English to Spanish Social Sciences General / Conversation / Greetings / Letters general

Hola! a qué se refiere con "planning permissions" en el siguiente contexto?

8-The French mayor in my story clearly enjoyed status and authority by virtue of his election and his delegated power. He had tax money at his disposal. He controlled planning permissions and the barter that implied. His ear was to the ground. He was present at the fair. He could lean on the relevant parents.

gracias!