The article examines the relationship between rapid population growth and the formation of systemic corruption in urban planning using the example of the Republic of Turkey. Based on an analysis of the legal and economic processes that have taken place in Turkey since the second half of the 20th century, the author identifies how urbanization caused by internal migration from rural areas to large cities influenced the formation of informal practices in housing construction. The article examines the legal mechanisms governing construction and land use, as well as the specifics of contracts between landowners and construction companies that have become the basis for "shadow" agreements. Attention is paid to the institutional weakness of local authorities and limited public control, which creates conditions for corrupt schemes when issuing construction permits and when putting facilities into operation. The emphasis has placed on the importance of reviewing urban planning policies and the regulatory framework, strengthening the legal responsibility of control subjects and introducing transparency tools.