Istanbul Plans Demolition of 4,141 Illegal Structures Along the Bosphorus

Istanbul Plans Demolition of 4,141 Illegal Structures Along the Bosphorus

Istanbul authorities are preparing to demolish more than 4,000 structures along the Bosphorus in some of the city’s most prestigious districts.

According to Turkish media reports, the Istanbul Municipality’s Bosphorus Urban Planning Directorate has identified 4,141 structures in Sarıyer, Beşiktaş, Üsküdar and Beykoz for demolition.

Demolitions Will Mainly Target Illegal Additions

The planned demolitions concern buildings and additional structures located on specific plots that have been classified as illegal or not compliant with the urban planning regulations applicable to the special Bosphorus zone.

The demolition campaign is therefore expected to be selective rather than involving entire buildings in most cases. Structures that may be removed include unauthorized extensions, verandas, garages and other additions that do not comply with the applicable regulations.

The planned work mainly concerns structures or additions considered illegal or non-compliant within the protected Bosphorus planning zone.

Sarıyer Has the Largest Number of Structures

The largest number of structures included in the list is located in Sarıyer, where 1,982 properties or structures have been identified.

In Beşiktaş, authorities have identified another 544 structures. Turkish media reports also say that some of the properties connected to the planned demolitions are associated with well-known artists, businesspeople and prominent Turkish business families.

Among the names mentioned in the reports is Hülya Avşar, a well-known Turkish actress, singer and television personality. Some structures are also reportedly linked to members of the Sabancı, Koç and Ulusoy business families.

Demolition Tender Scheduled for September 22

A tender for the demolition works is scheduled to take place on September 22, 2026.

Following the tender, the company that wins the contract is expected to begin the demolition of the structures included in the approved list.

What the Plans Mean for Bosphorus Properties

The planned demolitions are focused on structures that have been identified as illegal or inconsistent with the special urban planning rules governing the Bosphorus area.

As a result, the reported figure of 4,141 does not mean that 4,141 entire residential buildings or homes will necessarily be demolished. In many cases, the planned work concerns individual additions or structures attached to properties.

The upcoming tender on September 22 will determine the contractor responsible for carrying out the demolition works.