Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Writer
THE City of Bulawayo has issued a warning to residents and developers to stop engaging in illegal construction activities that are not regularised as it intensifies efforts to restore order and enforce building regulations.
In a public notice, the local authority reminded citizens of their legal obligations under the Model Building By-Laws of Zimbabwe, noting that any construction work undertaken without formal approval constitutes a violation of the law.
“The City of Bulawayo would like to advise members of the public that in terms of the Model Building By-Laws of Zimbabwe Chapter 2 Section 5, no building work shall be undertaken without approval from the Local Authority,” read part of the notice.
The council has expressed concern over the increasing number of unapproved structures mushrooming across the city, which not only compromise the aesthetic and spatial planning of Bulawayo but also pose safety and environmental risks.
“It has been noted that illegal building activities are on the rise and as such, anyone found conducting construction works without approval will be penalised US$575.”
The warning comes as part of a broader campaign by the municipality to enforce urban development standards and safeguard public safety.
Authorities have reiterated that proper procedures must be followed, starting with the submission of professionally drawn building plans.
According to council, all prospective builders are required to engage qualified architects to prepare their construction plans, which must be submitted at the designated office for assessment.
“Anyone who intends to build should submit building plans drawn by a competent architect. Plans are to be submitted at the ‘Plans Desk’ at Revenue Hall upon payment of prescribed fees.”
The move is expected to clamp down on rogue developers who bypass established procedures, leading to the erection of illegal structures, some of which end up being demolished at the expense of residents.
The local authority has urged residents to comply with building regulations and warned that continued defiance will attract legal and financial consequences.
Meanwhile, the local authority has resolved to issue an Enforcement Order in terms of Section 32 of Regional Town and Country Planning Act of 1996, and a Prohibition Order in terms of Section 34 of the same Act to a property owner in Hillside who has been operating a car wash, bar, shop and restaurant illegally.
According to the latest council report, the illegal developments were being run by Muna Abu Dzinotyiwei at Stand number 80 Napier lease (also known as 69 Percy Avenue).
“These developments were on land owned and run by Muna Abu Dzinotyiwei. Two letters were sent to the owner of the property, one dated 13 September 2024 and the other on 30 October 2024. The matter was taken up with Muna Abu Dzinotyiwei, who undertook to remedy the situation immediately.
“The Property was zoned for residential purposes in terms of Local Plan 9 (Hillside Area) and the operation of a car wash was prohibited, retail shops were also prohibited in terms of the same Local Plan. A restaurant would be permitted provided that the owner sought permission from Council through the special consent procedure. This process (Special Consent) allowed for public consultation before council granted a Development Permit,” reads the latest council report.
The property owner was reportedly advised of this option (Special Consent) and had not complied, nor had they responded to the two letters written to her.
“She had not made any effort through her representative, who was taking care of the project and did not communicate her intentions or challenges with regards to complying with City Council requirements.
“At the time of writing this report (13 May, 2025) Muna Abu Dzinotyiwei had not responded and the offences were still continuing. Authority was therefore sought from Council to serve on Muna Abu Dzinotyiwei an Enforcement
Order in terms of Section 32 of the Regional Town and Country Planning Act of 1996 and a Prohibition Order in terms of Section 34 of the same Act to compel her to cease the operation of the illegal developments,” reads the report.
