The registration, application, and issuing of informal trading permits across the city has resumed. This was announced by the City of Johannesburg’s Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Economic Development, councillor Nomoya Mnisi.

The registration process officially commenced on October 6 in the inner city (Region F), and will later be rolled out to other regions through a block-by-block implementation.

Read more: Fourways illegal traders and settlements in spotlight

This development comes just after informal traders in Fourways launched a petition demanding that the authorities reconsider their decision to remove them from their trading spots along a provincial road, where trading is prohibited.

The traders argued that they were not given adequate alternative spaces, calling the removal an infringement on their right to earn a living.
“I have tried everything to seek advice on what to do next,” said one of the traders, Lindi Mothali, “because we constantly live in fear of being removed from our trading spots by officials.”

While the local authorities cited safety and regulatory compliance as reasons for the removal, the new permit initiative, guided by the Informal Trading Policy (2022), signals an effort to balance enforcement with empowerment in the informal sector.

“Informal trading plays a vital role in sustaining livelihoods and driving local economic activity,” said Mnisi. “The city remains committed to creating a well-regulated framework that promotes order, safety, and economic growth.”

Mnisi encouraged all eligible informal traders operating in markets, transport facilities, and other demarcated trading areas to visit the city’s Informal Trading Unit Office to register and apply for their permits.

Also read: Fourways hawkers fight for their right to trade

The MMC said the initiative aims to support small businesses, while ensuring a fair, safe, and inclusive trading environment, particularly as the city seeks to strengthen its post-pandemic local economy.

Permit details and requirements

Only eligible and compliant traders will receive smart card permits. The first permit will be issued free of charge, while renewals and replacements will attract a fee determined by the city.

Traders will also be required to pay a monthly rental fee for the use of their stalls or trading spaces.
Registration details:

• Start Date: October 6, 2025 (until further notice)
• Time: 09:00 – 15:00
• Venue: 66 Jorissen Place, 1st Floor, Main Tower, Braamfontein

Eligibility criteria:

• South African citizens: Valid green barcoded ID or Smart ID card (to be verified by the Department of Home Affairs).
• Non-South African citizens: Valid passport, asylum seeker permit, or refugee permit (18 years or older). Must hold a valid business visa, under Section 10 of the Immigration Act, 2002, or an asylum seeker permit, under Section 22 of the Refugees Act, 1998.

Supporting documents required:

• Proof of residence (municipal bill or landlord affidavit),
• Lease agreement issued by the Johannesburg Property Company (JPC),
• Proof of rent payment to JPC,
• Certificate of acceptability (Environmental Health), and
• Fire certificate (Emergency Management Services).

The city said the rollout will continue across regions, ensuring every trader has a fair opportunity to register.

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