Online Reporter
Trust Freddy
Online Reporter
HARARE City Council has intensified its crackdown on non-compliant businesses, shutting down at least 121 out of 295 inspected operations, while 50 shops have been flagged for illegal partitioning on the second day of the blitz.
The 50 shops with illegal partitions were, however, given a three-day ultimatum to regularise their premises, as the City avoided a total shutdown after noticing widespread irregularities.
The operation dubbed, “CBD order restoration”, also resulted in 18 shops having their water disconnected.
Giving an update on Wednesday, chairperson of the Task Force leading the blitz, Mr Edgar Dzehonye, said: “Out of 295 businesses inspected, we closed 121 businesses and 18 were disconnected from water services.
“Of the 121 closed, 79 had no licenses, while 27 had expired licenses. Moreover, we realised that we could even find 20 operators in one building, operating separately without licenses, so we were simply closing.”
He also revealed that the majority of buildings were illegally partitioned, noting a non-compliance rate of over 60 percent regarding partitioning permits.
“In terms of subdivisions, we discovered that 50 buildings had no subdivision permits and only 30 had permits.
“To avert a complete shutdown, a three-day grace period was granted for regularisation to only those with illegal partitions and property owners will work with the council to ensure compliance, and any structures that don’t meet standards will be demolished in accordance with city by-laws to meet the original plan.”
The operation is targeting, among other things, businesses operating without current licenses, fire compliance certificates, certificates of operation, and approved building and partitioning plans.
Harare City Spokesperson, Mr Stanley Gama, on Tuesday warned all non-compliant businesses, saying the city will leave no stone unturned in cracking down on errant businesses.
“Today, the city launched a blitz closing down non-compliant businesses. In Rezende Street alone, they closed down 40 shops and one building. Ensure you get your business licences and fire complaint certificates.
“The city will not tolerate illegal partitions, developments. Make sure you have certificates of occupation, and ensure you are up to date with rates. Visit the City of Harare offices for more information on the by-laws that have to be complied with.”
The City of Harare Council also outlined several actions to address non-compliance among businesses and building owners.
For new buildings or those under construction without approved development permits, the council will halt developments, issue demolition orders, and require owners to regularise their properties.
Regarding illegal partitions and subdivisions, the council will impose penalties and enforcement orders, obliging owners to rectify the situation or face closure.
Businesses operating without a Certificate of Occupation will be penalised, and owners must obtain the necessary certification.
The city also warned that operating without a valid business license is illegal, and unlicensed businesses will be closed until owners submit formal applications, which will be processed within three days.
In addition, the city will also address overdue accounts, disconnecting services and recommending closure for businesses with outstanding rates payments (property tax, refuse, sewer, effluent, and water consumption) exceeding 30 days.
To ensure public safety, buildings non-compliant with emergency services (water hydrants and fire extinguishers) will be penalised and closed.
Online Reporter