In the article the authors present the results of the study aimed at developing principles of forming a regional forecasting and planning system, as well as defining approaches to selecting criteria for this system. The approach to developing principles is presented consistently (from general scientific ones to taking into account specific provisions of the institution under consideration). As a result, the authors proposed two groups of principles: general and private. The conditions for forming criteria for the effectiveness of the system under consideration are defined, taking into account the target function. It is revealed that it is necessary to consider, first of all, a set of criteria due to the complexity and multifaceted nature of the land use system, as well as the presence of "six sides" of land use. In this regard, it is proposed to consider the criteria in two directions: qualitative and quantitative. In the first case, we can talk about the criteria of the parties to land use and about defining the integral criterion, in the second case, the specific achievement (fulfillment) of the main indicators established by the planning documents developed at the level of the constituent entity of the Russian Federation and the share of indicators falling within the confidence interval. Also, when developing criteria, it is necessary to take into account groups of effects: short-term and long-term. A threshold scale for assessing the relevant criteria is proposed.