In October 2023, Turkey introduced the Touristic Residential Rental Regulation, also referred to as the Short-Term Residential Rental Regulation. This new framework establishes comprehensive guidelines for renting properties to locals or foreigners for a single period of up to 100 days. For property owners and real estate agents, understanding these regulations is essential to ensure compliance and avoid legal or financial penalties.

Purpose of the Regulation

The primary aim of the regulation is to:

• Create legal standards for properties rented for tourism purposes.
• Protect the rights of both property owners and tenants.
• Enhance the quality and reliability of accommodations.
• Ensure the tourism sector operates in an organized and transparent manner.

The regulation mandates property owners to obtain a Touristic Rental Permit, meet specific property requirements, and comply with the terms of lease agreements while providing regular notifications to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Steps to Obtain a Touristic Rental Permit

Obtaining a rental permit is a multi-step process that begins with an application submitted via Turkey's e-Government portal. The permit can be requested either by the property owner or by an authorized representative. Different documentation requirements apply based on whether the applicant is a Turkish citizen, a foreign national, or a corporate entity.

Required Documents for Permit Applications:

• For individual property owners:
  • A copy of a valid Turkish ID card, or for foreigners, a copy of the passport and foreign ID number or tax number.
  • Signature declaration, if not included in the ID or passport.
• For corporate property owners:
  • Tax ID number and trade registry or MERSIS number.
  • Representation documents for the authorized person, including a signature sample.
• For properties:
  • Updated title deed showing ownership rights.
  • Certificate of residential purpose for units without established condominium rights.

In cases of joint ownership, consent from all co-owners is required. In apartment buildings, a unanimous decision by all unit owners must be notarized to allow touristic rentals.

Property Standards for Touristic Rentals

To qualify for touristic rental permits, properties must meet specific standards:

• Basic requirements: A minimum of one bedroom, a bathroom, a living area, and a kitchen equipped with necessary utensils.
• Safety and utilities: Functional hot and cold water systems, natural gas, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and an emergency plan.
• Hygiene and maintenance: Clean, well-maintained furniture and adherence to hygiene standards.
• Occupancy limits: Maximum occupancy of two persons per bedroom, with a total cap of 12 persons per property.

Permit Certificate and Official Plaque

Once the application is approved, property owners will receive a certificate and an official plaque stamped by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The plaque, which includes the unique permit number and property address, must be displayed at the property entrance. Failure to do so can result in penalties.

Penalties and Administrative Sanctions

Non-compliance with the regulation may result in substantial fines:

• First violation: A penalty of 100,000₺ and a 15-day period to obtain a permit.
• Second violation: A penalty of 500,000₺ and another 15-day grace period.
• Third violation: A fine of 1,000,000₺ if the permit is still not obtained.

Additional penalties apply for:

• Operating without the required standards or failing to meet safety and hygiene requirements.
• Not returning payments to tenants in case of contract violations.
• Failing to display the official plaque, with fines starting at 100,000₺ for the first offense.

Responsibilities of Real Estate Offices and Travel Agencies

Real estate offices and travel agencies are also held accountable under the regulation. Agencies mediating unauthorized rentals face fines of 100,000₺ for each non-compliant lease agreement.

Permit Cancellation Reasons

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism may cancel a permit under certain conditions, including:

• Failure to meet property standards or comply with safety requirements.
• Inheriting a property without reapplying for the permit within 30 days.
• Violations of public order or morality within the rental property.

Property owners may voluntarily cancel their permit via the e-Government system if they no longer intend to offer touristic rentals.

Conclusion

The Touristic Residential Rental Regulation introduces a structured legal framework to enhance the tourism rental market in Turkey. By adhering to these guidelines, property owners and agents can contribute to a higher quality of service while protecting their investments and reputations.

For professional assistance with compliance or to explore rental opportunities, Riviera Homes is here to help you navigate these new requirements with ease.