Legalization of Informal Land Use and Buildings in Türkiye: A Strategic Action Plan Proposal

Abstract Informal settlements represent a persistent and multifaceted challenge in global urbanization. These communities often develop outside formal legal and planning frameworks, giving rise to critical concerns related to land tenure security, infrastructural inequality, and environmental vulnerability. While zoning amnesty policies have been introduced as temporary remedies, they frequently fail to address the root causes of informality and may unintentionally encourage further unregulated development. This paper examines Türkiye’s most recent zoning amnesty policy, highlighting its structural and functional shortcomings in fully integrating informal settlements into a sustainable urban system. Drawing on an in-depth case study of Uzungöl-an ecologically and culturally sensitive area that has undergone significant informal construction-the research evaluates the social, spatial, and environmental consequences of current legal frameworks and planning practices. In response to these findings, the study proposes a strategic and holistic legalization model that prioritizes resilience, spatial justice, and long-term urban sustainability. It emphasizes the use of digital geospatial technologies, participatory governance, and clear legal mechanisms to transition from reactive amnesties to proactive, rights-based urban planning. By offering practical policy recommendations and an international perspective on legalization frameworks, this study aims to serve as a reference for academics, policymakers, urban planners, and land management professionals.