The Development Control Unit (DCU), in collaboration with ZIPA, issues building permits for a non-refundable fee of USD 1,000 (or its equivalent in Tanzanian Shillings). This permit remains valid for the grace period specified under the Zanzibar Investment Promotion and Protection Act (ZIPPA) for construction purposes.
To apply, investors must submit the following documents and drawings, prepared in compliance with the rules and conditions outlined in PART I and PART II below:
- A | Architectural Drawings
- B | Engineering/Structural Drawings
- C | Mechanical Service Drawings
- D | Optional Drawings
- E | Bill of Quantities (BOQ)
The permit fee must be paid directly to DCU via the designated bank account.
PART I: DRAWING RULES AND REQUIREMENTS
A | ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS
These must include:
1. Topographic Map
- Clearly marked plot boundaries with numbered beacons.
- Dimensions of all sides.
- Contour lines showing the terrain.
- Existing features (e.g., trees, paths, rivers).
- Standard title block with project details.
2. General Site Layout Plan
- Context plan (scale 1:2500) showing traffic flow, accessibility, and surrounding structures within a 500m radius.
- Orientation and placement of all structures, gardens, pools, and other site developments.
- Coastal plots must indicate the High-Water Mark (HWM) and adhere to setback requirements:
- 30m from HWM for sandy beaches.
- 10m for cliffs.
- 3m from non-coastal boundaries and 5m from road-facing boundaries.
3. Plans, Sections, and Elevations
- Detailed spatial designs of all structures, including roof plans and rainwater drainage.
- Drawings must be scaled at 1:50 or 1:100.
4. Architectural Details
- Detailed drawings of structural elements (e.g., roofs, doors, windows, foundations).
- Scale: 1:10 or 1:20.
B | ENGINEERING/STRUCTURAL DRAWINGS
These must include:
1. Plans, Sections, and Elevations
- Reinforcement layouts for beams, columns, slabs, and staircases (if concrete).
- Dimensions and joint details for timber or steel structures.
- Scale: 1:50.
2. Foundation Plans
- Reinforcement layouts (if applicable).
3. Bar Bending Schedules and Structural Calculations
- Detailed schedules for all reinforced concrete members.
- A booklet of structural design calculations.
4. Structural Details
- Complex structural elements and joint connections.
C | MECHANICAL SERVICE DRAWINGS
These must include:
1. Water Supply System
- Layout of fresh water piping, including pipe sizes, flow direction, and storage devices.
- Details of water towers or reinforced concrete storage structures.
2. Wastewater Disposal System
- Sewer layouts, inspection chambers, and treatment plants.
- Septic tanks and soak pits are discouraged for large projects.
3. Fire Hydrant Systems
- Escape routes, assembly points, and fire equipment layouts.
- Fire extinguishers, alarms, and emergency systems must be included.
4. Electrical Installation
- Indoor and outdoor electrical layouts.
D | OPTIONAL DRAWINGS
For additional structures like swimming pools or jetties, architectural and structural designs must be submitted.
E | BILL OF QUANTITIES (BOQ)
A comprehensive BOQ booklet detailing all materials required for construction must be provided.
PART II: APPLICATION PROCESS
1. Submit the following to ZIPA:
- Completed Building Permit Technical Form (issued by DCU).
- Ten (10) sets of project drawings (as per PART I).
- Five (5) BOQ booklets.
- Contractor details (name, contact information, and address).
- Two (2) copies of the land lease agreement.
- Two (2) copies of Environmental or Heritage Impact Assessment Certificates.
- Proof of payment for the permit fee.
- Passport-sized photos of all shareholders.
- Any additional supporting documents.
2. The DCU will review the application and issue the permit within 14 working days.
GENERAL NOTES
1. Thatched roofs are permitted only for public areas (e.g., lobbies, restaurants). Tiled roofs are recommended for aesthetic alignment with Zanzibar’s environment.
2. Building coverage must not exceed 45% of the total plot area unless specified in the land lease agreement.
3. Public-use projects must include facilities for disabled individuals.
4. All drawings must bear the official stamp of the Zanzibar Architects, Engineers, and Quantity Surveyors Registration Board.
5. Architectural drawings must be submitted on A3 paper size.
6. Construction must be carried out by registered contractors.
7. Permits must be renewed if construction does not commence within one year of issuance.
8. Extensions for incomplete projects beyond the grace period will require a renewal fee of 50% of the original permit fee.
This streamlined guide ensures compliance with Zanzibar’s building regulations while facilitating a smooth application process for investors.