Promoting Safe, Quality and Resilient Construction

Welcome to the Building Standards section of the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning (DUAP).

This portal provides access to the building codes, standards, technical guidelines, and regulatory requirements that support safe, durable, and sustainable construction throughout Vanuatu.

Building standards play a vital role in protecting communities, ensuring that buildings are designed and constructed to meet minimum requirements for structural integrity, health and safety, accessibility, fire protection, and resilience to natural hazards. By establishing clear and consistent requirements, these standards help create a built environment that is safe, functional, and capable of supporting the long-term development of the nation.

As Vanuatu continues to grow and develop, adherence to building standards is essential for reducing risks associated with cyclones, earthquakes, flooding, volcanic activity, and other environmental challenges. These standards also promote quality construction practices, safeguard public welfare, and contribute to the creation of sustainable and resilient communities.

Whether you are a building practitioner, architect, engineer, contractor, developer, government official, homeowner, or student, this section provides the information and resources needed to understand and comply with Vanuatu's building requirements.

Managing Growth, Guiding Development

Welcome to the Zoning & Development Control Plan (ZDCP), a key planning tool used by the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning (DUAP) to guide and manage land use and development across designated planning areas in Vanuatu.

The Zoning & Development Control Plan establishes a clear framework for how land can be used and developed, ensuring that growth occurs in a coordinated, sustainable, and responsible manner. By identifying land use zones and setting development standards, the Plan helps create well-planned communities that support economic development, environmental protection, public safety, and community wellbeing.

The ZDCP provides guidance on a range of development matters, including land use zoning, building setbacks, site coverage, building heights, parking requirements, environmental considerations, and other development controls. These regulations help ensure that new developments are compatible with surrounding land uses, respect community character, and contribute positively to the urban and rural environment.

The Plan serves as an important resource for developers, landowners, investors, consultants, government agencies, and the public, providing transparency and certainty in the development assessment process. It also supports DUAP's commitment to promoting resilient, inclusive, and sustainable development throughout Vanuatu.

Guiding Sustainable Development Across Vanuatu

Welcome to the Planning Frameworks & Policies section of the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning (DUAP).

This portal provides access to the key planning frameworks, policies, strategies, codes, and development plans that guide land use, urban development, infrastructure planning, environmental management, and sustainable growth throughout Vanuatu.

Planning plays a critical role in shaping communities that are resilient, inclusive, economically vibrant, and environmentally sustainable. Through a coordinated planning system, DUAP works to ensure that development supports national priorities, protects natural and cultural assets, and enhances the quality of life for present and future generations.

The frameworks and policies available within this section establish the principles, objectives, and standards that inform planning decisions at national, provincial, municipal, and local levels. They provide guidance for government agencies, developers, investors, landowners, community leaders, and the public on how development can be planned and managed responsibly.

Whether you are seeking information on urban planning, building regulations, development controls, strategic plans, land-use policies, or special planning initiatives, this section serves as a central resource for understanding Vanuatu's planning framework and vision for sustainable development.