Ba-Phalaborwa warns against illegal land occupation
Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality warns residents against illegal land occupation in Gravelotte, threatening legal action for non-compliance.
PHALABORWA – The Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality has issued a stern warning to individuals illegally occupying a parcel of municipal land known as Re/5/781 Farm Ferrell in Gravelotte.
In a public notice shared on its official Facebook page, the municipality stated: “The municipality would like to warn all those involved in land invasions or illegal land use activities to cease and rectify such actions immediately.”
This comes after individuals were found occupying a portion of the land and erecting fences, suggesting plans to build houses without permission.
The municipality emphasised that it has designated plans for the land, which include subdividing it into 200 residential stands that will be made available for purchase. No one is permitted to use or settle on the land without formal approval from the municipality.
According to Section 156(2) of the Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality Spatial Planning and Land Use Management by-law, 2016, any landowner who allows their property to be used in a way not aligned with the approved land use scheme, without taking steps to stop the activity, is guilty of an offence.
If convicted, offenders may face a fine, imprisonment for up to 20 years, or both.
The municipality warned that legal action will be taken against anyone who fails to comply with the notice.
To reinforce this, municipal officials visited the affected site and placed notices in public spaces, including the local library and police station.
In a related effort, the municipality conducted an Illegal Land Use Operation in May, led by the Planning and Development Department in collaboration with the Technical Services Department.
The team inspected various sites and buildings where people were living or conducting business unlawfully. During the operation, they disconnected illegal electricity connections and addressed unauthorised water usage to prevent losses and ensure fair service distribution.
Residents are encouraged to report any illegal land invasions or land use violations by calling the municipality at 015 780 6472.
