Community urged to report illegal structures in Sinoville

Residents of Sinoville are urged to take an active role in reporting illegal structures and by-law violations as a part of a broader initiative to enhance safety and compliance within the community.

Local authorities emphasise that unauthorised construction, unlicensed businesses, and other violations not only undermine municipal regulation but also contribute to increased crime in the area.

According to ward councillor Lenise Breytenbach, unauthorised construction and illegal structures present significant safety risks.

She said buildings erected without proper permits often lack essential safety measures, posing hazards for both occupants and neighbours.

“These structures can lead to diminished property values and aesthetic degradation of the neighbourhood.

“Moreover, illegal activities such as unlicensed spaza shops and businesses operating without the necessary approvals can create environments that attract criminal behaviour,” said Breytenbach.

She argued that when regulations are ignored, it creates opportunities for unlawful activities to flourish, further endangering the community.

She emphasised the role residents play in identifying and reporting these violations.

Residents are encouraged to provide detailed information when reporting violations, including specific locations and descriptions of the activities observed.

“That information is crucial for local authorities to investigate and address the issues effectively.

“By reporting illegal structures and business practices, residents can contribute to a culture of compliance and accountability,” she said.

Breytenbach mentioned that neighbourhoods with active resident involvement in reporting violations are often more successful at preventing crime.

“When residents take ownership of their community and its regulations, it discourages illegal activities and promotes a safer living environment.

“Residents must be reminded that by being vigilant and proactive, they can help create a community that respects the law and thrives as a result.”

The metro has set up a dedicated service inbox for violations related to national building regulations through its Built Environment and Enforcement Division.

Its Department of Economic Development and Spatial Planning has been inundated with enquiries and complaints regarding illegal building work, the alterations and amendments to buildings and those that have been occupied without occupation certificates.

These enquiries are received through various channels, making it difficult to track progress and provide timely feedback.

To manage this, the department has created a central email address, bpcontraventions@tshwane.gov.za, that will strictly deal with illegal building works.

Residents are encouraged to ensure the property is identifiable by providing an accurate property description in the subject line and the street address (if available) when reporting.

For investigation purposes, the department also requires the complainant’s contact information and any available evidence.

The metro will only take appropriate action on matters deemed to have merit per the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, 1977 (Act 103 of 1977).

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