Law No. 165-VIII ZRK “On the special status of the city of Turkestan”.

This Law establishes the legal framework for the special status of Turkestan, emphasizing its significance as a spiritual, historical, cultural, tourist, and architectural heritage of Kazakhstan. It aims to create conditions for the city's development and functioning within this heritage context, prioritizing the preservation and protection of its cultural monuments and sites, including those on the UNESCO World Heritage List, such as the Mausoleum of Hoji Ahmed Yasaui. The legislation operates within the broader legal framework of the national laws and international treaties ratified by Kazakhstan, with international agreements taking precedence. Key measures include the delineation of Turkestan's territory, approval of its regional symbol, and the designation of its cultural and historical sites, with specific provisions for the protection, scientific study, and restoration of monuments. The Act mandates the development of urban planning regulations, construction codes, and the establishment of protected zones around significant sites, including restrictions on high-rise construction and alterations within designated buffer zones. It also emphasizes the importance of archaeological reserves, continuous monitoring of archaeological sites, and the regulation of activities that could threaten heritage integrity. The legislation assigns responsibilities to various authorities, including the President, local representative bodies, and executive agencies, to coordinate preservation efforts and international cooperation. Implementation mechanisms involve the approval of construction and design regulations by local authorities, development of infrastructure aligned with the city's heritage status, and adherence to procedures for archaeological preservation. Institutional responsibilities are clearly delineated, emphasizing coordination among government bodies, with a focus on safeguarding the city's cultural and historical assets through regulatory, procedural, and infrastructural measures.