“Do I need permission for this?” is one of the most frequently asked questions in renovation. The wrong answer can mean a halted site, a fine or work that has to be undone. This article separates what does and does not require a permit, and explains how the design process works.
What generally does not require a permit
Work that does not touch the load-bearing structure, the external appearance or the use of the property is usually treated as simple repair:
- Painting and decorating, satin gypsum
- Replacing floor coverings (parquet, tile)
- Renewing kitchen and bathroom units and sanitaryware
- Renewing services along existing routes
- Replacing internal doors
- Drywall suspended ceilings
Even for these, the building management should be informed, working hours respected and communal areas protected. See our guide to renovating in an apartment building.
What does require a permit or approval
- Work on load-bearing walls, columns, beams and shear walls
- Changes to the building’s exterior (enclosing a balcony, changing window sizes, facade cladding)
- Changing the use of a unit (residential to commercial)
- Adding a storey or converting a loft
- Combining or dividing units
- New buildings and major structural alterations
These require a municipal permit; work affecting communal areas and the facade also requires a decision by the owners’ meeting. Rules vary by local authority and by building, so confirm with the relevant municipality.
How do you identify a load-bearing wall?
The definitive answer is in the structural drawings. General clues: shear walls are reinforced concrete and will not take a nail; thick walls with a column running through them may be load-bearing; thin brick or aerated concrete walls are usually partitions. If in doubt, check the drawings or get an expert assessment before demolishing anything.
How the design process works
- As-built survey: the existing building is measured and drawn.
- Architectural design: the new layout and alterations are drawn.
- Structural assessment: where load-bearing elements are affected, a strengthening design is prepared.
- Municipal application: the permit application is submitted with the required documents.
- Permit and construction: work proceeds in accordance with the approved design.
- Detail drawings: for services, drywall and furniture.
On new-build projects, the ground survey, architectural, structural, mechanical and electrical designs and the permit process run as one — this is the first stage of turnkey construction.
Why starting with a design lowers cost
In a renovation without drawings, decisions get made on site — and every change means demolition and rebuilding. Measured drawings allow accurate material quantities, clarify the sequence and make coordination between trades far easier.
Demgirişim’s design and permits service covers as-built surveys, architectural design, detail drawings and permit follow-up, delivered by the same team that carries out the work.
Frequently asked questions
Do painting, flooring and a new kitchen need a permit?
Simple repairs and renovations that do not touch the load-bearing system or the building's external appearance, and do not change how the space is used, are generally not subject to permits. Even so, the building management should be informed and the management plan followed.
Can a load-bearing wall be removed?
Work on load-bearing elements (columns, beams, shear walls) should never be carried out without a structural strengthening design and a permit. Non-load-bearing partition walls can generally be removed.
What is an as-built survey?
It is the measured drawing of the existing building. It is the starting point for design changes, permit applications and accurate planning.
The initial consultation and written quote for Design & Permits are free within Istanbul. Scope, duration and cost are confirmed after the consultation.