The procedure of naming streets and squares in the practice of functioning municipalities in Poland. Selected issues

Abstract

Objectives The aim of the work is to discuss selected issues related to administrative-legal activities concerning the naming of streets and squares in the practice of functioning of basic units of local government. The paper discusses basic concepts both in terms of statutory provisions, the achievements of doctrine, and case law. Legal foundations for naming streets and squares are discussed, along with the forms of procedures used in this regard. Material and methods The publication was based on the content of legal acts, scientific publications, and theses of administrative judiciary decisions. The predominantly utilized method was legal-comparative analysis. Results As a result of the conducted inquiry, it was determined that the material subject to the study appears heterogeneous, filled with vague concepts. The procedures used by municipalities for naming streets and squares are not uniform and are often organized in various ways. Conclusions The collected results allow us to conclude that there is a need for comprehensive and clear regulation of the issue by the legislator in the future. Leaving this matter with a high degree of organizational and legal freedom, especially with the increasing legal awareness and social assertiveness, will lead to further problems in the future. The proposed changes should mainly involve establishing statutory delegation to the municipal council for naming streets and squares, not only in constitutional provisions but also in substantive law. Additionally, the municipal council should be required by the executive body of the basic unit of local government to adopt principles and procedures for naming streets and squares, taking into account the significant social pluralism in this area.

Keywords

• municipality
• street name
• square name
• squares
• municipal council
• administrative procedure