Residential estate with community areas and tennis court. A Non British Virgin Islander must apply to the Government for a Land Holding License. The application is made for a specific parcel of land either unimproved or developed after agreement has been reached with the vendor, and a purchase contract which is subject to the license being granted has been signed. If the property is unimproved the government will require with the application form, information on the type of building proposed, the approximate amount of money to be spent and a commitment to develop the land within 18 months to 3 years. The British Virgin Islands are 59 square miles with the main island Tortola being 21 square miles.
Cisterns are the main water source.
There is also a mains water supply, which supplies desalinated water to most parts of the island. Domestic rates start at 12 cents for the 1st 1000 gallons. Cost is 24 cents per 60 units and 22.5 cents for anything after. Personal income tax is based upon gross income with no allowances and no writeoffs. There is no tax on inheritance or capital gains, there is also no sales tax.