Land use control along active faults

This paper deals with the policy-making to implement land use control measures along active faults for earthquake hazard mitigation by applying the process model in policy sciences. First, the relationship between the policy process and land use planning process was modeled in connection with the effects of scenario for earthquake hazard and public opinion on land use control. Second, the debate among active fault researchers was viewed as one of the main affecting factors to the process. Third, questionnaire survey was conducted to grasp and assess the attitude of residents in Sendai, northern Japan, where the active fault of Nagamachi-Rifu Line runs. Last, the amendment of Alquist-Prioro Act was reviewed as a typical case of policy evaluation and feedback. The identification of appropriate planning measures and provision of hazard information were specified as influential factors to alter the status of the policy formulation.