For All Your Borehole Drilling Services Contact Us:
If you are interested in getting Expert advice on Borehole Drilling and Borehole Installation in Zimbabwe, we provide that information for FREE here at Borehole Experts Zimbabwe so please get in touch to discuss your project by calling or sending a WhatsApp message to +263 77 389 8979 or +263 78 864 2437 and +263 78 293 3586.
Borehole Regulations in Zimbabwe: Is Your Water Source Legally Compliant?
Written By:
Borehole Experts Zimbabwe | Topic: Groundwater Law
Alert: Government Crackdown on Unregistered Boreholes
In recent months, the Zimbabwean government has intensified its efforts to regulate and manage groundwater resources, particularly in the Upper Gwayi Sub-Catchment area of Matabeleland North. A stern warning has been issued to borehole owners who have not registered their installations with ZINWA.
We delve into the details of the government's new regulations, the implications for borehole owners, and the critical steps required for compliance to avoid legal penalties.
Why Registration is Mandatory
According to the Water Act (Chapter 20:24) and Statutory Instrument 206 of 2001, registration is not optional.
Failure to register is illegal. The Water Act stipulates that using water from a well or borehole without a permit is a direct violation of the law. Sub-catchment councils are mandated to issue these permits and maintain registers.
Sustainable Utilization: Registration allows authorities to monitor abstraction, preventing over-exploitation and maintaining aquifer health.
Equitable Use: It ensures that groundwater is shared fairly among all users in the catchment area.
The Notice & Consequences
A recent notice dated September 12 at the Mhlahlandlela Government Complex underscores the urgency.
NON-COMPLIANCE PENALTY
The Cost: Failure to register will result in legal penalties. Specifically, a non-compliance fee is charged per visit to the property if the owner fails to respond within seven days.
SECTION 118 VIOLATION
Legal Action: Section 118 of the Water Act outlines severe legal penalties for non-compliance, which can extend beyond fines to further legal action against the property owner.
How to Obtain Your Permit
For prospective borehole owners, obtaining the necessary permits is a critical step. Here is the process.
- Submission: Submit form GW1 to the sub-catchment council.
- Requirements: Include the appropriate fee, proof of land ownership, and a 1:50,000 scale topographical map showing boundaries.
- Hydro-Census: You must also provide a hydro-census of surrounding boreholes using form GW2.
Once drilled, you must apply for a groundwater abstraction permit using form GW4 (along with GW2). This permit legalizes the actual use of the water for agricultural, domestic, or mining purposes.
Importance of Professional Siting
Proper siting and drilling are crucial for compliance and success:
- Water Quality: Ensures the borehole is sited in an area free from contamination sources.
- Success Rate: Using professional hydrologists increases the chances of yielding sufficient water.
- Risk Management: Professional siting helps mitigate the inherent risks of drilling, bearing in mind there is no 100% guarantee of finding water.
Need Help with Compliance?
At Borehole Experts Zimbabwe, we are dedicated to keeping our clients informed. Contact us for guidance on registration, siting, and compliant drilling services.
Explore Solar, Borehole Systems and Water Solutions in Zimbabwe
Find the right system for your needs. Click any link below for detailed guides and pricing.
5kVA+ Solar Systems
Powers entire homes and pumps.
Borehole Drilling
Drilling and solar pump services.
Solar Panel Prices
See the latest panel costs in Zimbabwe.
Component Prices
View all panels, inverters and batteries.
Best Solar Companies
Find trusted installers in Zimbabwe.
Top Inverter Brands
Compare Deye, Sunsynk and more.
How Many Panels Needed?
A guide to solar system sizing.
Payment Plans
Affordable lay-bye options available.
For All Your Solar Systems and Borehole Drilling Services Contact Us:
If you are looking for a Drilling Company in Zimbabwe, look no further! We have been drilling boreholes all over the country for many years. Our team of experts knows what it takes to get your job done right. With our expertise and experience, we are confident that we will be able to find the perfect location where you want us to drill your water well. Contact us today so that one of our representatives can answer any questions you may have about borehole drilling or pump installation.
Get In Touch With Us: If you are interested in getting Expert advice on Borehole Drilling and Borehole Installation in Zimbabwe, we provide that information for FREE here at Borehole Experts Zimbabwe, so please get in touch to discuss your project by calling or sending a WhatsApp message to
Request A Quote:
If you have further questions, contact our friendly team today they will be more than happy to assist.
Business Office: No. 7 Frank Johnson Avenue, Eastlea, Harare, Zimbabwe.
Phone: +263 77 389 8979 or +263 78 864 2437 and +263 78 2_93 3586.
David (Borehole Sales)