MMC of Development Planning hits the streets to ensure properties are respective of by-laws
PAGEVIEW – MMC says, "We cannot allow law-abiding residents to be held at ransom by brazen criminality in their communities," following by-law enforcement blitz.
The MMC for Development Planning recently tagged along to a multi-departmental land use by-law enforcement blitz.
Councillor Reuben Masango opted to ditch his office on 9 October and hit the streets of Pageview with the City of Johannesburg’s Region F Citizen Relationship and Urban Management (Crum) team. The MMC stated that this multi-departmental land use by-law enforcement blitz was aimed at properties that have not been compliant with the City’s regulations. “This law enforcement operation targeted properties not complying with the City’s building regulations, often allowing people to live in overcrowded, inhumane and unsafe conditions.”
Masango added that properties occupied by more than the prescribed number of people adds tremendous pressure to the City’s already aged services infrastructure. “Illegal building and land use not only affect property owners around an area, they also have a significant impact on the City’s infrastructure overall.”
During the blitz, a number of building contraventions were identified and appropriate notices were issued. City Power officials also managed to disconnect various illegal power connections.
Masango pleaded with the public to avoid illegal acts in order to assist the City in ensuring by-laws are followed. “We appeal to all residents, developers and stakeholders to refrain from illegal activities, and play their part in bringing Johannesburg back to its former glory and to comply with all building regulations and other safety bylaws.”
The consequences for those who disregard the City’s by-laws can expect to face the full might of the law through the law enforcement process. This includes a rates and taxes penalty tariff increase and possible prosecution at the City’s municipal courts.
The MMC concluded, “We cannot allow law-abiding residents to be held at ransom by brazen criminality in their communities.”
In order to achieve this, Masango has urged the public to report any illegal buildings and illegal land use by contacting their local regional officer. Alternatively, you can email the Development Planning Law Enforcement Unit office at complaintsple@joburg.org.za.
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