Pentecostal Churches Told To Silence Noise As Govt Orders Soundproofing In New Noise Law

Government Orders Churches To Install Soundproofing As Zimbabwe Clamps Down On Noise From Pentecostals

In a dramatic move to restore quiet to its neighbourhoods, the Zimbabwean government has directly ordered all churches in residential areas to install soundproofing. This decisive action specifically targets the loud worship services often associated with Pentecostal and other charismatic congregations that have sparked countless noise complaints from residents.

The directive came from Shingirai Mushamba, the chief director of spatial planning and development. He stated the government is now enforcing strict measures to control disruptive noise emanating from places of worship. This forms a core part of a wider crackdown on urban disturbances that also includes a ban on new fuel stations in residential zones.

“Must Conduct Services In Enclosed, Soundproofed Buildings”

Speaking at a press conference, Mushamba left no room for ambiguity regarding the new requirements for churches. The rules mandate significant physical alterations to church buildings to prevent sound from escaping into the community.

“All places of worship operating in residential areas must conduct services in enclosed, soundproofed buildings,” Mr Mushamba said.

This order means churches will need to invest in acoustic insulation, sealed windows, and proper doors to contain the music, preaching, and fervent prayer that characterise their services. The regulation applies to all denominations but is seen as a direct response to long-standing grievances about the amplified sound from vibrant Pentecostal services disrupting daily life in suburbs across the country.

Enforcement To Involve Police And Quarterly Checks

The government has outlined a strict compliance regime to ensure that churches comply with the new soundproofing rule. Authorities plan to monitor the situation closely, moving beyond simple warnings to active enforcement.

Local councils have been tasked with overseeing the new regulation. They must submit mandatory quarterly compliance reports to the central government. Mushamba indicated that councils would not be acting alone in this endeavour.

Mr Mushamba said compliance would be monitored through mandatory quarterly reports, with enforcement supported by a whole-of-council approach involving the Zimbabwe Republic Police, where necessary.

This statement confirms that police assistance could be sought to enforce the order if churches fail to comply. The involvement of the Zimbabwe Republic Police signals the seriousness with which the government is treating the issue of noise pollution from religious institutions.

Part Of A Broader Urban Planning Shake-Up

The church soundproofing order is not an isolated decision. It coincides with a major suspension of all land-use change applications unless approved by a provincial officer. This is part of a review of a national moratorium from May 2025.

An expedited waiver process is set to begin on February 10, 2026. Furthermore, the government has made public notification mandatory for any proposed land-use changes. Councils must now use billboards, social media, and local radio to inform communities of potential developments.