Why Was the Regulation Introduced?
Turkey's light steel (LGSF — Light Gauge Steel Framing) construction sector has grown rapidly over the past 10 years. However, the sector faced a serious regulatory gap: until 2018, no Turkish-language regulation specific to light steel structures existed. Engineers performed calculations based on AISI S100 (American) and Eurocode 3 (European) standards.
The 2026 Light Steel Building Regulation, published in the Official Gazette under number 33256, introduced Turkey's first comprehensive regulation of its kind. The regulation was designed to work in full integration with TBDY 2018 (Turkish Building Earthquake Code).
The regulation took effect on its publication date; however, existing projects were given a compliance period until January 1, 2027. From this date onward, a compliant engineering report is mandatory for permit applications.
What Does the Regulation Bring?
1. Profile Standards
For the first time, strict limits were introduced for the galvanized steel profiles to be used. Mandatory requirements were set for minimum steel grade, zinc coating quality, and profile geometry. In practice, the most widely used C90, C100, C140, C200, and C250 series profiles can be evaluated within the scope of the regulation.
2. Seismic Calculation
This is the regulation's most critical clause. Light steel structures are now evaluated under TBDY 2018. Different seismic load reduction and stiffness values apply depending on the cladding system (OSB or gypsum board). Performing these calculations correctly is mandatory both for permitting and for structural safety.
3. Connection Calculation
Standard strength and safety factors were established for screws and connection elements. The connection detail of every project must be calculated separately.
4. Fire Resistance Calculation
This is the most important difference from previous practice: fire resistance calculation is now mandatory. The required fire resistance duration is determined according to the building's occupancy class, and appropriate protection measures must be shown in the report.
What Does This Mean for Project Owners?
Short answer: starting January 1, 2027, no permit will be issued by the municipality without a signed and sealed engineering report compliant with the regulation.
This means that projects built so far on "rule of thumb" or non-standard calculations will no longer be accepted. Correct profile selection and a comprehensive engineering calculation are now critical both as a legal requirement and for structural safety.
The regulation is not applied retroactively to existing structures. However, the new standard will apply to renovation, additional-floor, or reinforcement projects.
MefSteel Compliance Status
At MefSteel, we carry out all our projects in compliance with the 2026 Light Steel Regulation and TBDY 2018 requirements. We provide our customers with an engineering report stamped "2026 Regulation Compliant" that can be used during the permitting process. Calculation details are prepared on a project-by-project basis and included in the permit file.
A 2026-Compliant Engineering Report for Your Project
MefSteel engineers prepare your project in full compliance with the regulation. Free preliminary assessment for Tekirdağ and surrounding areas.
Request a Quote Now →Frequently Asked Questions
Which structures does the regulation cover?
All light steel framing systems built using galvanized thin steel profiles. This includes residential, office, education, and healthcare buildings. Heavy steel construction (HEA, IPE, etc.) is outside the scope of this regulation.
Does it affect existing buildings?
No, there is no retroactive application for existing structures. However, the new regulation will apply to renovation, additional-floor, or reinforcement projects.
What is required when obtaining a permit?
After January 1, 2027, a building permit application must include an engineering report documented as compliant with the 2026 Light Steel Regulation. MefSteel prepares this report for every project.
Are profiles manufactured abroad compliant?
Profiles that carry CE certification and meet the minimum coating requirement specified in the regulation can be used. In every case, calculations must be based on the values in the Turkish regulation.