The following points are frequently raised by motorists and are answered here for quick reference. For full understanding these notes should be read with the Big Sky Cubbyhole Notes and the online resources listed below. (The subject headings follow the sequence in the Cubbyhole Notes).
The starting point is there is no “new law”. Statutory Instrument 129 of 2015 – Road Traffic (Construction, Equipment and Use) Regulations has been in effect since December 2015, and as far as we are aware, has not been amended since.
We trust this information is useful in clearing any misunderstandings, however, feel free to email any questions to info@bigsky.co.zw.
Safe journeys,
Sean Q. and the Big Sky Team
The Big Sky Guide to Mastering the Traffic Jungle
January 2025
Vehicle Registration and Licensing
The Third Plate may be displayed on a side window. SI 43/2016 (issued 15 April, 2016) provides for placing on the “quarter glass or side window”, in addition to behind the windscreen.
Slight lifting of the Third Plate’s edges due to general wear and tear, and fading due to exposure to the elements, does not amount to “tampering” and the motorist should not accept a fine. Online resource: The Motorists Guide to the Third Plate, here https://bigsky.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/Big-Sky-The-Third-Number-Plate-Apr-25.pdf
ZINARA allows a one-month grace period after the vehicle license expires, during which motorists won’t face penalties. In contrast, ZRP penalises motorists from the first day after licence expiry, provided the vehicle is in use.
ZBC Listener's Licences
No car radio = No ZBC licence. Until such time as any changes are formalised through a Statutory Instrument, it is business as usual. As it stands, no car radio, no Listener’s Licence is required.
Vehicle Equipment
Online Resource: Vehicle Spotlights and LED Lightbars in Zimbabwe
A vehicle may legally be fitted with not more than two spotlights, subject to certain provisions. For more information, read our blog on the subject.
Vehicle Livery
All vehicle livery (reflectors, decals, etc.) is covered in SI 129/2015. There is NO reference in the statutory instrument to reflectors in doors being a legal requirement.
Emergency Equipment
Online Resource: Vehicle Emergency Equipment in Zimbabwe
The “Biscuit” Wheel: There is no reference to it being an offence to carry a ‘space saver’ spare wheel. Sect. 53(1)(a) of SI 129/2015 states the spare wheel must be serviceable, in the same way a fire extinguisher must be serviceable. If your spare wheel is inflated, has sufficient tread and is suitable for use, ZRP should accept it. ZRP’s own B-cars are fitted with “biscuit” tyres.
Fire Extinguishers: Our understanding of “serviceable” is the extinguishers must be refillable, and in good working order. There is no legislation we are aware of requiring the above units to be serviced, however regular servicing is recommended. To be professionally refilled when in the red, i.e. above or below pressure. Fire extinguishers supplied and serviced by Big Sky Supplies provide a 12-month service period.
Big Sky supplies and services fire extinguishers of all types and cylinder sizes.
- Drop off your fire extinguishers at Big Sky Supplies, Pomona Shopping Centre.
- The turnaround time varies however the extinguisher is typically available within a couple of days as we have increased the frequency of servicing.
- You will be issued an invoice which can be presented at ZRP checkpoints if necessary.
- US$ 5 for a service and US$ 8 for a refill if the extinguisher is below pressure (1kg DCP).
Enquiries to 078 078 8453 or email info@bigsky.co.zw
Carrying a fluorescent safety jacket is NOT mandatory for motorists but recommended for personal safety. However, the jacket is mandatory for pedal cyclists and motor cyclists at night, and must be SAZ approved.
Use of Roads and Vehicles
Overhanging Loads: If a vehicle’s load projects more than 600 mm beyond the back of a vehicle, during daylight hours (6:30am to 5:30pm) –a flag of bright red cloth, at least “600 millimetres square” must be attached at the extreme rear of the load. Big Sky supplies a 600mm x 600mm Loading Flag.
Traffic Fines
Online Resource: Understanding Traffic Fines in Zimbabwe
The maximum deposit fine a member of ZRP can legally impose at the roadside is a Level 3 fine. A fine higher than Level 3 can only be imposed by a magistrate after a court appearance.
The current relevant fines are: Level 1: US$5 (for this level of offence, ZRP typically issues a caution), Level 2: US$15 and Level 3: US$30
Download a copy of the Schedule of Deposit Fines (Traffic), 2024 from section 5 here: https://bigsky.co.zw/the-big-sky-guide-to-mastering-the-traffic-jungle/
The Form 265 which allows an offending motorist a period in which to pay an Admission of Guilt fine, has been withheld by ZRP for many years, despite it being a legal requirement.
4 Responses
A brilliant service to the community.
Well done!!
You are most welcome, Sir.
Thank you for your positive feedback.
Sean Q.
What is the position if one does not have cash to hand ?
Hello Robin,
The motorist without cash to pay a fine has a problem and typically will have to make a plan before being “released”.
The reintroduction of the Form 265 will resolve this problem. For more read https://bigsky.co.zw/understanding-traffic-fines-in-zimbabwe/
Kind regards,
Sean Q.