Residents looking to secure their own water supply through borehole drilling are now subject to a raft of regulations, the City of Johannesburg’s Department of Development Planning has confirmed. The rules, outlined in the city’s land use scheme (LUS) of 2018, aim to ensure the safe and sustainable use of groundwater resources.

The announcement comes as South Africa grapples with water scarcity, making alternative sources increasingly attractive. However, the city is urging residents to proceed with caution and follow the stringent guidelines to avoid potential pitfalls.

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Firstly, a written consent from the City of Johannesburg (COJ) is mandatory before any drilling commences, as per section 14(1) of the COJ’s LUS (2018). This application process includes seeking feedback from the city’s Engineering Departments and Environmental Infrastructure Service Department (EISD) to assess potential impacts on existing infrastructure. Importantly, borehole applications are not approved in areas designated as dolomitic under the COJ’s LUS (2018).

Secondly, residents must provide the municipality with 14 days’ written notice of their intention to drill, as required by section 41 of the COJ’s public health by-laws.

Thirdly, as per the National Water Act 36 of 1998, residents may also need a water use license from the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), depending on the amount of water extracted. Reasonable domestic use may be exempt from this requirement.

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Finally, adherence to safety measures is crucial. Boreholes must be adequately covered to prevent injuries, and clear signage indicating their presence must be displayed.

The department emphasised that these measures are essential to avoid damage to hidden infrastructure or the potential for sinkholes. Residents are also cautioned against hasty decisions and exploitation by unscrupulous companies promising quick fixes.

The regulations are further underpinned by the National Water Act, with the DWS overseeing broader controls, including:

• Permitting: Permits from both the DWS and the city are required before drilling, particularly for commercial boreholes. City approval alone is sufficient for domestic use. Applications for long-existing boreholes also need to be submitted for registration.
• Hydrogeological study: A study by a registered hydrogeologist may be required to assess water potential and environmental impact.
• Water use: Boreholes can only be used for specific purposes defined by the DWS, such as domestic, commercial, and monitoring (eg, filling station) use. The city approves non-portable use.
• Monitoring and reporting: Regular monitoring and reporting on water levels, water quality, and borehole maintenance is required by the DWS.
• Rehabilitation: Boreholes that are no longer in use must be properly rehabilitated to prevent groundwater contamination.
• Restrictions: The DWS and the city may impose restrictions on drilling and use in certain areas to protect the environment and water resources.

The city’s stringent approach reflects a commitment to responsible groundwater management in the face of growing water challenges. Residents are urged to familiarise themselves with the regulations before embarking on any borehole projects.

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