Unlicensed businesses face hefty fines
The act also grants authority to municipalities and inspectors to shut down businesses based on certain criteria.
Ray Nkonyeni Municipality has called on businesses operating without licences to apply for these before the end of December 2018.
At a press briefing on Tuesday this week, RNM mayor Cynthia Mqwebu said businesses operating illegally were being given an amnesty period to allow them to get their paperwork in order.
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This comes after investigations by the municipality revealed that a number of businesses had been operating without licences as required by the Businesses Act, which states that businesses have to be licensed by their local municipality and have to pay an application fee to secure that licence.
The act also grants authority to municipalities and inspectors to shut down businesses based on certain criteria.
“This may warrant a heavy fine and even closure of the business until it is properly licensed,” the mayor said.
Businesses which need to be licensed include anyone selling perishable food, bed and breakfast establishments, restaurants, health facilities, entertainment facilities such as adult entertainment and betting facilities, hawkers – including mobile trailer operators, liquor shops and taverns.
“As from January 1, 2019 the municipality will act swiftly against those who are still operating their businesses illegally.”
Those needing business licences can apply at the RNM Local Economic Development offices, located in the old Post Office building in Wooley Street, Port Shepstone or by contacting Philani Khambule at Philani.Khambule@rnm.gov.za or Sbusisiwe.Dlamini@rnm.gov.za.
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