How to Handle a Contravention Notice in Tshwane
What is a Contravention Notice?
A Contravention Notice is usually issued after:
- A neighbor files a complaint with the City of Tshwane.
- Municipal land audits and routine inspections identify non-compliant properties.
- Random site visits by the City of Tshwane Town Planning Department.
Key Takeaway: Even if your business has been operating for years, you may still receive a Contravention Notice if it is found to be non-compliant.
What Happens After Receiving a Contravention Notice?
Legal Implications of a Contravention Notice
Non-compliance can result in:
- Fines & Penalties: One-time penalties or ongoing monthly fines.
- Legal Action: The municipality may take legal steps to enforce compliance.
- Forced Closure: If violations continue, the City of Tshwane may shut down business operations.
Important: Ignoring the Contravention Notice will not make it go away! Property owners must take immediate action.
What Can You Do After Receiving a Contravention Notice?
Option 1: Cease & Restore
- Stop all unauthorized activities immediately.
- Restore the property to its original zoning use (e.g., stop using a residential house as a business).
- This is often the quickest and least expensive way to resolve the issue.
Option 2: Legalize the Land Use (Recommended)
- Work with a professional town planner to assess your options.
- Submit a Rezoning Application or a Consent Use Application to formalize the new land use.
Key Considerations:
- A town planner can determine if the City of Tshwane will support the application.
- Rezoning or Consent Use approval ensures long-term compliance & prevents future penalties.
Example: If you are operating a guesthouse on a Residential 1 property, a Consent Use application can legally permit the guesthouse operation.
How to Legalize a Property with a Contravention Notice
Step 1: Consult a Town Planner
- Review the zoning certificate & title deed restrictions.
- Assess whether the unauthorized land use aligns with the City of Tshwane’s policies.
- Determine if a Rezoning or Consent Use application is required.
Step 2: Compile & Submit a Land Use Application
- Rezoning Application – Changes the property’s zoning category.
- Consent Use Application – Allows specific additional land uses (without changing primary zoning).
- Includes public participation, technical studies, & approval from municipal departments.
Step 3: Approval & Compliance
- Once the application is approved, the contravention issue is resolved.
- Ensure compliance with building plans & bulk service contributions (if required).
Estimated Timeframe for Rezoning/Consent Use: 6–12 months
Why Work with Urban Arrow?
Urban Arrow Town Planners and Development Consulting (Pty) Ltd specializes in:
- Handling Contravention Notices & Compliance Matters
- Rezoning & Consent Use Applications
- Subdivision, Consolidation & Land Use Approvals
- Title Deed Amendments & Legal Land Use Consulting
Need assistance? Let our expert town planners handle your case!
Contact Urban Arrow Today for professional advice on resolving your Contravention Notice in Tshwane.
