The home business owners of Hanover Park finally have clarity on the City of Cape Town’s zoning by-laws.
Public outcry and confusion emerged after the City announced that it would begin enforcing penalties – including possible fines or imprisonment – for individuals operating businesses from their homes without the necessary permissions. Many residents feared that this would directly impact people selling homemade food, snacks, clothing, or other goods from their properties, a practice that has become common in many Cape Flats communities where residents are battling the rising cost of living.
Deputy mayor, Eddie Andrews, engaged with Mr and Mrs Majiet, who have been selling homemade goods from their Hanover Park residence.
Public outcry and some confusion emerged, when the City announced that it will be enforcing a fine or possible imprisonment for people operating businesses from their homes. However, it has now been clarified that people can continue to sell their goods, as long as they don’t put up signage with their business name outside their home.
The zoning laws will then register this home enterprise as a commercial entity, which requires specific compliance. But if there is no business signage, the sales can continue.
The Newfields Village Anti-Eviction Community Representative Forum’s Gary Hartzenberg says that “Koeksister-gate” has finally been put to rest. Andrews will meet with residents who are selling goods from their homes to explain how they can remain compliant with the City’s zoning conditions.
