Ekurhuleni urges spaza shop owners to comply with licensing regulations

The City has called on residents operating, or intending to operate, spaza shops and other food-related businesses to comply fully with legal and regulatory requirements under the Business Act (Act No 71 of 1991).

The City said spaza shops play an important role in supporting local economies and providing convenient access to essential goods.

However, operators must adhere to municipal by-laws to safeguard public health, safety and fair trading practices.

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All spaza shop owners are required to obtain a valid business licence and meet several conditions before operating legally.

These include submitting a completed application form, a certified copy of the owner or manager’s identity document (not older than three months), and, for foreign nationals, valid documentation from the Department of Home Affairs authorising business activity.

Applicants must also provide proof of address, such as a municipal account or official confirmation of residence, along with a zoning certificate from the City Planning Department. Where zoning does not permit business activity, consent use must be obtained.

Additional requirements include proof of business registration, tax compliance or proof of application, and a motivation or affidavit from the property owner confirming that the premises may be used for business purposes.

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Businesses handling food and perishable goods must obtain a Certificate of Acceptability from the Environmental Health Division. A business licence fee of R825, valid for 12 months, is also payable.

The City warned that failure to comply constitutes a breach of municipal by-laws and national legislation.

Non-compliant businesses may face fines, closure or confiscation of goods.

Residents have been urged to regularise their businesses and co-operate with municipal authorities.

The City of Ekurhuleni said compliance is not only a legal obligation but also critical to protecting community health and ensuring safe food handling practices.

Members of the public are encouraged to report unsafe or non-compliant businesses through official municipal channels.