EN
The aim of the paper is to pinpoint criteria and key aspects that allow to compare national spatial planning systems. This identification was made on the basis of a critical analysis of the literature on the subject. It should be emphasised that the publications used in the process have been relatively rarely referred to in the Polish scientific discussion. Then, the issues identified were related to the problems of the Polish spatial planning system. An attempt was made to draw conclusions which the discussion on international classifications may lead to for the Polish system solutions.