The City of Johannesburg has intensified its crackdown on illegal buildings, unlawful businesses and land-use violations in Greater Ivory Park, with a multi-unit enforcement operation targeting properties found to be in breach of municipal planning and building regulations. The City's Development Pl​anning Department, led by the Member of the Mayoral Committee for Development Planning, Cllr Eunic​e Mgcina, operation was conducted on 8 September 2026 to promote compliance, protect municipal infrastructure and ensure development takes place in accordance with approved land-use and building regulations.

Officials identified several critical compliance risks, including buildings constructed over sewer lines, illegal water connections, encroachment onto pavements and businesses operating unlawfully on residential properties. Ward councillors and Region A officials joined the operation, engaging with property owners and residents to address concerns around illegal development and non-compliance.

The enforcement operation formed part of a broader Community Outreach Programme held at Lord Khanyile Hall in Ivory Park. Cllr Mgcina emphasised the importance of responsible development and compliance, noting that illegal construction and unlawful land use can pose serious risks to residents, municipal infrastructure and the broader community.

“We want to warn property owners against undertaking construction without the required municipal approvals or operating businesses on properties that are not appropriately zoned for commercial use.

“We encourage residents to approach the City's Development Planning Department before commencing any construction, changing the use of a property or establishing a business, to ensure that all necessary approvals and zoning requirements are in place," said MMC Mgcina.

She said failure to comply with municipal by-laws and planning regulations could result in enforcement action, fines and potentially costly legal consequences for property owners and business operators.

The Ivory Park operation demonstrates the City's commitment to curbing unlawful development while strengthening public education and encouraging voluntary compliance.

Written by Luyanda Lunika
09/09/2026
 
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