Running a business from home, what does COCT say?

Running a business from home, what does COCT say?

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Aside from the work from anywhere trend, there has been an explosion of home-based businesses, many of which operate/trade purely online, others are working from home, or renting out a cottage or part of the house, etc., but what are the City of Cape Town regulations around this? What can/cannot be done?

No specific laws in South Africa regulate or prohibit running a home-based business. These are usually regulated by local municipal bylaws which could permit some to run without municipal consent, others with a permit, and others may require formal application for rezoning for business use.

When establishing a business, the resident must ensure they comply with the bylaws on the one hand, and on the other hand, ensure minimal disruption to neighbours and residents. Adhering to regulations concerning signage, parking, and obtaining necessary licenses is essential. Excessive noise or visitor traffic could lead to issues, potentially resulting in legal challenges.

In Cape Town, small home-based micro businesses don't need permission on Single Residential 1 zoned properties. These include professionals like lawyers, accountants, online ventures, and businesses accommodating visitors or activities like worship spaces, guest houses, or childcare for up to six guests/children. House shops like beauty or hair services also don't need permission. Food handling (manufacture, store, distribute, prepare, transport or sell) requires a "certificate of acceptability" (see weblink below).

If you need to accommodate more guests or children, or want to build a second house on the property, or use the property in its entirety for a business, you must obtain a "consent use" or "temporary departure" from the city as well as CIPC registration. Other permissions may also be required, for example a crèche with more than six children, must register with the Department of Social Development.

For more information, visit the City of Cape Town website:

What can you do if your neighbour's business is a nuisance or too noisy?

The first step is always to speak to the neighbour in an attempt to find an amicable compromise. If, however, the property is not being used according to the land use regulations, or there are serious noise issues, you can report it to the city or relevant authorities - see links below. As a last resort, you may need to pursue legal action.

To report a noisy neighbour:

To report illegal land use:

Aside from the security and wealth accumulation benefits that owning property offers, there are also other ways that a property can be developed in terms of the city's densification policy. This ranges from sectionalising it and developing a second, and even a third property as well as other development opportunities. You can find more information on the City of Cape Town website (www.capetown.gov.za). These usually also involve input from neighbours, and residents should always keep a lookout for any development or zoning notices which require input.

At Seeff, we open thousands of doors to new homes and property aspirations for our clients each year. The property market remains packed with opportunities for sellers and buyers. If you would like to know more, or discuss your property needs, please contact us today!

Author: Gina Meintjes