Analysis of the emergent theoretical, empirical, and planning policy studies of ‘temporary uses’ of derelict urban spaces in European cities illustrates three distinct realms where the concept of ‘creativity’ is defined and applied to urban management and redevelopment approaches: in terms of creative production, consumption of creativity, and creative governance. These concepts mesh together with a liberalization of urban planning and governance. Creative planning for temporary use suggests not just reducing the regulation of urban activity and built form, but transforming the aims and methods of planning itself to be more dynamic and more facilitative.