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How to Legally Drill a Borehole in Zimbabwe (2025 Guide)

Estimated read time: 3 minutes

Quick Summary

  • Main Authority: Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA).
  • Key Requirement: You must have a permit from ZINWA before you start drilling.
  • Drilling Company: Must be registered with ZINWA.
  • Siting: A hydrogeological survey (siting) is essential to find the best spot.
  • Local Council: Check if your local council has any additional bylaws or requirements.

Drilling a borehole is a common way to secure a reliable water supply. However, it is a regulated activity to protect groundwater resources. You cannot simply hire a company and start drilling; you must get a permit first.

Step 1: Hydrogeological Survey (Siting)

This is the crucial first step to determine if and where you can drill.

  1. Hire a Geologist: Engage a qualified hydrogeologist to conduct a survey of your property.
  2. Purpose of Siting: The survey identifies the best location to drill to find water, estimates the potential depth, and helps avoid drilling a dry hole.
  3. Get a Report: The geologist will provide a report with coordinates for the recommended drilling spot. This report is required for your ZINWA application.

Step 2: Apply for a ZINWA Drilling Permit

You must get permission from ZINWA before any drilling begins.

  1. Visit a ZINWA Office: Go to your regional ZINWA office with your siting report and a copy of your property's title deed or proof of ownership.
  2. Complete Application Form: Fill out the official application form for a permit to drill a borehole.
  3. Pay the Fee: Pay the required application fee.
  4. Receive Permit: Once your application is approved, ZINWA will issue a drilling permit. This authorises a registered driller to proceed.

Step 3: Drilling and Registration

  1. Hire a Registered Driller: Choose a drilling company that is registered with ZINWA. Ask to see their registration certificate.
  2. Drilling: The company will drill at the location specified in your siting report and permit.
  3. Register the Borehole: After drilling is complete, you must register the new borehole with ZINWA. This involves providing details like the final depth and water yield. This is a legal requirement.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Drilling Without a Permit: This is illegal and can result in large fines and an order to decommission the borehole.
  • Using Unregistered Drillers: A driller not registered with ZINWA may not follow proper procedures, potentially damaging the aquifer or providing poor quality work.
  • Skipping the Siting Survey: Drilling without a proper survey is a huge gamble and the most common reason for spending thousands of dollars on a dry hole.
  • Not Testing the Water: After drilling, always get the water tested by a reputable lab to ensure it is safe for domestic use.

Pro Tip: Ensure Water Safety

Even after a good lab test, using a quality water filter jug for all your drinking water provides extra peace of mind. This popular model is a great choice for removing impurities and improving taste.