Harare has introduced a new set of planning rules aimed at curbing the uncontrolled spread of fuel stations across the capital. Under the updated policy, any new service station must be at least 1.5 kilometres from the next one, be built on a stand of no less than 2,000 square metres, and undergo environmental and regulatory checks before construction.
The measures were announced during a tour of Harare service stations by the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Energy and Power Development, chaired by Chinhoyi MP Leslie Mhangwa. Acting director of Urban Planning Samuel Nyabezi said the rules are designed to bring order, safety and public participation into the approval process.
Applicants will now be required to erect a billboard at the proposed site showing the plans and informing neighbours of their right to object. The council will also demand an Environmental Impact Assessment approved by the Environmental Management Agency and clearance from the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority before any building work starts.
For stations near residential areas, developers must maintain minimum separation distances between fuel installations and homes. Where a station shares a boundary with homes, specific boundary walls will be mandatory.
Nyabezi said all applications will be assessed on merit under the new guidelines, as councillors and MPs questioned why some existing stations were allowed too close to residential properties. The move comes amid growing concern over the rapid proliferation of fuel outlets, many in residential neighbourhoods.
The City of Harare expects the new rules to reduce risks associated with fuel storage and improve public safety, while giving residents a greater say in development decisions.