rule-based to a guideline- and performance-oriented model is essential to prioritize spatial quality and citizen satisfaction in urban decision-making. These findings align with previous studies in other Iranian cities and emphasize the need for transforming urban governance structures and strengthening the linkages among institutional, social, and physical dimensions to achieve sustainable livability.
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