Update Saturday 1st August 2009: KTLN has heard from a reliable source that fines for non-compliance (described below) have already been issued.

KTLN brings you an update on opening hours, and noise limits to be imposed, for restaurants, bars and similar establishments, following a decision made by the Belediye Board on 22nd July 2009.

For all the establishments defined below, situated within Kalkan town and contiguous areas, the Belediye Board decided as follows:

1. Lokanta and restaurants serving/not-serving alcohol, associations and club house buildings, music must stop by 0030 and they must close by 0200;
2. Coffee houses, wine houses (kiraathane), electronic game places, internet cafes etc., must close by 2400;
3. Cafe bars, bars, disco bars, outdoor cafes/night clubs (gazino), clubs, pubs etc that have an enclosed area can play music after 0030 within the legal limits for decibel level and must close by 0400.  

Live music, dance shows, other events, fireworks and other shows must not cause offence to nearby establishments.

These defined times and conditions will apply during this season (2009) in order to prevent the causing of offense.

The first official report (of a breach) will result in a fine of 2,000TL, the second offence under item 2559 of the Police Jurisdiction Law 6th para, final clause, will attract an additional fine of 4,000TL.  If there is a 3rd offence, as defined by the law, the establishment will be closed temporarily.  Any negative response will lead to legal proceedings.

Please regard this information and directive as a matter of priority.  

(End of announcement)

So, what is different from the rules announced back in May 2009?

The first category of establishments, including restaurants, can now play music until half past midnight (previously the limit was midnight).

For the second category, including coffee houses, there is no change.

For the third category, including bars and discos, the Belediye has stipulated that after 0030 music can be played in an enclosed area (i.e. indoors), and within legal sound limits.

There is an additional point about not causing offense to those nearby, and the level of punishment for breaches is also outlined.

It remains to be seen how these new local rulings will be monitored and enforced, however it seems as though the Belediye has listened to people who have been complaining about late night noise in Kalkan.

To see the earlier KTLN article on opening times, published on 15th May 2009, click on the following link: Restaurant and bar opening times May 2009