Harare Council Sets Record Straight On Viral Demolition Document
Harare City Council has moved to clarify confusion surrounding a document circulating on social media on the regularisation and demolition of illegal structures.
The council said the document being shared online is not a new report or recently issued demolition directive.
In a statement, the local authority said the document titled “Report on Regularisation and Demolitions of Illegal Structures in Harare” dates back to May 2025.
Also Read: City of Harare Breaks Silence on Leaked Demolition and Regularisation Report
Document Was an Internal Draft
Council said the document was an internal working paper prepared to support its regulatory and enforcement responsibilities.
It said the document’s renewed circulation does not mean it has recently introduced a new demolition programme.
“The aforementioned document was a preliminary internal working draft.
“Its appearance in the public domain at this stage remains premature, as it represents an administrative working paper formulated to facilitate the lawful regulation and enforcement objectives of the City,” council said.
The clarification comes amid renewed circulation of the document on social media, with some residents expressing concern over possible demolitions.
Enforcement Against Illegal Developments Continues
Despite distancing itself from the viral document, council warned that illegal land occupation and developments remain a major concern.
The local authority said it will carry out verification and enforcement activities involving illegal activities on council, State and privately owned land within Harare.
The exercise will be carried out in accordance with government directives and existing laws.
Council said the process would also follow due process and the provisions of the Regional, Town and Country Planning Act.
It added that relevant council and government policies would be followed during the enforcement process.
Post-2023 Developments Face Enforcement
Council also reiterated its position on properties eligible for regularisation.
It said the cut-off date under the Regularisation Framework remains 24 September 2023.
This means land invasions and illegal developments carried out after that date will not qualify for regularisation.
Council warned that enforcement action would be taken against developments falling outside the regularisation framework.
The local authority also urged residents to avoid acquiring land from unauthorised individuals.
It warned against illegally occupying council, State or privately owned land, saying appropriate action would be taken against those involved.
Residents Urged To Verify Land Information
Council has urged residents and property developers to obtain land-related information directly from its offices.
It said relying on documents circulating on social media could create confusion over the status of properties and developments.
Residents seeking clarification have been advised to approach the Housing Director’s Office, Director of Planning or the relevant District Offices.
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