Forests and plantations

Residential water restrictions explained

Insufficient rainfall and fast declining dam levels have led to the current drought in Cape Town. We need to work together to change the way we use our water

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20home/residential-utility-services/residential-water-and-sanitation-services/Residential-water-restrictions-explained">Residential-water-restrictions-explained</a>

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Commercial water restrictions explained

Insufficient rainfall and fast declining dam levels have led to the current drought in Cape Town. We need to work together to change the way we use our water

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/work%20and%20business/commercial-utility-services/commercial-water-and-sanitation-services/Commercial-water-restrictions-explained">Commercial-water-restrictions-explained</a>

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Water saving toolkits

To help you spread the word, we have created water-saving information packs for your home, business and hospitality industry.

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20home/education-and-research-materials/graphics-and-educational-material/water-saving-resources">water-saving-resources</a>

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Get involved

Discover how you can get involved in your community

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/local%20and%20communities/community-building-and-upliftment/be-an-active-resident/get-involved">get-involved</a>

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Safety and security resources

The City offers a variety of free interesting and educational material relating to safety and security.

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20home/education-and-research-materials/graphics-and-educational-material/safety-and-security-education-resources" target="_blank">safety-and-security-education-resources</a>

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Play and get active

Keeping our kids active through sports and outdoor play is a great way to channel their energy.

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20home/family-care-and-support/caring-for-your-child/play-and-get-active" target="_blank">play-and-get-active</a>

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Resorts

Cape Town has a variety of coastal resorts offering affordable accommodation.

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/Local%20and%20communities/See-all-City-facilities/Our-recreational-facilities/Resorts" target="_blank">Resorts</a>

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Nature reserves

Our nature reserves protect and conserve our city’s natural areas and biodiversity heritage as well as offering both recreational and educational activities.

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/Local%20and%20communities/See-all-City-facilities/Our-recreational-facilities/Nature%20reserves" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="/_layouts/15/IMAGES/icgen.gif">Nature%20reserves</a>

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Loadshedding

Loadshedding power outages generally last for about 2 hours and 30 minutes, with one area being affected at a time during stage 1 and four areas being affected at a time during stage 3b.

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20home/residential-utility-services/residential-electricity-services/load-shedding-and-outages">load-shedding-and-outages</a>

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The Business Hub
Dam levels
MyEstate mobile housing office
The City Council

Applications still available for affordable housing opportunities in Blue Downs

Caption: (L to R): Councillor Malusi Booi and Councillor Malusi Booi with the City’s newly appointed Executive Director, Human Settlements Directorate, Nolwandle Gqiba. Over the past three weeks, the City’s Human Settlements Directorate’s Call Centre has fielded more than 1 022 calls and received more than 511 WhatsApp messages relating to the City’s call to take up affordable housing opportunities in Fairdale, Blue Downs.This follows Council’s recent approval for the transfer of the 219 residential serviced plots in Blue Downs for Gap housing opportunities at discounted market value rates to qualifying beneficiaries. <figure class="subtopic-fullsize-img"> <img class="responsive" src="http://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Centre/DSC_6133.jpg" alt="" style="width:1774px;" /></figure> ‘It has been encouraging to see the growing interest from members of the public in the City’s initiative to avail these well-located plots in a sought-after area in Blue Downs. These properties have been offered at a discounted market value rate to qualifying beneficiaries who are up for the adventure of building their own homes with the help of a commercial bank loan and the Finance Linked Housing Subsidy (FLISP).‘For this reason, I decided to visit the call centre today. It was great to engage with members of the public telephonically and with City staff to get first-hand experience about the queries that are coming in regarding this project.‘Residents are reminded and encouraged to apply for this opportunity if they are registered on the City’s Housing Database, have not previously benefited from a government subsidy and have a monthly income of between R9 000 and R22 000, among other criteria.<figure class="subtopic-fullsize-img"><img class="responsive" src="http://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Centre/DSC_6114.jpg" alt="" style="width:949px;" /></figure>‘The aim of this initiative is to afford this specific target group the opportunity with getting a foot in the property market. This is because the City recognises the growing need for housing opportunities for individuals who earn too much to receive a State-subsidised home but too little to participate fully in the private property industry, given the increasing property prices,’ said Councillor Booi.<ul><li>Beneficiaries only qualify if they have not previously owned a property.</li><li>They must be able to obtain an approved housing loan or bond from a commercial bank and qualify for the FLISP with the Western Cape Government for the house.</li><li>Current City or social housing tenants, as well as single individuals with financial dependents, who meet the criteria, can also apply.</li></ul>Furthermore, the City currently provides various housing opportunities, according to specific target income groups, as prescribed by applicable legislation, including free State-subsidised Breaking New Ground houses as well as social housing and land restitution projects.The plots range between 160 m2 and 350 m2 in size and are valued at approximately R105 000 (excluding VAT). The market value was determined by the City’s valuers.‘It was important for the City’s Human Settlements Directorate to ensure that the sale price of the properties was affordable to the beneficiaries. For this reason, the purchase prices will be based on a sliding scale of discounted rates, depending on the qualifying beneficiary’s monthly income. This means that properties could be sold to the beneficiaries for between approximately R25 000 and R63 000. The sale will be secured once a bank loan is approved and the full payment is made to the transferring attorney within six months of signing the deed of sale.‘Furthermore, the deed of sale will include conditions that no informal dwellings can be built on the property and that the property cannot be sold within the first five years, from the date that it is purchased from the City,’ said Councillor Booi.All legal processes for the transfer of these properties for gap housing purposes, including public participation, have been followed.‘Owning property will give the beneficiary and their family a sense of security and it will become a financial asset. We therefore encourage beneficiaries who meet the criteria to apply should they be interested in this opportunity to own a plot of land and build their home.‘Going forward, the City aims to make more land available in different areas across Cape Town to qualifying beneficiaries to purchase for Gap housing opportunities. Residents are reminded that there are various Gap housing projects in different areas, including projects with completed houses, not only vacant land,’ said Councillor Booi. Application forms may be collected and returned with applicable documentation at the following housing offices:<ul><li>Kuils River Municipal Offices, corner of Carinus Street and Van Riebeeck Road</li><li>City Housing Kiosk, Concourse Level, Cape Town Civic Centre, Hertzog Boulevard</li></ul>The application form can also be <a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/City-Connect/Apply/City-housing-and-properties/Housing-opportunities/apply-to-buy-land-in-blue-downs">downloaded from the City’s website</a>.Should residents have further queries, they may call 021 444 0333 or the City’s Call Centre on 0860 103 089, via WhatsApp: 063 299 9927 or email <a href="mailto:myestate@capetown.gov.za">myestate@capetown.gov.za</a> End

2019-08-20T22:00:00Z

No formal investigation into City tariffs

Statement by the City’s Executive Mayor, Alderman Dan Plato

It appears that certain lobby groups and media outlets have contributed to the spreading of misinformation about the City’s Nersa-approved electricity tariffs. Complaints have been received about the tariff, which is to be expected as a matter of course however there is no formal investigation into the City’s tariff structure. The City’s 2019/20 tariffs were approved at Council. Nersa approved the tariffs. Members of the public are encouraged to question the motives behind some lobby groups who continue to criticise the City and to misinform the public at large with fake news instead of sharing the facts that are made available in good faith. Civil society is an incredibly important sphere for engagement and to hold government to account. It is more effective when the engagements are based on constructive input.The City’s 2019/20 tariff increases have been kept as low as possible at 8,88% compared to the 15,6% increase implemented by Eskom. Electricity prices are influenced by the fact that 65% of the tariff goes towards buying bulk electricity from Eskom. There is a perception being fuelled by certain groups that established themselves as lobby groups during the drought crisis that the City budgets to make a profit from service provision. The City compares well to other metros with costs being lower in many instances. Tariff income is not planned for profit. Tariff information is available for all to see and the setting of tariffs is a process that is based on public participation. Importantly, there is still scope for reducing costs by reducing household consumption or being energy efficient. The City has also made considerable provision for vulnerable households and the elderly through the provision of rates rebates and indigent relief for thousands of residents who are in need of assistance. It is a pity that seemingly fake news is spread so easily without a proper interrogation of the content. It constantly leaves those who have to respond to fake news on the back foot and the truth becomes an ever more muddy territory. For more information please visit <a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/tariffs/">http://www.capetown.gov.za/tariffs/</a>

2019-08-19T22:00:00Z

Cape Town's dam levels reach 81,7%

Cape Town’s dam levels increased to 81,7% over the past week.

The dams supplying the City of Cape Town are 81,7% full. Collective water consumption for the past week of 12 to 18 August 2019 has decreased by 105 million litres per day from 608 to 503 million litres per day. The daily consumption has decreased considerably and water users remain within the daily allocation of 650 million litres per day. The City again thanks all residents who continue to think water during this necessary recovery period for Cape Town.Please visit <a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/thinkwater">www.capetown.gov.za/thinkwater</a> for all water-related information and Frequently Asked Questions. End

2019-08-18T22:00:00Z

City approves affordable housing developments in Philippi

The Municipal Planning Tribunal approved the proposed development applications in November and December 2018. Last week the City’s Planning Appeals Advisory Panel dismissed the appeals against the MPT’s decisions, which now paves the way for the developments to commence. ‘The developments will help us to establish a clear boundary between the urban edge, and the very important rural area that is otherwise known as the Philippi Horticultural Area. The erven that will be developed are situated in Knole Park, in the far western side of the PHA between Strandfontein, Ottery, and Boundary Roads. ‘The panel’s decision to dismiss the appeals is for the greater good of the local community, and also complies with the City of Cape Town’s Municipal Spatial Development Framework that requires the City to protect the productive core of the PHA,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment, Alderman Marian Nieuwoudt. All in all, the developments will comprise of 242 flats, located on different sites across Knole Park. The flats are intended for lower to middle-income households. Importantly, the developments will be well-located, close to public transport services and major routes, such as Strandfontein and Ottery Roads, providing residents with easy access to industrial and commercial areas. ‘We are all aware of the dire need for affordable housing in Cape Town. Approximately 30% of the land in Knole Park is vacant and neglected, making it prone to crime and invasions. These private developments will help put to good use urban vacant land, while at the same time improving the general safety of the local community. ‘Also, the developers are obliged as part of the conditions of approval to install a traffic signal at the intersection of Ottery and Boundary Roads to improve traffic flow; to upgrade the gravel roads of Koan Road and the section of Boundary Road between Koan and Ottery Roads with asphalt surfaces; and to install sidewalks along Ottery Road, down Boundary Road, and along Koan Road. They also have to pay development contributions to the City for the infrastructure needed to provide water, sanitation, and electricity services for the developments,’ said Alderman Nieuwoudt. End

2019-08-18T22:00:00Z

All City online services and applications

View all actions

Top City Connect services

Service Requests/Report a Fault (C3)

Alternative water sources for the home

The City is promoting the responsible use of alternative water, including grey water, rainwater, and groundwater from boreholes/well points.

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20home/greener-living/water-wise-in-the-home/alternative-water-sources-for-the-home">alternative-water-sources-for-the-home</a>

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Informal trading

Informal trade is a very important part of Cape Town's economy and benefits both traders and locals.

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/work%20and%20business/doing-business-in-the-city/business-support-and-guidance/informal-trading"><img alt="" src="/_layouts/15/IMAGES/icgen.gif">informal-trading</a>

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Bursaries and funding from the City of Cape Town

The City offers a number of external bursaries on offer.

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/Work%20and%20business/Jobs-and-skills-development/Work-for-the-City-of-Cape-Town/Bursaries-and-funding-from-the-City-of-Cape-Town"><img alt="" src="/_layouts/15/IMAGES/icgen.gif">Bursaries-and-funding-from-the-City-of-Cape-Town</a>

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Volunteers in uniform

Volunteering your time and skills with our fire-fighting, law enforcement and safety and security teams helps to make our city safer and better.

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/Local%20and%20communities/Community-building-and-upliftment/be-an-active-resident/volunteers-in-uniform"><img alt="" src="/_layouts/15/IMAGES/icgen.gif">volunteers-in-uniform</a>

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Prevent illegal dumping

We are calling on all our residents to stop and report illegal dumping … Illegal dumping costs us money It costs the City R350 million every year to clean up illegal dumping …

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20home/Safety-in-the-home/Environmental-health-in-the-home/prevent-illegal-dumping"><img alt="" src="/_layouts/15/IMAGES/icgen.gif">prevent-illegal-dumping</a>

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Fire safety in the home

Join our junior fire marshals, Aphiwe and Ayanda, as they investigate and solve fire issues in their communities.

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20home/safety-in-the-home/basic-household-safety/fire-safety-in-the-home"><img alt="" src="/_layouts/15/IMAGES/icgen.gif">fire-safety-in-the-home</a>

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Libraries

Loan out books, get access to electronic resources or take part in community programmes and events at any of our libraries

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/Explore%20and%20enjoy/See-all-city-facilities/our-service-facilities/Libraries"><img alt="" src="/_layouts/15/IMAGES/icgen.gif">Libraries</a>

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Upgrade to a new prepaid electricity meter

Find out if your suburb has been selected for a compulsory electricity meter upgrade

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/City-Connect/Apply/Municipal-services/Electricity/apply-for-an-upgrade-to-a-new-prepaid-electricity-meter"><img alt="" src="/_layouts/15/IMAGES/icgen.gif">apply-for-an-upgrade-to-a-new-prepaid-electricity-meter</a>

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Comment on the City's draft Coastal By-Law

You can read and comment on the draft Coastal By-Law

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/City-Connect/Have-your-say/Issues-open-for-public-comment/draft-coastal-by-law"><img alt="" src="/_layouts/15/IMAGES/icgen.gif">draft-coastal-by-law</a>

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We are reviewing our district plans and we would like to include you in the process.

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/City-Connect/Have-your-say/Issues-open-for-public-comment/district-planning-process"><img alt="" src="/_layouts/15/IMAGES/icgen.gif">district-planning-process</a>

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Give Dignity to help change lives

Support the City's Give Dignity campaign by donating essential items and not cash to those in need

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/City-Connect/Get-involved/Donate/give-dignity-to-change-lives"><img alt="" src="/_layouts/15/IMAGES/icgen.gif">give-dignity-to-change-lives</a>

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2019/2020 Tariffs

Find out about the latest tariffs that affect you

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/local%20and%20communities/meet-the-city/the-city-budget/city-wide-tariffs"><img alt="" src="/_layouts/15/IMAGES/icgen.gif">city-wide-tariffs</a>

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submit a building plan

If you are planning any building work on a property, you may need to submit a building plan for approval.

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/City-Connect/Apply/Planning-building-and-development/Building-plan-applications/Apply-for-a-building-plan"><img alt="" src="/_layouts/15/IMAGES/icgen.gif">Apply-for-a-building-plan</a>

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Apply for replacement wheelie bin

The City will replace or repair a damaged or stolen wheelie bin free of charge.

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/City-Connect/Apply/Municipal-services/solid-waste/Apply-for-replacement-wheelie-bin" target="_blank">Apply-for-replacement-wheelie-bin</a>

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Pay and renew your vehicle licence

There are a number of different options you can use when paying for and renewing your vehicle licence renewal.

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/City-Connect/Pay/Driving-and-vehicles/Vehicle-licences/Pay-your-vehicle-licence" target="_blank">Pay-your-vehicle-licence</a>

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Dam levels

The dam levels are critical for Cape Town’s water supply and are a key contributor to the Day Zero water dashboard

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20home/residential-utility-services/residential-water-and-sanitation-services/this-weeks-dam-levels">this-weeks-dam-levels</a>

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Apply for new or replacement driver's licence

Find out how to get a new or replacement driver’s licence.

<a href="http://www.capetown.gov.za/City-Connect/Apply/Licences-and-permits/Driving-and-vehicles/Apply-for-new-or-replacement-drivers-licence">Apply-for-new-or-replacement-drivers-licence</a>

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