This article is a result of an intensive study of literatures concerning urban growth management. It tries to examine the specific character of existing techniques for managing and controlling urban land growth and tries to match them to the Indonesian situation. The techniques can be categorized into two major types. Indonesian urban sprawl can be distinguished into two models. The physical, social, and historical backgrounds are responsible for this conditions. The urban-rural oriented strategy is highly recommended for managing and controlling urban land development on the outer islands.