The Government has officially incorporated dozens of iTaukei villages into municipal boundaries across Fiji, following the publication of the Incorporation of iTaukei Villages By-laws 2025 in a gazette notice issued yesterday.
The new by-laws, made under section 125 of the Local Government Act 1972 and approved by the iTaukei Affairs Board and the Minister for Local Government, bring villages under the authority of municipal councils for service delivery, building standards, and compliance obligations.
Under the by-laws, incorporated villages must pay a municipal service fee determined by councils based on the number of households, the type of service provided, and the principle of fairness among ratepayers. Existing arrangements remain in force until new ones are set by councils.
The regulations also set minimum building standards for incorporated villages, covering structural safety, sanitation, ventilation, clean water access, and compliance with public health and planning requirements.
The by-laws also introduce enforcement measures. Any person constructing or altering a building without meeting minimum standards may face fines of up to $50 and an additional $10 for each day the breach continues.
Among the numerous inclusions around the country are:
-Ba Municipality: Nailaga, Nasolo, Votua
-Labasa Municipality: Nasekula
-Lami Municipality: Lami, Suvavou
-Lautoka Municipality: Lauwaki, Namoli, Saru
-Levuka Municipality: Levukavakaviti, Vagadaci, Vuma, Waitovu
-Nadi Municipality: Dratabu, Korovuto, Koroyaca, Nakavu, Namotomoto, Narewa, Natalau, Navoci, Nawaka, Saunaka, Sikituru, Vatutu, Yavusania
-Nasinu Municipality: Kalabu
-Nausori Municipality: Muana, Nadali, Nausori, Navuso, Verata, Vunisei
-Rakiraki Municipality: Navuavua, Navutulevu
-Savusavu Municipality: Savudrodro, Yaroi
-Sigatoka Municipality: Laselase, Lawai, Nasama, Nasigatoka, Nayawa, Volivoli, Vunavutu, Yavulo
-Suva Municipality: Tamavua
-Tavua Municipality: Nabuna, Tavualevu
The inclusion of the villagers under municipal councils also mean they will now be eligible to vote in the -up-coming municipal elections.
The by-laws came into effect on 27 November 2025.
