THE eThekwini Municipality is reminding individuals looking to start businesses that a business licence is a legal prerequisite for operating certain types of establishments.  This requirement is stipulated by the Business Act of 1991, which mandates that any business needing a licence must obtain one before commencing operations. 

Also read: Tuckshop owner fined R6 000 for non-compliance

Anyone who wishes to open establishments that offer accommodation, entertainment, or food services within the eThekwini area must register with the municipality’s Business Licensing Department.

These licences are generally valid for the duration of the business’s operation, but renewal is an annual obligation, due by the final working day of January. The municipality typically sends out renewal notices to existing licence holders. 

To facilitate the application and renewal process, the municipality has established several Business Licence Offices throughout Durban. These offices serve as points of contact for obtaining information and submitting applications. 

Office locations:

The offices are at the following buildings:

• 199 Anton Lembede (Smith Street), 7^th floor, Embassy Building – 031 311 45 35
• 151 Wick Street, Verulam Sizakala Regional Centre- 031 322 1803
• 9 Mayors Mews, Winklespruit Sizakala Regional Centre- 031 311 5870
• 60 Kings Road, Pinetown Regional Centre- 031 311 6209 
• 5 Ntuzuma Main Road, Midway Crossing Sizakala Regional Centre- 031 311 4387

The municipality urges prospective business owners, to verify and fulfil these licensing requirements prior to launching their ventures to ensure legal compliance.

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