The City of Ekurhuleni’s Informal and Street Trading Policy Management Framework along with its associated regulations, plays a crucial role in regulating street trading activities in the city.
This framework ensures compliance with the street trading by-laws, and Environmental Health Regulation 638. It further promotes a structured approach to informal trading.
Informal street trading has become more prominent in Ekurhuleni in recent years, reflecting the municipality’s evolving economic landscape. The increase in the street trading industry mean informal traders are now recognized as essential suppliers for communities especially low-income households.
Street trading is governed by several important regulations, including:
- EMPD Street Trading By-Laws: These by-laws outline the rules and regulations that govern street trading activities;
- Environmental Health Regulations 638: This regulation requires that the person in charge of food premises is trained in the principles and practices of food safety and hygiene; and
- Business Act,71 of 1991: This act provides the legal foundation for business operations, including street trading.
To become a street trader, you are required to possess a valid trading permit issued by the city’s Economic Development Department. This permit is valid for 12 months and can be renewed based on satisfactory conduct.
The process to obtain a street trading permit is as follows:
- Application submission: Traders must submit an application form along with a certified copy of their ID and proof of residence.
- Document verification: Once the application is submitted, it is verified for correctness. The application is then circulated to the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) and Environmental Health for comments;
- Payment of fees: If comments recommend issuing the permit, the applicant is notified to make a payment of R 231.00; and
- Permit Issuance: Upon submission of proof of payment, the trading permit is printed and signed by the necessary authorities, including the Customer Care Centre Manager, the Manager of Business Regulations and Compliance, as well as the Head of the Economic Development Department.
On average, the entire process takes about 13 days, but the law allows for a maximum of 21 days for permit issuance. Street traders in Ekurhuleni must adhere to several regulations to maintain their permits. The EMPD conducts regular inspections to ensure compliance with local by-laws, and any violations can result in fines or the confiscation of goods.
“Traders are also responsible for managing their waste by keeping clean water in acceptable containers, properly disposing of waste and leaving no waste behind after trading. Traders must participate in regular training sessions and renew their permits every 12 months; failure to comply may lead to the non-renewal of permit,” elaborates city spokesperson Zweli Dlamini.
“When selecting trading locations, traders must ensure that their site do not obstruct pedestrian or vehicle traffic and comply with sanitation standards, especially for food trailers which must include provisions for wastewater and refuse management.”
The city would like to clarify that the Ekurhuleni Informal and Street Trading Policy Management Framework aims to create a balanced environment for street traders while ensuring public safety and order. By understanding the regulations and following the required steps for obtaining a trading permit street traders can operate legally, without fear of the law enforcement officers confiscating their products.
It is crucial for traders to remain informed about their responsibilities and the compliance measures to ensure the longevity of their trading endeavours and growth opportunities.
Informal street trading permit applications are available at all Customer Care Centres of the City of Ekurhuleni. Those interested in street trading can also access the application forms online at the following link:
