Best Data Center & Digital Infrastructure Lawyers in Eskişehir

About Data Center & Digital Infrastructure Law in Eskişehir, Turkey

Eskişehir has rapidly advanced as a technological and industrial hub in recent years. With its strategic location, growing university population, and business-friendly environment, the city has become a focal point for digital infrastructure investments, including data centers. Data center and digital infrastructure law in Eskişehir is primarily shaped by Turkish national legislation, EU harmonization standards, and local regulatory practices tailored to the city’s unique characteristics. The law generally covers issues such as data protection, telecommunications, construction permits, zoning, labor, digital security, and service level agreements essential for operating and maintaining digital infrastructure.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Establishing, operating, or partnering in a data center or digital infrastructure project often involves navigating a complex web of legal requirements. You might need a specialized lawyer if you are:

• Building a new data center and require guidance on land use, construction permits, and environmental regulations
• Negotiating contracts for digital infrastructure development, partnerships, or service level agreements
• Handling issues related to data privacy, cybersecurity, data localization, or regulatory compliance
• Facing investigations or audits by local authorities such as the Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) or the Turkish Data Protection Authority (KVKK)
• Managing disputes arising from data center operations, including intellectual property claims or service disruptions
• Expanding or acquiring existing digital infrastructure assets in Eskişehir

Legal support ensures your project aligns with Turkish and local regulations, protects your investments, and helps prevent costly legal disputes or regulatory fines.

Local Laws Overview

In Eskişehir, the following legal frameworks are particularly important for data centers and digital infrastructure projects:

• Personal Data Protection Law (Law No. 6698): Regulates processing and protection of personal data
• Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) regulations: Oversee telecommunications infrastructure and service licensing
• Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change regulations: Impact construction, zoning, and environmental compliance for physical data center facilities
• Electronic Communications Law: Governs digital network operators and digital service providers
• Intellectual property, labor, and safety laws: Affect operations, staffing, and management
• Standards for data security, disaster recovery, and data localization, especially for public sector or financial services data

Eskişehir’s local municipality may impose additional requirements on commercial zoning, utility connections, and emergency preparedness that can affect data center operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What permits are required to build a data center in Eskişehir?

Permits include construction and zoning permissions from the local municipality, environmental compliance, and sometimes telecommunications or energy infrastructure approvals depending on the project scope.

Are there specific data protection regulations I need to follow?

Yes, Turkey’s Personal Data Protection Law (KVKK) applies nationally and sets out rules for processing, storing, and transferring personal data, including requirements for data centers.

Who regulates digital infrastructure and telecommunications in Eskişehir?

The Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) is the primary regulatory body, supported by the local municipality and relevant ministries.

Is it mandatory to localize data in Turkey?

Certain sectors such as finance and public services must localize their data within Turkey. Other industries may have contractual or regulatory localization obligations.

What are the security requirements for data centers?

Security requirements include logical and physical security controls, access logs, disaster recovery plans, fire prevention systems, and compliance with relevant Turkish and international standards.

Can I partner with foreign investors for digital infrastructure projects in Eskişehir?

Yes, foreign investment is allowed but must comply with Turkish company laws, foreign investment regulations, and sector-specific rules.

How are disputes resolved in the digital infrastructure sector?

Disputes may be resolved through Turkish courts, arbitration, or mediation, often depending on parties’ contractual agreements.

What are the consequences of data breaches in Turkey?

Penalties for data breaches can include administrative fines, criminal liability, and business restrictions, depending on the severity and regulatory findings.

Are there incentives for investing in data centers in Eskişehir?

There may be investment incentives from the Turkish government and local authorities, especially for technological infrastructure supporting industry and employment.

What local factors can impact data center operations in Eskişehir?

Availability of reliable energy, skilled workforce, proximity to telecom networks, seismic activity, and local tax regulations can all influence operations.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or legal support, consider reaching out to:

• Eskişehir Chamber of Commerce: Offers guidance on business setup and local regulations
• Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK): Regulatory body for digital and telecom sectors
• Turkish Data Protection Authority (KVKK): Official body for data privacy and protection inquiries
• Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change: For construction and environmental permits
• Local law firms specializing in technology, telecommunications, or infrastructure law

Next Steps

If you are considering a data center or digital infrastructure project in Eskişehir, begin by identifying the scope and location of your venture. Consult with local legal professionals who specialize in technology and infrastructure law to ensure your plans comply with all national and local requirements. Gather required documentation for permits, assess regulatory obligations for data protection and digital security, and establish contracts that clearly define all parties’ responsibilities. Regularly monitor regulatory updates to ensure ongoing compliance and consider legal support for dispute resolution or regulatory inquiries should they arise.