The City of Ekurhuleni said it is imperative to understand the rules of engagement for operating a business in the City.
This can be done by visiting the City Planning office in Kempton Park. Many business entities operate successfully from home, with little or no disruption and no fear of overstepping the by-laws. On the other end, some businesses operate in residential areas that cause disruption and are a nuisance to other residents in the neighbourhood.
MMC for Finance and Economic Development Clr Nkosindiphile Xhakaza said any business conducted from home was an infringement on the residential zoning regulations because zoning laws state a business can only be conducted in areas earmarked for business.
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He added that zoning schemes was a legal document that stipulates what type of buildings and activities could take place in a particular area, which includes regulations about restrictions on such rights and how they can be exercised.
“If an area is not zoned for business, residents in the neighbourhood might have a strong objection to a rezoning.
“In order to apply for rezoning, an applicant must advertise the business’s intention to conduct a particular business activity in the local newspapers, where after residents and other stakeholders have the chance to respond with any objections,” added Xhakaza.
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