Tshwane: The City of Tshwane is urging spaza shop and food-handling facilities to register their businesses with the municipality as the registration deadline approaches on February 28, 2025. Last year, the national government mandated spaza shops and food-handling facilities to register with their respective municipalities within 21 days to ensure compliance with by-laws. The deadline was extended from December 17, 2024, to February 28, 2025, by the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, prompting the City to develop a revised registration rollout plan currently being implemented across all seven regions.
According to South African Government News Agency, at least 4,055 businesses within the City’s jurisdiction have registered so far. To register a spaza shop, owners are advised to visit local municipal offices or the website http://www.tshwane.gov.za/. Required documents for registration include a zoning certificate, certified copy of identity document or Home Affairs documents, Compan
ies and Intellectual Property Commission registration of business documents or an affidavit for sole proprietors, copy of lease agreement or title deed, proof of residence, affidavit and identity document of the stand or erf owner, menu for restaurants, and a tax clearance certificate.
The City has emphasized strict enforcement of by-laws after the registration window closes, including confiscating goods, issuing fines, or closing businesses that are non-compliant. Consumers are encouraged to help prevent non-compliant outlets from operating in their communities. Businesses are expected to display trade licenses or permits, which will only be issued if they comply with municipal health, fire safety, and town planning regulations. Registration is crucial for compliance with health regulations and municipal by-laws, enabling businesses to obtain necessary licenses or permits to trade.
To report a non-compliant business, individuals can send an email to [email protected] or call 012 358 8
865.