The City of Johannesburg has welcomed yesterday’s High Court judgment directing the City to expedite the verification and registration process for informal trading permits and stalls in line with municipal by-laws and national legislation.

This landmark judgement affirms the City’s commitment to regulating and supporting the informal trading sector through transparent, lawful, and inclusive processes that recognise the vital contribution of informal traders to Johannesburg’s economy.

MMC for Economic Development Cllr Nomoya Mnisi expressed her appreciation for the ruling, saying it enables the City to strengthen its management systems and deliver improved service in the inner city.

“The court’s decision paves the way for structured and fair allocation of trading permits. This will help eliminate irregular practices and ensure that qualified informal traders operate within an equitable and well-managed framework,” said MMC Mnisi.

She added that the Economic Development Department, working with its Executive Director, will ensure full compliance with the Court’s directives and alignment with the City’s High Impact Service Delivery Plan, led by Executive Mayor Cllr Dada Morero, to promote inclusive economic participation across all communities.

MMC for Public Safety Cllr Dr Mgcini Tshwaku also welcomed the judgement, reaffirming the City’s dual commitment to safety and economic empowerment.

“The City supports informal traders as essential contributors to Johannesburg’s local economy, but this must be done responsibly and within the law. Areas such as De Villiers Street had become high-risk zones due to overcrowding, rising crime, litter, and the presence of undocumented individuals. The ruling allows us to restore order while safeguarding livelihoods,” said MMC Tshwaku.

The Department of Public Safety will, through the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and Emergency Management Services (EMS), conduct community outreach programmes to ensure traders understand their rights and obligations, preventing unnecessary confiscation of goods.

Verification and Registration Process

In line with the court order, the verification and registration process will take place as follows:

• Date: 04–18 November 2025
• Time: 09:00–16:00
• Venue: 66 Jorissen Place, Ground Floor, Opportunity Centre, Braamfontein

Applicants are required to bring originals and copies of the following:

• South Africans: Green bar-coded ID or Smart ID Card
• Non-South Africans: Valid Passport, Asylum Seeker Permit, or Refugee Permit (with business authorisation as per the Immigration Act, 2002 or Refugees Act, 1998)
• Additional documents: Proof of residence (municipal bill or landlord affidavit), Lease Agreement and rent proof from JPC, Certificate of Acceptability (Environmental Health), and Fire Certificate (EMS)

Only applicants meeting all legal requirements will be registered and allocated trading spaces in accordance with the Court’s order and municipal by-laws.

This collaborative approach between the Economic Development and Public Safety departments underscores the City’s commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and the rule of law, ensuring Johannesburg remains a city that works for all.