The City of Johannesburg’s Development Planning Department has intensified its enforcement of land use regulations, with the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court issuing warrants of arrest for individuals linked to serious breaches of the City's Planning By-laws.
On 27 August 2025, warrants were granted for offenders associated with three properties where illegal operations were found to be in direct contravention of the Johannesburg Land Use Scheme. Despite prior enforcement action and court summonses, the individuals involved failed to appear in court, prompting the escalation.
The properties involved include:
Erf 439, The Hill Ext. 1 – Operating a fast-food outlet, residential commune, and spaza shop without proper zoning approvals.
Erf 1202 PTN 353, South Hills – Running an unlicensed shebeen and takeaway.
Erf 1202 PTN 400, South Hills– Operating a tavern and restaurant unlawfully.
These legal developments highlight the City's zero-tolerance approach towards unlawful land use and its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the urban planning framework.
“The City will not tolerate property owners and businesses who undermine planning regulations. Illegal operations place communities at risk and erode the City’s developmental vision,” said Cllr Eunice Mgcina, Member of the Mayoral Committee for Development Planning.
“Through strong partnerships with the courts and law enforcement agencies, we will ensure compliance and accountability.”
The City’s Planning Law Enforcement (PLE) Unit will continue referring non-compliant cases to the courts, with penalties ranging from monetary fines to arrest, depending on the severity and persistence of the violation.
The City of Johannesburg urges all property owners, developers, and business operators to obtain the necessary development permissions and land use rights before commencing any construction or commercial activity.
--
No comments:
Post a Comment