In 2003, The City of Cape Town enacted a By-Law titled “The Environmental Health By-Law”.

According to section 2 of this By-Law:

“Notwithstanding the provision of any other By-Law or legislation no person shall—

(1) Allow any erf to be overgrown with bush, weeds or grass or other vegetation, except cultivated trees, shrubs and grass, to such an extent that, in the opinion of the Council, it may be used as a shelter by vagrants, wild animals or vermin or may threaten the public health or the safety of any member of the community.”

According to Section 3 of the By-Law, Non-compliance with Section 2 of the By-Law mandates the City of Cape Town to serve a notice on the owner of the property to rectify any non-compliance.

Should the owner not respond to the notice or otherwise fail to remedy the situation, the City of Cape Town is empowered to enter the property in question and undertake the necessary clearing and remedial work and thereafter recover the cost of such work from the owner of the property through any competent court of law.

Don’t fall foul of The Environmental Health By-Law, keep your properties clean and clear of overgrowth to avoid a hefty account and possible legal action as a result of non compliance.

#law #CoCT #EnvironmentalHealth #ThomsonWilks #propterylaw #CityCapeTown #propertybylaws  

#thomsonwilksattorneys #thomsonwilksinc

^{Source: City of Cape Town Environmental health By-Law 2003}

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