The functions of the Zambia Institute of Architects are performed by the Council and the Council for purposes of performing its functions under the Act, establishes committees consisting of members of the Institute.

Zambia Institute of Architects (ZIA) was founded in 1954, as the Northern Rhodesia Institute of Architects (NRIA).  It became the Zambia Institute of Architects in 1964 at independence.

Established through an Act of Parliament n.36 of 1995 as a body corporate with perpetual succession and a common seal, capable of suing and being sued in its corporate name and with power, subject to the provision of the Act.

The ZIA Act currently provides for five (5) categories or classes of membership namely – Corporate Members, Honorary Members, Life Member, Foreign Member and Student Member.