How to Get a Building Permit?
by Nur Ceren Turhan - May 27, 2025A building permit is an official permission that must be obtained from the relevant municipality or authorized administration before the construction of a building or structure can begin. This document guarantees that the structure will be built in accordance with all legal regulations (Zoning Law, earthquake regulations, fire regulations, etc.) and approved projects.
Are building permits and construction permits the same thing?
Yes, these two terms are often used interchangeably and mean the same thing. Although its official name is "building permit", it is also commonly known as "construction permit" among the public.
How to Get a Building Permit?
The following steps are followed to get a building permit:
- Project Preparation: Documents such as architectural projects, static projects, electrical and mechanical installation projects prepared by the architect or engineer are completed.
- Application: Application is made to the relevant municipality or governor's office (depending on the zoning status) with the necessary documents.
- Review: The authorized administration reviews the projects and documents in terms of compliance with the zoning plans.
- Approval and Payment: If the application is approved, fees and taxes are paid.
- Obtaining a Permit: The building permit is issued after the documents are completed and payment is made.
If your building is within the borders of Antalya Turkey, you must pay attention to the provisions of the zoning regulations specific to Antalya in your permit applications. This is very important for the realization of your projects. As the best construction company in Antalya, we are with you with our professional team at every moment of the construction permit acquisition process with our housing projects we have created in the most prestigious regions of Antalya such as Altıntaş, Kepez, Lara, Aksu.
What are the Required Documents?
- Title deed, zoning status, application sketch, ground survey report
- Architectural and engineering projects
- Building inspection and site manager documents
- Powers of attorney and consents
Where to Get a Building Permit?
- In the municipality borders where the building is located, it is obtained from the relevant municipality,
- In metropolitan cities, it is obtained from the affiliated district municipality.
Who Issues the Building Permit?
The Planning and Urbanization Directorate or a similar unit of the relevant municipality has the authority to issue the permit after the examinations.
How Can I Inquire About a Building Permit?
The building permit query process can usually be done through the relevant units of the municipality that issued the permit, or it can be done online via the E-Government or E-Municipality system. There are also municipalities that offer the opportunity to query with title deed or parcel information.
What Happens If There Is No Building Permit?
Unlicensed or unlicensed construction has serious consequences:
- Demolition Decision: A demolition decision can be made for structures that are against the zoning legislation.
- Fine: Heavy fines are imposed on the owners or responsible parties of unlicensed structures.
- Legal Processes: The prosecutor's office can file a criminal complaint and file a lawsuit against unlicensed structures.
- Title Deed Problems: Occupancy permits cannot be obtained for unlicensed structures, which leads to problems in establishing condominiums at the land registry and in purchasing-selling transactions.
- Infrastructure Services: There may be difficulties in obtaining subscriptions such as electricity, water, natural gas or they may not be connected at all.
- Insurance Problems: Unlicensed buildings may not be covered by insurance or compensation cannot be received in the event of a possible damage.
- Life Safety Risks: Since unlicensed structures are generally unsupervised, they can pose risks to life and property safety.
Is there a solution for structures without a building permit?
Yes, in some cases, temporary or permanent legal status has been given to these structures with zoning amnesty applications issued by the state. For details, you can review our article titled 'What is Zoning Amnesty?'
The construction process and architectural project approval process require many stages to continue healthily. All these processes can be completed successfully with correct planning, legal compliance, and technical inspection. Working with professionals at every step not only reduces costs, but also increases the quality and safety of the structure. As Yükselen Mimari, we are with you at every moment of your architectural project and permit acquisition processes, we carry out each of our projects with the same meticulousness and awareness, and we continue to build the future with solid structures.