The Plumtree Town Council has officially banned all fishing in dams under its jurisdiction, following the approval of its new by-laws by Local Government minister, Daniel Garwe.
The ban is contained in the latest Statutory Instrument 139 of 2025, also known as the Plumtree Town (Fishing) By-laws 2025, approved under Section 229 of the Urban Councils Act.
The by-laws establish a formal permit system, outlining fishing seasons, tackle restrictions, and the registration of commercial aquaculture activities.
“No person shall fish in, or take fish from, a dam unless he or she has been granted written permission to do so by the council,” according to the new regulations.”
Individuals or associations wishing to fish must submit a separate written application for each dam, accompanied by a fee.
The council reserves the right to grant or refuse permission based on several factors, including a history of violating by-laws or permit conditions.
A granted permit will be valid for a specified period, and applicants must pay quarterly fees.
“If the council refuses to grant permission in terms of subsection, it shall, at the request of the applicant, inform the applicant of the reasons for the refusal, and the applicant may appeal in writing against the refusal,” read the by-laws,” the by-law reads.
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“On an appeal in terms of subsection (6), the council shall afford the applicant an opportunity to make representations, in writing, or orally as the council may determine; and may— (a) dismiss the appeal; (b) grant permission to the applicant in terms of subsection (3), subject to such terms and conditions as the council may specify.”
The council also holds the power to revoke permits if the holder disturbs the peace, damages flora and fauna, or breaches by-law conditions.
Before revocation, the permit holder will be notified and given a chance to present their case.
In consultation with the Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, the council can also declare specific closed seasons for fishing or for certain fish species via a public notice.
Fishing during a closed season will result in a fine.
“No person shall fish in any dam using any fishing-gear other than a rod and line or hand-line to which not more than three single hooks are attached, or not more than one conventional lure is attached, having not more than three single or three double or three treble hooks, or more than two rods at any one time, or use at any dam nets exceeding 2 000 metres in length,” the by law reads.
To enforce the new rules, police officers and authorised council employees are empowered to request individuals near a dam to provide their name, address, and proof of a valid fishing permit.
They can also inspect any fish, tackle, or equipment in a person’s possession.
Failure to comply with these requests is an offence punishable by a fine, as specified in the by-laws’ second schedule.
