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Administrative and Zoning Law

A municipality’s zoning plan, land readjustment, construction stop report, fine or demolition order is an administrative act. As a general rule, an annulment action can be filed before the administrative court within 60 days of notification, together with a request for stay of execution. Objections to zoning plans can be made during the one-month public display period. Those harmed by acts or actions of the administration can seek compensation through a full-remedy action.

Last updated: November 2026This page was prepared by our lawyers registered with the Istanbul Bar Association.

Scope of our work

Zoning plan disputes

From 1/100,000 environmental plans to 1/1,000 implementation plans and land readjustment, administrative objections are filed during the display period and annulment actions with requests for stay of execution are brought.

Administrative fines and sanctions

Construction stop reports issued for unlicensed or non-compliant buildings, fines imposed by municipal council decisions and demolition orders are reviewed for legality and annulment proceedings are started.

Full-remedy (compensation) actions

Claims are brought against public bodies for pecuniary and non-pecuniary damage arising from acts and actions of the administration, based on fault in service or strict liability.

How does the process work?

  1. We review the zoning status, the building file and the notified act.
  2. The situation, risks and options are reported in writing.
  3. Where necessary we apply to the authority first, then file suit in time.
  4. We attend expert examinations and follow appeal before the Council of State.

Deadlines to keep in mind

  • Annulment action against administrative acts: 60 days from notification (Administrative Procedure Law art. 7).
  • Objection to zoning plans: within the one-month display period (Zoning Law No. 3194 art. 8).
  • Full-remedy action: application to the administration within 1 year of learning of the damage and in any case within 5 years (art. 13).

Frequently asked questions

The municipality issued a demolition order. What can I do?

An annulment action can be filed before the administrative court within 60 days of notification, together with a request for stay of execution. Whether the building can be brought into conformity should also be assessed.

A zoning plan change affects my property. Can I object?

The plan is displayed at the municipality for one month, during which an objection can be filed. If the objection is rejected or the plan approved, an annulment action can be brought before the administrative court.

Relevant legislation

  • Zoning Law No. 3194 (in particular arts. 8, 18, 32, 42)
  • Administrative Procedure Law No. 2577, arts. 7, 12, 13
  • Planned Areas Zoning Regulation
  • Regulation on the Preparation of Spatial Plans

The information on this page is general and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different, and legislation and practice may change.

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