Johannesburg
South Africa
Township Economies By-Law, 2026
The Municipal Manager of the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality hereby, in terms of section 13(a) of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act, No. 32 of 2000, publishes the Township Economies By-Law for the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality, as approved by its Council and as set out hereunder, which will come into operation on the date of promulgation of this notice.Preamble
Whereas sections 152(1) and 153(a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 (The Constitution), mandate municipalities to promote social and economic development within their jurisdictional areas; andWhereas the Municipal Structures Act, No. 117 of 1998, provides for the establishment and structuring of municipalities and enables them to govern and make decisions necessary for the effective administration of local government functions; andWhereas the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act, No. 16 of 2013, requires municipalities to identify economic zones and prioritise public and private investment to foster growth and development; andWhereas the Businesses Act, No. 71 of 1991, empowers municipalities to regulate trading in designated areas; andWhereas section 22 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to choose their trade, occupation or profession while allowing the government to regulate this by law; andWhereas the City of Johannesburg acknowledges the critical role that township economies play in transforming the economy, andWhereas the majority of the City’s residents live in the townships, thereby possessing the collective buying power and structured informal savings strength, which must be nurtured to drive social and economic development.Chapter 1
Interpretation and application
1. Definitions and interpretations
In this By-law, unless the context otherwise indicates,“authorised official” means an employee of the City responsible for enforcing this by-law, including law enforcement officers designated as peace officers under section 334(1)(a) of the Criminal Procedure Act, No. 51 of 1977, and any other municipal employee or authorised person delegated to perform specific duties or functions under this by-law;“business” means any entrepreneurial activity, whether formal (registered) or informal (unregistered), involving the production of goods, provision of services, or sale of goods, as defined by the Business Act, No. 71 of 1991 read together with the National Small Business Act, No. 102 of 1996;“business activity” means the selling of goods, or the supplying or offering to supply a service for remuneration;“business licence” means a licence or permit issued by the City of Johannesburg granting permission to a business operator to operate a business within its jurisdiction;“business operator” means a natural or legal person legally authorised in accordance with the requirements laid down by this by-law and or any other applicable legislation to operate a legal business;“City” or “the City” means the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality established by Provincial Notice No. 6766 of 2000, as amended, or its successors in title; or a structure or person exercising a delegated power or carrying out an instruction, where any power in this By-law has been delegated or sub-delegated, or an instruction given, as contemplated in section 59 of the Municipal Systems Act, as the case may be;“foreigner” means an individual who is neither a South African citizen or permanent resident but is not an illegal foreigner in terms of the Immigration Act, No. 13 of 2002;"formalising" means the process through which an informal business transitions into compliance with municipal regulations by registering with the City, obtaining necessary permits or licenses, and adhering to applicable local, provincial, and national laws;"formal business" means a legally registered enterprise that complies with all applicable national, provincial, and municipal regulations, including but not limited to business registration, tax compliance, licensing, and zoning requirements;“goods” means products intended for human use or consumption;“illegal goods” means goods that were unlawfully acquired or disposed of, are prohibited for sale or distribution by national, provincial or municipal laws, are counterfeit as defined in the Counterfeit Goods Act, No. 37 of 1997, do not comply with the Customs and Excise Act, No. 91 of 1964, are stolen, or fail to meet mandatory safety or quality standards as per applicable legislation;"informal business" means a small-scale or micro-enterprise that operates without formal business registration, licensing, or tax compliance but engages in legitimate economic activities within the City’s jurisdiction. This includes street traders, home-based businesses, spaza shops, and other non-registered commercial activities;“litter” means any discarded or abandoned items, such as containers or receptacles, left behind by business operators or their customers;“Minister” means the Minister responsible for local government;“Municipal Council” means the elected body of representatives that governs a municipality, as outlined in section 157(1) of the Constitution;“Municipal Manager” means the person appointed in terms of section 54A of the Municipal Systems Act;“Municipal Systems Act” means the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act, No. 32 of 2000;“nuisance” means any action, behaviour, or condition that causes harm, inconvenience, or discomfort to others, including noise pollution, obstruction, or damage caused by individuals, businesses, or items in public or private spaces;“National Road Traffic Act” means the National Road Traffic Act, No. 93 of 1996;“Obstruct” means any action that blocks or is likely to block vehicular traffic or pedestrian traffic flow on a public road or private road, open or public space or private space;“PAIA” means the Promotion of Access to Information Act, No. 2 of 2000;“public monument” means “public monuments and memorials” as defined in section 2 of the National Heritage Resources Act, No. 25 of 1999;“public place” means any area, such as a park, square, or recreation ground, accessible to the public or identified as a public space in township plans or municipal records;“public road” means a public road as defined in section 1 of the National Road Traffic Act;“sell” means exchanging, displaying, delivering, or supplying goods for sale, including authorising or allowing such actions;“services” means activities or value provided for human use or benefit;“sidewalk” means a sidewalk as defined in section 1 of the National Road Traffic Act;“Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act” means the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act, No. 16 of 2013;“townships” means a settlement or geographical area identified as a township in terms of applicable laws, including those established during the colonial and apartheid periods for specific population groups or regions later proclaimed as such for the development of human settlements and economic activities; and“township economies” means formal and informal business activities within townships to uplift communities and foster economic growth.2. Purpose and objectives
(1)This By-Law establishes a regulatory framework for the effective governance, management, and development of township economies within the jurisdiction of the City of Johannesburg. It aims to balance regulation and economic support to ensure businesses operate within a structured, legal, and orderly environment while fostering inclusive growth and sustainable development.(2)To achieve this, the By-law seeks to:(a)formalise Informal Businesses — simplify regulatory and compliance processes to support the transition of informal enterprises into the formal economy, ensuring they operate legally and access growth opportunities;(b)harmonise Township Business Ecosystems — establish clear norms and standards to align formal and informal businesses for efficient management, fair competition, and economic integration;(c)promote compliance and awareness — educate township businesses on applicable laws, regulations, and best practices to enhance understanding and compliance;(d)support small businesses and economic inclusion — provide operational guidelines, facilitate business development, and integrate township enterprises into the broader economy;(e)protect public interests — safeguard public health, safety, and consumer rights by enforcing regulatory standards and ensuring responsible business practices;(f)prevent illegal and unfair practices — curb illegal trading, unfair competition, and business practices that undermine sustainable economic development; and(g)encourage sustainable growth and investment — ensure township economies are supported through infrastructure development, investment incentives, and strategic economic planning.3. Scope of application
(1)This By-law applies to all economic activities within townships in the City, including formal enterprises, informal traders, home-based businesses, cooperatives, and non-profit organisations engaging in commercial activities.(2)This By-law shall be implemented harmoniously with all other City By-laws to ensure regulatory consistency and coherence. In instances where conflicts arise between this By-law and other City By-laws regulating similar provisions, this By-law shall take precedence. However, alignment and integration with relevant legislative frameworks shall be prioritised to maintain legal uniformity and operational efficiency.Chapter 2
Business operations and economic rights
4. Freedom to engage in business activities
(1)Subject to subsection (2), any person with a business license may engage in business activities within the area of jurisdiction of the City.(2)Based on its developmental objectives, the city may determine quotas on the proportion of businesses within specific categories of businesses to be owned and operated by foreigners in line with all the relevant legislation.(3)In determining the quotas, the City must ensure, amongst others, that a proportion of the total staff employed in the business are South African citizens or permanent residents in line with all relevant legislation.5. Business licensing and compliance
(1)Applications for registration and permits can be obtained from:(b)official online platforms; and(c)designated service points such as community centres or municipal satellite offices.(2)Municipal officers must provide clear guidance on the application process and requirements to ensure accessibility for all applicants.6. Registration and permitting of business activities
(1)All businesses operating in township areas must be registered with the City.(2)The following documents are required for registration:(a)a completed application form;(b)proof of identity and/or valid company registration documents;(c)a detailed description of the business activity and area of intended operation;(d)health and safety certificates for applicable businesses;(e)a waste management plan for businesses generating waste;(f)food safety and hygiene training proof for food-related enterprises; and(g)air quality compliance documentation for activities involving emissions.(3)Applications and the prescribed fees must be submitted to the designated municipal office or online portal.(4)Permits may be generated electronically and issued through the City’s official digital platforms. Business operators must ensure they have valid digital copies accessible for display or inspection by authorised officials.7. Permit conditions, renewal, and revocation
(1)Permits shall be issued after the City verifies compliance with:(a)zoning laws and designated trading areas;(b)health, safety, and environmental standards; and(c)other applicable municipal by-laws and national laws.(2)An applicant must provide an affidavit stating that:(a)he or she is not engaged in the trade of illegal goods as defined in this By-law.(b)that his or her business operations are within the applicable norms and standards; and(c)he or she will be in actual and effective control of the business.(3)The City reserves the right to conduct background checks on applicants, including liaising with law enforcement agencies, to verify the legality of their business activity.(4)The details of the permit shall also include the following information:(a)name and identity number of the registered trader;(b)registration number of the business (where applicable); and(c)any conditions or restrictions applicable to the trading activity.(5)Display of Permits(a)Permits must be displayed prominently at the business premises or trading site.(b)Failure to display a valid permit may result in penalties, suspension, or revocation.(6)Permits may be revoked if the holder fails to commence business operations within three months of issuance without valid reasons.(7)The City must provide written notice before revocation, allowing the permit holder to submit representations for consideration by the City within 14 days.8. Transferability and suspension of permits
(1)Permits are non-transferable unless explicitly authorised by the City.(2)Approval of a transfer application is contingent on compliance with all regulatory requirements by the proposed permit holder.(3)Transfer applications must be submitted in writing, detailing:(a)the reason for the transfer; and(b)information about the proposed new permit holder.(4)Voluntary Surrender of Permits(a)Permit holders may voluntarily surrender their permits by submitting a written notice to the City.(b)Any fees paid for the permit are non-refundable.(5)Duration and Renewal of Permits(a)Permits are valid for up to 12 months unless otherwise specified.(b)Renewal applications must be submitted at least 90 days before expiration, including:(i)updated compliance documentation; and(ii)proof of adherence to permit conditions.(c)Late renewal applications may incur penalties.(6)Revocation and Suspension(a)Permits may be revoked or suspended for:(i)violations of municipal regulations or permit conditions;(ii)engagement in unlawful activities; and(iii)non-compliance with health, safety, or environmental standards.(b)The City must provide a written notice, outlining reasons for the revocation or suspension and steps for appeal.Chapter 3
Designation and regulation of business areas
9. Demarcation of business areas and sites
(1)The City must, subject to the provisions of the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act and any other applicable legislation, by-law or policy—(a)promote commercial, retail and industrial activities in townships; and(b)demarcate business areas and sites to promote inclusive economic development or recognise a township as a mixed-use business area.(2)The City may, by resolution —(a)extend, reduce, or disestablish a business area or site subject to compliance with the requirements of the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act and after public consultation and reasonable notice;(b)lease land or a portion of a property from the owner or occupier on condition that the owner or occupier allows a specified number of businesses to trade on such property on terms and conditions determined by the City over an agreed period; or(c)where possible, provide infrastructure for businesses that are leasing.(3)The City shall provide basic services and amenities, including sanitation, waste management, water, lighting, and security, to ensure that designated business areas are functional, accessible, and attractive to both traders and customers.(4)The City shall invest in infrastructure by providing basic services and amenities to ensure that designated business areas are functional, safe, and attractive to both traders and customers.(5)The City shall conduct periodic reviews of designated business areas to assess their effectiveness and make necessary adjustments based on demand, business growth, and stakeholder feedback.(6)The City shall complement signage in designated business zones with education campaigns aimed at informing communities and traders about the benefits, rules, and compliance requirements of these areas(7)The City must ensure that designated business areas and sites are easily accessible and visible to the public and potential customers. These zones must not be located in concealed or isolated areas that reduce their viability, particularly for informal businesses.(8)Business zones should be strategically located near high-footfall areas, transport nodes, or commercial hubs to promote economic activity.(9)The placement of informal trading areas or business sites must not disadvantage informal businesses by pushing them to locations with low customer visibility. However, it must also ensure that their placement does not impede the operations of formal businesses.(10)The City must also ensure that designated business zones maintain aesthetic and urban design standards, integrating them into the broader landscape without negatively impacting the area's character.(11)Where feasible, the City should provide signage, wayfinding markers, and infrastructure to enhance the visibility and attractiveness of designated business areas.10. Municipal infrastructure and services
(1)Infrastructure and Resource Allocation(a)Market Facilities: Develop and maintain trading spaces, including market shelters, storage areas, and sanitation facilities.(b)Utility Connections: Ensure adequate water, electricity, and waste disposal systems in business zones.(c)Digital Infrastructure: Promote the integration of e-commerce platforms and digital tools to support township businesses.(d)Environmental and Public Health Measures.(e)Sustainability Programmes: Educate businesses on waste management, recycling practices, and emission reduction measures.(f)Routine Inspections: Conduct health and safety inspections to ensure compliance with environmental standards.11. Public-private partnerships for economic development
(1)The City may establish a PPP framework to:(a)encourage private sector investment in township business infrastructure;(b)facilitate collaborations with technology firms to improve business operations; and(c)provide micro-financing solutions through banking partnerships.(2)Integrated Crime Prevention Strategies(a)Security Measures for Businesses: Businesses must install basic security features, such as lighting, and comply with anti-theft provisions.(b)Municipal Crime Prevention Initiatives:(i)Regular joint inspections with law enforcement agencies to ensure safe trading environments.(ii)Launch awareness programs for businesses on security best practices.(3)Disaster Preparedness Measures(a)Develop contingency plans to support businesses during emergencies, such as pandemics or natural disasters.(b)Plans will include financial relief options, access to emergency resources, and guidelines for resuming operations safely.(4)Transport and Logistics Support(a)Logistics Facilitation: Identify and demarcate loading zones for township businesses where possible.(b)Public Transport Access: Ensure major trading hubs are accessible via public transport routes during peak hours.(c)Municipal Collaboration: The City may collaborate with logistics providers to establish affordable delivery networks for township businesses.(5)Monitoring and Conflict Resolution(a)Establish a system to monitor adherence to this By-law and address violations effectively.(b)Maintain a database of registered businesses and their compliance status.(c)Facilitate conflict resolution mechanisms between traders, customers, and municipal authorities.Chapter 4
Municipal support and economic empowerment
12. Capacity building and business development
(1)The City must take active measures to support and regulate township economies in alignment with the objectives of this By-law. These steps include:(a)training programmes - organise workshops, mentorship programmes, and skills development initiatives to empower entrepreneurs and traders;(b)business development support - assist with business planning, marketing strategies, and access to financial resources; and(c)empower business operators and provide ongoing training on health, safety, and sustainable business practices.13. Facilitation of access to funding and markets
(1)The City may partner with private companies to develop infrastructure, offer technology support, or provide financial assistance to businesses.(2)Support initiatives to facilitate access to funding opportunities, grants, financial literacy programmes, and market opportunities (market facilitation and linkage, business to business linkage, and compliance support).(3)PPPs must align with the goals of the By-law and adhere to accountability measures set by the City.14. Support for youth and women entrepreneurship
(1)The City shall provide support for youth and women entrepreneurship(a)Develop targeted initiatives to support youth entrepreneurs and women-led businesses.(b)Ensure fair allocation of trading spaces, prioritising previously disadvantaged groups.(2)The City shall support Youth Entrepreneurship Programs(a)Youth-owned businesses may qualify for additional support, such as reduced permit fees or mentorship programs.(b)The City may partner with experienced business owners to offer structured mentorship opportunities for youth.(3)The City must promote economic empowerment(a)Targeted support for women-and youth-owned businesses, including lower permit fees.(b)Mentorship programs linking experienced entrepreneurs with new entrants.(c)Incubation hubs providing co-working spaces and advisory services.15. Digital transformation and e-commerce integration
(1)The City shall promote the integration of e-commerce platforms and digital tools to support township businesses.(2)Businesses should attend municipal digital training programs as part of their operational support package.(3)Township businesses engaging in e-commerce must comply with national and municipal e-commerce laws.(4)The City may provide subsidised internet access in designated business hubs.(5)Partnerships with private tech firms may be established to offer digital literacy and e-commerce training to:(a)promote e-commerce platforms and digital tools to expand market access for township businesses; and(b)provide training and infrastructure support to help traders adopt digital payments, marketing, and logistics solutions.(6)To enable township businesses to compete in the digital economy, the City shall:(a)promote and facilitate internet access in designated areas;(b)facilitate digital literacy training for businesses adopting e-commerce models;(c)ensure compliance with municipal and national e-commerce laws;(d)facilitate partnerships with private sector tech companies to support business digitisation.Chapter 5
Operational rules and trading regulations
16. Designated and prohibited trading areas
(1)The City may, in terms of this By-law, prescribe or make signs, markings or other devices indicating—(a)specified hours during which business activity in respect of particular goods or services is restricted or prohibited;(b)the boundaries of the restricted or prohibited areas; and(c)any other restriction or prohibition against business activity regarding the area in question.(2)The City must display any such sign, marking or device in such a position and manner as will indicate the restriction or prohibition and the location or boundaries of the area concerned.(3)A sign erected in terms of this By-law, or the Business Act serves as sufficient notice of the prohibition or restriction in respect of the area concerned.(4)A sign contemplated in subsection (1) may be amended from time to time and displayed by the City for this By-law and has the same effect as a road sign in terms of the National Road Traffic Act, 1996.(5)Except in cases where the City has granted prior approval, a person may not carry out a business activity—(a)in a garden or park to which the public has a right of access;(b)on a verge adjacent to government buildings, places of worship, or municipal offices;(c)at a building declared a public monument or heritage site;(d)an area within close proximity to an automated teller machine (ATM);(e)at a place where—(i)it obstructs a fire hydrant or an entrance to or exit from a building;(ii)it obstructs vehicular traffic; or(iii)it substantially obstructs pedestrians in their use of a sidewalk.(f)on a verge adjacent to a building in which business is conducted by a person who sells goods of the same nature as or of a similar nature to goods being sold by the seller concerned; and(g)next to a building used for residential purposes if the owner or person in control or an occupier of the building objects thereto.(h)Trading is prohibited outside any place of worship, national monument, and public building.(i)Trading is further prohibited in any area where it obstructs:(i)access to a fire hydrant;(ii)pedestrian or vehicular access points;(iii)automatic teller machines (ATMs);(6)The City shall designate restricted and prohibited areas where certain business activities may not be conducted. These areas include:(a)public spaces near schools, religious institutions, and government offices;(b)locations that obstruct public roads, pedestrian pathways, or emergency exits;(c)areas where business operations pose environmental, noise, or public health hazards; and(d)any zone that the City may, from time to time, designate as a protected area in consultation with stakeholders.17. Trading conduct and space management
(1)Business operators must:(a)limit their trading area to not more than six square meters or such a number of square meters determined and approved by the City;(b)Ensure sufficient space remains for pedestrian traffic on sidewalks and public pathways” avoid placing goods in a manner that may cause injury, damage, or obstruction; and(c)in areas where the City has not provided permanent trading stalls or shelters, take reasonable measures to ensure the structural integrity of any assembled or erected structures, preventing any potential collapse that could harm customers or the public.(2)Businesses must:(a)maintain records of the identification of his or her suppliers and be able to provide proof of the legitimate sourcing of the goods upon request by an authorised official; and(b)not knowingly purchase goods from suppliers engaged in the trade of illegal goods.18. Prohibited goods and business practices
(1)Business operators must not:(a)sleep overnight at their business locations unless expressly authorised;(b)leave or place goods or equipment on public roads or pavements unless expressly authorised; and(c)construct or erect permanent structures on a public road or public space without City approval.(2)Business operators must ensure that all sourced goods comply with regulatory prescripts.(3)Businesses must not:(a)sell illegal, counterfeit, or expired goods;(b)engage in activities that cause nuisances;(c)create traffic, health hazards, or health and safety risks;(d)purchase or source goods from unverified or illegal suppliers; and(e)operate in any unauthorised or non-designated area or space.Chapter 6
Hygiene, waste management, and environmental standards
19. Business operators’ responsibilities for cleanliness
(1)All business operators must always keep their trading areas clean and litter-free, and waste generated during operations must be collected in approved containers or bins provided by the City or authorised service providers.(2)Business operators:(a)must dispose of waste only at designated City collection points or facilities;(b)must separate recyclable materials following City guidelines; and(c)hazardous waste, such as chemicals or materials dangerous to health, must be handled and disposed of according to applicable environmental laws.(3)Food preparation or handling businesses must maintain high hygiene standards to avoid contamination or health hazards.(4)Public sanitation facilities the City provides must be used appropriately and not be misused.(5)Waste or refuse containers must not obstruct pedestrian pathways or public spaces, and businesses must ensure their waste disposal methods do not create a public nuisance or a health and safety risk.(6)All businesses must adhere to the City’s hygiene and sanitation guidelines, which include:(a)provision of waste bins at trading sites;(b)daily waste disposal to prevent the accumulation of garbage; and(c)compliance with public health inspections related to food safety, personal hygiene, and environmental sustainability.(7)Businesses engaged in food sales must have a waste management plan approved by the City.20. Municipal waste collection and sanitation services
(1)The City must:(a)provide waste collection services for designated trading areas, ensure timely waste removal and disposal, and(b)provide recycling and waste separation facilities in business zones to support sustainable practices.(2)Routine inspections will be conducted to ensure that businesses comply with hygiene and waste management requirements.(3)The City will impose penalties on businesses that do not comply with waste management or hygiene standards.21. Sustainability and recycling initiatives
(1)The City may offer financial incentives to businesses that adopt sustainable waste management practices, such as recycling and emission reduction measures. These may include tax benefits, recognition awards, or priority access to additional trading resources.22. Waste prohibitions
(1)Dumping waste in non-designated areas, public spaces, or waterways is strictly prohibited.(2)Businesses are prohibited from burning waste, particularly hazardous materials that may cause environmental harm or health risks.(3)Business operators must not overload, vandalise, or misuse City-provided waste bins, recycling units, or sanitation services.(4)Any violation of waste management regulations may result in fines, permit suspensions, or other enforcement actions as determined by the City.23. Compliance and penalties
(1)Businesses must retain receipts or proof of compliance with waste disposal services.(2)Businesses failing to adhere to hygiene or waste disposal standards may face penalties, including fines, suspension of permits, or cessation of operations.Chapter 7
Law enforcement and penalties
24. Offences and penalties for non-compliance
(1)A person who—(a)contravenes, or fails to comply with, a provision of this By-law;(b)fails to comply with a notice issued in terms of this By-law;(c)fails to comply with a lawful instruction given in terms of this By-law; or(d)who obstructs or hinders an authorised official in the execution of his or her duties under this By-law,is guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a fine or in default of payment to imprisonment for a period not exceeding 6 months, and in the case of a continuing offence, to a further fine or in default of payment to imprisonment not exceeding one (1) day for every day during the continuance of such offence after a written notice has been issued by the Council requiring the discontinuance of such offence, and for a second or subsequent offence he shall be liable on conviction to a fine or in default of payment to imprisonment for a period not exceeding 6 months.25. Impoundment and disposal of goods
(1)The City must establish a clear protocol for the impounding of equipment or goods, which includes:(a)mandatory documentation of the reason for impoundment, recorded in an official register;(b)issuing a receipt to the affected operator, detailing the impounded items and the procedure for reclaiming them; and(c)a timeframe within which the operator must reclaim their property before disposal.26. Appeals and dispute resolution mechanisms
(1)Any person aggrieved by a City decision under this By-law may submit an appeal within 21 days of receiving the decision or within an extended period agreed upon with the City.(2)During the appeal process, the initial application or decision remains in effect unless stated otherwise by the City.(3)Appeals must be submitted in writing and include all supporting documentation.(4)The City will provide a written decision on the appeal within a reasonable timeframe, stating the reasons for upholding or overturning the original decision.27. Integrated crime prevention strategies
(1)The City shall implement crime prevention initiatives to protect businesses, including:(a)installation of security lighting in designated trading zones;(b)collaboration with law enforcement agencies to conduct joint safety inspections; and(c)awareness campaigns to educate businesses on crime prevention best practices.Chapter 8
Monitoring, enforcement, and dispute resolution
28. Roles of authorised officials and law enforcement agencies including JMPD, development planning, environmental health, ems and economic development
(1)Authorised officials are empowered to enforce this By-law and monitor compliance which includes collaborating with relevant government agencies, such as:(a)the Department of Home Affairs;(b)the Department of Health;(c)the South African Revenue Service; and(d)any other relevant government agency.29. Municipal oversight and compliance monitoring
(1)a dedicated City task team comprising on JMPD, Development Planning, Environmental Health, CRUM, EMS and Economic Development must:(a)conduct unannounced routine inspections to ensure compliance with this By-law;(b)collaborate with law enforcement agencies to address illicit trade and unlawful business activities;(c)provide confidential reporting systems to the public for reporting suspected violations and transgressions;(d)maintain a centralised database of individuals and entities barred from holding permits or licences due to non-compliance which information may be shared with other municipalities.(2)The City shall establish a structured monitoring system to ensure business compliance with the By-law. This will include:(a)routine inspections conducted by municipal officials;(b)quarterly compliance reports assessing business adherence to licensing and operational rules;(c)public feedback mechanisms to report non-compliant business activities; and(d)a progressive penalty system for repeat offenders, ranging from suspension of licences or permits, fines, imprisonment or fines and imprisonment.30. Municipal collaboration on logistics
(1)The City must collaborate with logistics service providers to facilitate affordable and accessible transport solutions for township businesses, including:(a)loading zones in high-density trading areas;(b)public transport route planning to ensure township businesses are well-connected; and(c)partnerships with delivery networks to integrate small businesses into formal supply chains.31. Conflict resolution between traders and the city
(1)A grievance mechanism shall be implemented to allow operators to report incidents of:(a)harassment or unjust treatment by law enforcement officers; and(b)unfair impoundment of goods.(2)All grievances must be formally recorded and investigated within a reasonable timeframe, with outcomes communicated to the complainant.Chapter 9
Transitional measures and general provisions
32. Transitional arrangements for existing businesses
(1)The Municipality should, by public notice, call all the existing businesses within the area of jurisdiction of the Municipality to register their businesses.(2)Existing businesses operating under previously issued permits or licences can continue to operate under those permits until their expiration or revocation, subject to compliance with this By-law.(3)The applications of the existing businesses operating without previously issued permits or licences must also comply with the application procedure of this By-law.(4)Existing businesses that do not comply with this By-law must do so within six months.(5)Any existing business that will not have registered with the Municipality in terms of the public notice to be issued by the Municipality, prescribing deadline for registrations of businesses, will be regarded operating illegally after such a prescribed date.(6)Any new business established after the coming into operation of this By-law must apply, in terms the application procedure of this By-law, before they can operate.33. Short title and commencement date
(1)This By-law is referred to as the “City of Johannesburg Township Economies By-law” and will come into operation on the date of promulgation of the By-law in the Provincial Gazette.