Water Management and Biodiversity Directorate
Overview
The Directorate’s functions span across improving and protecting water courses, managing water conservation demand, reducing water losses, exploring alternative water sources, and building a water-sensitive city. We are committed to the adequate protection and security of biological diversity, control of alien and invasive species, and ensuring the ecological functioning of ecosystems. We also focus on the equitable provision of recreational facilities on open spaces and the integration of these spaces into the urban environment. This comprehensive approach allows us to effectively manage and protect our natural resources and open spaces.
Planning, monitoring and managing water within the city through:
1. Water Services Regulation and Policy Development
WM&B is involved in the development and amendment of various policies and bylaws related to water services, sanitation, rainwater harvesting, and groundwater exploration. The goal is to ensure that these regulations are up-to-date and in line with the city’s water management objectives. This function also includes the issuance of water use licenses and permits, which are necessary for certain activities that involve the use of water services. This function involves monitoring and ensuring compliance with water demand, safety plans, quality, and sanitation regulations. This is done through regular inspections and audits. Furthermore, there is a strong focus on collaboration with stakeholders such as Joburg Water, Rand Water, and institutions of higher learning to promote sustainable water management practices.
2. Catchment Management and Water Quality
About Boreholes
A borehole is a deep hole drilled into the ground to access underground water. In the City of Johannesburg, most boreholes are drilled to augment the municipal water supply for domestic, commercial, or monitoring purposes. Groundwater is a limited resource that must be used carefully to avoid problems like depletion or environmental damage. The City of Johannesburg Water Services By-laws 2023, the National Water Act, 1998, and the City’s Land Use Scheme 2018 set strict rules to ensure boreholes are safe and sustainable.
Understanding key concepts:
1. What is a Borehole?
A borehole means a hole sunk into the earth for the purpose of locating, abstracting or using subterranean water, and includes a spring.
2. What is commercial purpose?
Commercial purpose in relation to the supply of water means water supplied to premises to be used in the carrying out of a trade or business.
3. What is a domestic purpose?
Domestic purpose in relation to the supply of water means the general use of water supplied for personal and residential uses, including health and hygiene, drinking, ablution, culinary, household and garden maintenance.
4. What is consent use?
Means permission granted by Council, after due consideration of all relevant facts, in which a specific aspect of land management is permitted, such as the installation and operation of a borehole.
Policies and Guidelines
Certain National legislation and Municipal by-laws and policies govern aspects related to water resources in South Africa, including groundwater and borehole applications.
Key policies are provided below:
Enforcement
Report suspected illegal borehole drilling to the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department:
- JMPD’s Superintendent Hermanus
- Contact number: 068 028 2626
Residents and businesses urged to abide by city rules before drilling for water and report all suspected illegal drilling activities. Let’s work together to safeguard our city’s assets.
Application Forms
How to apply?
An application for the intention to sink/drill a wellpoint/borehole in terms of Chapter 10 of the City of Johannesburg Water Services By-Laws, 2023 and Land Use Scheme Section 14(1)(b), 2018, can be made by applying online.
Please ensure that you complete all relevant sections, attach supporting documents and submit the application.
Contact Us
- Email boreholeapplications@joburg.org.za
- Call: 011 082 7970
- Email: boreholemeteringreadings@joburg.org.za
For Technical Queries Only