Mansard Roofs in Istanbul: Latest Updates for 2026

Regulations allowing roof spaces in Istanbul to be used as independent homes are being closely followed by urban renewal projects. However, municipal council decisions, Ministry approval and current planning provisions must be assessed separately.

The use of roof spaces is one of the most discussed issues in Istanbul’s building renewal process. Independent attic apartments could affect project finances and the allocation of units between owners and contractors. The regulatory process initiated by Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality in 2025 and subsequent court decisions show that this is more than an architectural design choice.

How did the process begin?

Istanbul Metropolitan Municipal Council, by Decision No. 414 of 13 March 2025, approved the addition of roof-floor planning notes to current plans across Istanbul. District municipalities also worked on related implementation plans. On 10 May 2025, Avcılar Municipality announced that its council had approved a planning-note amendment intended to allow independent attic homes in new buildings.

Court proceedings came to the forefront in 2026

According to a statement published by the Istanbul Metropolitan Branch of the TMMOB Chamber of Architects, Istanbul’s 14th Administrative Court, in case No. 2025/1697, Decision No. 2026/281, annulled the citywide planning-note regulation on roof spaces.

The grounds reported by the Chamber included missing planning reports and technical analyses, as well as the application of identical conditions to different parts of Istanbul. Assessments based on the 2025 regulation therefore need to be considered alongside the current legal position.

What is the status of the new regulation?

Reports published in October 2026 state that the regulation, approved by Municipal Council Decision No. 706 of 17 July 2025, known as “Independent Roof Unit”, was submitted for Ministry approval on 21 August 2026. The same reports state that implementation will begin once the required approvals have been obtained and the regulation has entered into force following publication in the Official Gazette.

A regulation approved by the council should therefore not be treated as an unconditional, established entitlement in every district.

Does a mansard roof automatically mean a separate apartment entitlement?

A mansard roof design and permission to use the roof space as an independent home are separate matters. Municipal planning documents distinguish between attic rooms, independent units and common areas. Permission to design a mansard roof should not be interpreted as an automatic entitlement to a separately titled apartment.

Tekin Proje’s advice to property owners

When comparing renewal proposals, ask which planning provision supports the assumed income from roof units. Have the plot’s current planning notes, municipal permit conditions and the project’s technical suitability reviewed together.

At Tekin Proje, we recommend establishing feasibility for each individual plot before including roof areas in allocation and cost calculations, and treating opportunities that are not yet confirmed as alternative scenarios.