FSRA targets illegal informal trading in Florida South
The Florida South Residents Association plans to help informal traders comply with municipal regulations before taking steps against those operating illegally.
The Florida South Residents Association (FSRA) has launched an initiative aimed at reducing illegal informal trading across its area while assisting traders to comply with the City of Johannesburg’s by-laws.
According to FSRA chairperson Rodney Churchyard, the association supports residents who earn an honest living but is concerned about traders operating without the necessary permits.
“We absolutely support anyone who works hard to earn an honest living. Unfortunately, some take shortcuts and do not adhere to the rule of law, creating a negative perception of informal traders within communities,” he said.
Churchyard alleged that some unregistered traders litter public spaces and sell food without the required permits, raising concerns about hygiene and consumer safety.
He said the initiative will focus on educating informal traders about the city’s requirements and allowing them to become compliant.
“The primary objective of the initiative is to educate informal traders and provide them with a fair and reasonable opportunity to comply with the City of Johannesburg’s informal trading requirements,” he said.
As part of the programme, the FSRA plans to visit traders at their trading sites, compile a register of informal traders and distribute information packs outlining the permit application process.
Traders will be given a 30-day grace period to apply for the necessary permits before the association engages the city on possible enforcement action.
“Thereafter, we will work closely with the city to ensure its informal trading policies are strictly implemented,” Churchyard said.
The FSRA intends visiting several identified hotspots, including the Florida Lake Flea Market and the corners of Maud Street with 4th, 5th and 9th avenues.
Churchyard said the success of the initiative would depend on support from government departments, community organisations and other stakeholders.
“We are yet to hear from the various departments and community organisations we have approached, but we are hopeful that we can count on their support,” he said.
