What is Zoning? A Comprehensive Overview

Zoning refers to the regulations and planning strategies used to ensure the organized and sustainable development of cities, towns, and rural areas. It encompasses all elements from infrastructure to residential zones, green spaces to transportation routes.

Core Concepts in Zoning

• Zoning Plan: Maps that define areas designated for functions such as residential, commercial, and green spaces.
• Zoning Law: Legal framework governing urbanization and construction, outlined in Turkey by Law No. 3194.
• Land Use (Zoning): Specifies the intended use of different land areas.
• Zoning Status: A certificate that shows the development potential and permitted usage for a specific plot.

What Does Zoning Mean for a Plot?

If a plot has zoning status, it means construction is legally permitted there under the municipality’s zoning plans. Building permits cannot be obtained for unzoned land.

What Does It Mean to Zone a Land?

Zoning a land means preparing it in accordance with urban development plans, organizing roads, infrastructure, and allocating functional areas. It also refers to implementing the officially approved zoning plans by municipalities.

Why is a Zoning Plan Mandatory?

For all settlements with a population over 10,000, preparing a zoning plan is a legal requirement. However, even smaller areas may require zoning plans for reasons such as infrastructure planning, environmental protection, and the creation of social spaces.

Types of Zoning Plans

• Master Development Plan (1/5000): Outlines long-term, large-scale development strategies.
• Implementation Plan (1/1000): Details parcel-level construction regulations.
• Revised Zoning Plan: Modifies existing plans based on evolving needs.
• Conservation Zoning Plan: Designed for historically or environmentally protected areas.

Stages of Zoning Plan Preparation

1. Preliminary research and analysis
2. Design phase and proposal plans
3. Governmental review and public consultation
4. Municipal council approval
5. Public display and appeals
6. Finalization and execution

Zoning Implementation Process

• Subdivision Plan: Deals with parcel division and merging processes.
• Road and Infrastructure Works: Opening of roads and installation of infrastructure based on the plan.
• Permit Process: Construction permits are obtained once compliance is established.

Which Plots Qualify for Zoning Permits?

Generally, plots located within municipal boundaries in residential areas qualify for zoning. Agricultural lands, protected sites, and forest areas are typically non-zoned or have restricted development rights.

What is Zoning Increase and Density?

• Zoning Increase: Permits for more floors or units to be built.
• Density: The ratio of construction area per square meter. Higher density means more people and vehicles in the area.

Social and Economic Impacts of Zoning

• Community Life: Enhances livability by creating social spaces.
• Transportation: Reduces traffic problems with well-planned roads.
• Environment: Safeguards green areas and parks.
• Economy: Promotes employment and development via commercial zones.

Zoning and Urban Transformation

Zoning plans are essential in urban renewal projects, where old and unsafe buildings are demolished and rebuilt. Without zoning, such projects cannot commence.

Why Choose Yükselen Mimari?

With its expert team based in Antalya, Yükselen Mimari offers end-to-end consultancy in land surveys, zoning status analysis, project planning, and municipal approval processes. For successful urban planning, we provide the right information, accurate analysis, and professional process management.