About BOBY

Norsk BOBY (the Norwegian Housing and City Planning Association) is a nationwide, independent, and non-profit association dedicated to fostering discussions and networks that contribute to more climate-friendly, nature-friendly, and equitable urban and regional development. We welcome members from all sectors, including planners, politicians, developers, builders, residents, academics, and anyone with an interest in community planning.  Membership is available for individuals, organizations, businesses, local municipalities, and students.

The association is made up of a central Main Board and ten regional branches, alongside the thematic branch, HABITAT Norway. The Main board now is composed of a leader and up to nine board members. BOBY maintains close ties with the International Federation for Housing and Planning (IFHP), and board memebrs participate within the organization.

BOBY’s primary goals are to:

• Enhance Quality and Appreciation: BOBY strives for enhanced quality in and appreciation for community planning in Norway.

• Generate Awareness: We aim to generate awareness related to the challenges, goals, methods, and results of community planning, transcending political ideologies and professional boundaries.

• Encourage Debate: We actively encourage professional discussion and debate related to all areas and sectors of community planning. This encompasses housing, the built environment, transportation, planning law, economic development, regional development, and sustainable cities.

• Contribute to Planning Contribute to the shaping and forming of planning policies, and practices, aiming at influencing planning at the local, regional and national level.

• Inspire Norwegian Planning: Serve as a key source of inspiration and knowledge for Norwegian community planning.

• Provide a platform for discussion Host forums, seminars, and an annual conference to facilitate discussion.

• Double Membership BOBY and Habitat Norway offer joint and reciprocal membership.

Key Changes and Initiatives:

• New Governance Structure: BOBY has transitioned from a «Landsstyre» (National Board with representatives from all branches) to a «Hovedstyre» (Main Board) elected by the general assembly effective from April 23, 2024.

• Annual General Assembly: The General Assembly is now held annually, instead of every two years.

• Full and reciprocal membership BOBY and Habitat Norge now has full, reciprocal membership.