Building permissions in Johannesburg

Article published on May 14 2014

Building plans

Legislature throughout South Africa requires that building plans be submitted for approval by the Development Management Department of the city in question.

Building plans do not need to be submitted for simple tasks such as replastering your home or re-fitting a kitchen. However, if the shape of the existing structure will change through the moving of and adding of walls a building plan will need to be submitted.

Additions to existing structures will also require permission and plans will need to be submitted.

Why should you submit a plan?

• Failing to submit a plan may result in inadvertantly contravening zoning laws in your area.
• A building inspector may request to see the plans and their approval, if you are unable to provide these, building will be stopped and the buildong inspector may force you to tear down what you have already built.
• When you sell your house, the buyer may request to see the approved plans and this could prove detrimental the potential sale.

You can download and print the required forms below and hand them in at the address on the form.

1. Building plans submission form
2. Appointment of a registered person
3. Certificate by a registered person
   

These forms were gathered from the City of Johannesburg website and were correct at the time of publishing this article. Visit the Development Planning Page for any updates.