News
Multi-Agency Enforcement Action Conducted at Caicos Lodge
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 14 April 2026 —The Informal Settlements Unit (ISU), in coordination with the Planning
The operation was led by the Planning Department, with coordination by the ISU and support from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, the TCI Border Force, Pelican Energy TCI, and DevCon Power Supply. All agencies worked collaboratively to ensure the exercise was carried out in a safe, orderly, and controlled manner.
The enforcement action followed a structured and lawful process in accordance with the Physical Planning framework of the Turks and Caicos Islands. A total of fifty (50) unauthorized structures were removed during the exercise.
Section 45 Enforcement Notices were first issued on the affected parcels on December 11 2024, identifying unauthorized structures in illegal occupation. This was followed by the issuance of Warning Notices on March 26 2026, which clearly advised occupants that they were in breach of planning and land use regulations and provided a 14-day period to remove the structures voluntarily. Despite these notices and the time afforded for compliance, the unauthorized structures remained in place.
The Government wishes to emphasize that the structures removed were unauthorized developments, constructed without the required planning approvals and in breach of established building and land use regulations.
Planning regulations exist to ensure that all developments meet minimum standards for safety and structural integrity. Unauthorized settlements, regardless of appearance, often lack these safeguards and can pose serious risks to occupants and the wider community.
The enforcement of these regulations is therefore not only a legal obligation, but a necessary measure to protect lives, property, and public health.
The Turks and Caicos Islands Government remains fully aware of the housing challenges currently facing the country. However, unlawful
All persons undertaking construction or occupation of land must do so in accordance with the law, including obtaining the necessary planning approvals.
The Government will continue to work collaboratively across agencies to:
- Uphold planning and development regulations
- Protect private and public lands
- Prevent the expansion of unsafe and informal settlements
- Advance long-term solutions for sustainable community development
This exercise represents part of an ongoing commitment to ensuring that development within the Turks and Caicos Islands is lawful, safe, and aligned with national standards.