Purpose: The purpose of the paper was to identify the process of spatial planning and highlight its role in sustainable urban development and restitution of urban agriculture. By reviewing French solutions in this area, an attempt was made to indicate the importance of urban agriculture in shaping sustainable development (SD) of metropolitan areas. Design/Methodology/Approach: In order to illuminate the phenomenon of urban strategic planning in the restitution and development of urban agriculture, a descriptive case study was adopted as the methodology of qualitative research, where the empirical basis consisted mainly of urban plans of two French cities, Paris and Lyon, as well as the subject literature and analysis of legislative acts. Findings: The French model of building coherence at the local level showed that only planning and a new generation strategic plan of a metropolis (SDAU/SCoT Scheme) can balance long-term objectives of development and protect natural resources for future generations. This model is characterised by not only innovative methodology of planning, but also innovative operational instruments and new ways of implementation. Practical Implications: Using own expertise and French experience in managing sustainable development of cities. Originality/value: Presenting European standards in planning sustainable development of cities and emphasising the importance of urban agriculture as a zone of a metropolis's natural balance.