Local dispute resolution has evolved in response to the need for effective ways to cope with the increasing numbers and types of local disputes. Where resources are limited, where the activities of individeuals or communities affect other individuals or communities, and where interests deviate or compete, disputes are likely to emerge. Efforts to resolve local disputes vary in their particulars but generally have certain elements in common. Therefore, this study focuses upon the fundamental directions and strategies for resolving local disputes. More specifically, the purpose of this study is to examine the causes of local disputes, to suggest fundamental directions for resolving local disputes, and then to explore the strategies for resovling local disputes. In the face of rising local disputes, planners need to become more aware of the possibilities for consensual dispute than one potential path to consensus. In spite of this variability, desirable strategies in local dispute resoultion processes can be identified.