Our vision for the city

Think water

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Cape Town is experiencing a serious water shortage due to insufficient rainfall and fast declining dam levels. We all need to THINK WATER.

<a href="https://www.capetown.gov.za/thinkwater ">thinkwater </a>

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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="https://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="https://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="https://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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Indigent grants

You can apply for an indigent grant to help pay rates, service charges or City housing rental payments.

<a href="https://www.capetown.gov.za/local%20and%20communities/financial-relief-and-rebates/our-approach-to-financial-support/indigent-grants">indigent-grants</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="https://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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Going solar in the home

Installing renewable energy in your home could result in lower electricity costs and contribute to a more sustainable Cape Town.

<a href="https://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20home/greener-living/saving-electricity-at-home/go-solar-in-the-home">go-solar-in-the-home</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="https://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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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="https://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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Load-shedding
Advertising on City assets
Saving water in your business or organisation
Water and sanitation services for business

Masiphumelele commuters to benefit from new taxi facility early in 2019

The City of Cape Town is spending approximately R13,8 million on the new minibus-taxi facility for commuters from Masiphumelele

The City of Cape Town is spending approximately R13,8 million on the new minibus-taxi facility for commuters from Masiphumelele.‘The project commenced in May this year. I drive past this site almost every day and have been keeping an eye on the progress. I’m pleased to say that the contractor is on track to complete the new facility by the end of February next year. This is good news as we are heading into the builders’ holiday period, meaning about 3 300 commuters from Masiphumelele will be using this brand new facility early in 2019,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Transport and Urban Development, Alderman Felicity Purchase.Approximately 60 minibus-taxis will operate from the new facility, which will serve commuters travelling to and from Simon’s Town, Fish Hoek, Noordhoek, and Kommetjie. <figure class="subtopic-fullsize-img"> <img class="responsive" src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Centre/masi%20rank1.jpg" alt="" /> </figure>‘It’s important to mention that, apart from the new transport infrastructure, the local residents and sub-contractors are also benefitting from temporary employment opportunities and tenders. In fact, at least R461 000 has been spent to date on temporary work opportunities for local residents. A further R230 000 has been spent to date on the procurement of goods and services from local sub-contractors from the area,’ said Alderman Purchase.The minibus-taxi operators are currently operating from Erf 1728 – a vacant erf with no services or facilities for commuters and operators. Local residents are exposed to wind, sun, and rain while they are waiting for taxis, and there are no ablution facilities or safe walkways. The new minibus-taxi facility will provide residents with a safe and dignified area for waiting and connecting with their fellow commuters. <figure class="subtopic-fullsize-img"> <img class="responsive" src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Centre/masi%20rank2.jpg" alt="" /> </figure>‘Residents must take a closer look at the administration building that is almost completed. It has a modern look and feel, and is a dignified space where operators and management can conduct meetings. The drop-off and pick-up facilities will have roofed coverings which are already visible on the site. Furthermore, there will be universally accessible walking lanes for safe and easy access to the facility. Apart from ablution facilities, we will also create a waiting area for commuters who are travelling long distance,’ said Alderman Purchase. <figure class="subtopic-fullsize-img"> <img class="responsive" src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Centre/masi%20rank3.jpg" alt="" /> </figure>The upgrade of the stormwater system in Pokela Road will help prevent the flooding of the road in the rainy season.‘Given our experience during the drought, and the current load-shedding imposed by Eskom, we are also focusing on preserving our scarce resources. The facility will be equipped with a rooftop solar photo-voltaic (PV) panel system for electricity generation. Also, part of the plan is to sink a borehole for non-potable water uses at the facility, and then we’ll also collect rainwater from the roof which will be stored in tanks,’ said Alderman Purchase. End

2018-12-11T22:00:00Z

City's Muizenberg pool gets its own water source

More than 1,5 million people use the City’s public swimming pools annually and, with water conservation still a priority

'More than 1,5 million people use the City’s public swimming pools annually and, with water conservation still a priority, the Recreation and Parks Department has put plans in place to open 17 of the 35 municipal swimming pools during the peak summer season. 'In addition, the department has cemented its commitment to conserving water and has started implementing plans to reduce the dependency on potable water to maintain the swimming pools,' said the City's Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security; and Social Services, Alderman JP Smith. <figure class="subtopic-fullsize-img"> <img class="responsive" src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Centre/muizenberg%20pools1.jpg" alt="" /> </figure>With this in mind, the department is continually looking at innovative ways of conserving water while still providing quality amenities to help residents cool off during the summer heat. 'Initially, the plan was to draw salt water as an alternative water source for the Muizenberg pool, but drilling for a well point resulted in finding good quality fresh water instead, which will also be used for irrigation,' explained Alderman Smith.An additional well point was drilled to serve the purpose of a water collection point which operates independently and the water will be used to top up other operational swimming pools. The cost of drilling the well point was just over R400 000 and the scope of work included drilling several well points, connecting them to the water tanks and then into the plant. <figure class="subtopic-fullsize-img"> <img class="responsive" src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Centre/muizenberg%20pools2.jpg" alt="" /> </figure>Additional work that must still be done includes cutting into the perimeter fence to install an access gate, while a custom fitting will be installed for the stand pipe which connects to the department’s water trucks.Muizenberg has five seasonal lifeguards and one seasonal senior lifeguard on duty. In addition, new equipment at the pool includes a spinal board with head blocks and harness, a shade cover for lifeguards and four wrap-around lifesaving devices.The pool reopened on 1 December 2018 and will close again on 2 February 2019.'All our operational swimming pools have been fitted with two 10 000-litre plastic tanks that are used to backwash and filter water that is circulated back into the swimming pool for re-use. By doing this, the City is saving a substantial amount of water that would have been lost,' said Alderman Smith. <figure class="subtopic-fullsize-img"> <img class="responsive" src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Centre/muizenberg%20pools3.jpg" alt="" /> </figure>Careful consideration went into selecting which facilities to open this summer. Some of the criteria included the accessibility of the facilities and their location in relation to transport routes, but also to ensure equal representation across the four areas of the city.The Recreation and Parks Department works closely with law enforcement to ensure the safety of all swimming pool users, while lifeguards will not only be on duty at the pools but also at the Camps Bay, Maiden’s Cove, Mobwabisi, Sparks Bay, Harmony Park, Strandfontein and St James tidal pools. Bathers and visitors to the City's swimming pools are reminded of the following:<ul><li><div style="text-align:left;">Obey pool rules and lifeguard instructions</div></li><li><div style="text-align:left;">Load-shedding impacts on the operations and water quality and, should water quality be compromised, patrons may be asked to leave the water</div></li><li><div style="text-align:left;">Swimming in the proper bathing attire assists in maintaining the water quality for longer</div></li><li><div style="text-align:left;">Showers at swimming pools and beaches are still off limits to preserve water</div></li></ul>'We need our visitors to help us keep water usage to a minimum. Showers at all public amenities and ablutions will be switched off and waterless hand sanitizers will be provided at most public washrooms,' said Alderman Smith. For a list of pools that are open, as well as their <a href="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/documentcentre/Documents/Forms%2c%20notices%2c%20tariffs%20and%20lists/CCTSwimmingPoolsSchedule-20182019.pdf">operational times</a>. End

2018-12-11T22:00:00Z

Cape Town Summer Market set to cater for everyone

Following on from previous years, the Cape Town Summer Market will once again cater for visitors of all ages.

The Cape Town Summer Market will take place from 19 – 23 December 2018 in <a href="https://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20home/See-all-city-facilities/Our-recreational-facilities/District%20parks/The%20Company%27s%20Garden">the Company's Garden</a> and will be open to the public between 18:00 and 23:00 on each day.'The zones that cater for a broad range of interests and ages have proven to be very popular and will be a feature again this year. This format works well for a family-oriented event. This year sees many new additions including a revamped kids' zone with carnival-style rides and fun area, more food trucks and even a ladies' spa and wellness zone that will give families the opportunity to relax and enjoy quality time together,' said the City's Mayoral Committee Member for Area North, Alderman Grant Twigg.Last year a local talent competition, designed to make the market memorable and get the crowds involved, was added to the event. This competition gives our up-and-coming talent the platform to perform and celebrates the uniqueness and diversity of Cape Town's people and culture. One of our home-grown talents will walk away with R30 000 worth of prizes.Auditions are currently under way and those who qualify for the next round will compete live on stage at the summer market. On the final night of the event's Summer Song Contest, the top three contestants will compete for the prize and hometown glory.Last-minute shoppers looking for that special something will have the opportunity to shop along Government Avenue and find a gift from one of the stalls that will have a variety of products on offer. 'I believe we have a winning formula for the Cape Town Summer Market. Looking back at last year's numbers, we are confident that this year's event will once again be popular. While residents are out and about, they should not forget to stop over in Adderley Street to admire the stunning festive lights as well.' 'The summer market is a celebration of food, culture and fellowship so whether you're looking for arts, crafts, gifts, or just a relaxing time with loved ones, this is the place to be. If it's entertainment you're after then the Summer Song Contest is not to be missed as the best singers do battle for the top prize. Residents and visitors are urged to come down to the Company's Garden and enjoy the 2018 Cape Town Summer Market,' added Alderman Twigg.

2018-12-10T22:00:00Z

Collaboration key to bringing ‘crime on the go’ to a halt

The City of Cape Town appeals to motorists to be on the lookout for opportunistic criminals when they’re on the road.

Jakes Gerwel Drive has the dubious distinction of being a known hotspot for smash-and-grab crimes. Statistics between May and October 2018 show that the number of incidents has remained static compared to the same period in 2015. Of the 143 smash-and-grab incidents or attempts recorded by CCTV operators, nearly 90% (126) occurred between the N2 off-ramp to Jakes Gerwel Drive and Jakkalsvlei Avenue into Bonteheuwel. There were four arrests during the period in review.In Bishop Lavis, the intersection of Robert Sobukwe Road and 35th Avenue has become known for theft out of motor vehicles. The modus operandi has criminals targeting motorists whose windows are open or doors are unlocked and reaching into the vehicles to grab cellphones and other valuables within reach.There was a total of 120 incidents recorded between May and October 2018.‘What’s interesting is that the number of incidents in Bishop Lavis dropped to zero in October after sustained efforts between the two local police stations and the City. Known perpetrators were profiled and warned by the SAPS teams and this strategy seems to have paid off. The City also has surveillance cameras in the area. <img class="responsive" src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Centre/SAFETYAWARENESS-jp.jpg" alt="" /> ‘It therefore makes sense to have a sustained presence in an area, but we do not have the resources to do that. I would hazard a guess and say the same applies to SAPS. With all of the competing priorities for policing, it is impossible to be everywhere and that is why the public’s role in this is so crucial,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security; and Social Services, Alderman JP Smith.Motorists are urged to be mindful irrespective of where they find themselves. While the roads in question are problematic, the reality is that criminals will strike anywhere that presents an easy getaway.‘The informal settlement along Jakes Gerwel Drive is a prime example. It means that criminals can disappear very quickly; and there is high pedestrian footfall, so motorists don’t always see the attack coming. It might be the case that an engineering solution like fencing is the best way to curb these types of incidents, although that would be extremely costly.‘Another concern is the behaviour of motorists. During a recent awareness drive, a motorist indicated that she had been a two-time victim of a smash-and-grab, yet she was still driving with her handbag on the passenger seat. Smash-and-grab crimes are opportunistic in nature, so I once again urge motorists to ensure that they keep their valuables out of sight in the boot of their vehicle. They should also pay attention to their surroundings at all times,’ added Alderman Smith.Tips to reduce the risk of a smash-and-grab incident include:<ul><li>Keep valuables out of sight in the boot or underneath the seat</li><li>Lock all your doors, and close all windows</li><li>When approaching a red traffic light at night, slow down so that you will only reach the crossing when the light has already turned green. Be cautious, be vigilant, and know your surroundings</li><li>Be wary of people loitering about at traffic lights or intersections. They may be innocent, but perpetrators usually mix with them while waiting for an opportunity to pounce. Be alert, and do not take pamphlets from or get into discussions with vendors at intersections</li></ul>Smash-and-grab incidents can be reported to the nearest police station or the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre by dialling 021 480 7700 from a cellphone or 107 from a landline. End

2018-12-10T22:00:00Z

All City online services and applications

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Top City Connect services

Service Requests/Report a Fault (C3)

Apply for exemption from water restrictions

All water users are encouraged to save water and adhere to water restrictions, but exemption is approved in special circumstances.

<a href="https://www.capetown.gov.za/City-Connect/Apply/Municipal-services/Water-and-sanitation/Apply-for-exemption-from-water-restrictions">Apply-for-exemption-from-water-restrictions</a>

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Saving water in the home

Water is a precious resource and since we are in the midst of a serious drought we all have to learn how to use it carefully. Every action each of us takes to save water in our home makes a difference!

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

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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="https://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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Saving water in your business or organisation

Water is a precious resource and since we are in the midst of a serious drought we all have to learn how to use it carefully. Every action each of us takes to save water makes a difference!

<a href="https://www.capetown.gov.za/work%20and%20business/commercial-utility-services/commercial-water-and-sanitation-services/saving-water-in-your-business-or-organisation">saving-water-in-your-business-or-organisation</a>

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Alternative and recycled water sources for your organisation

The City is promoting the responsible use of alternative water sources that help to minimise the amount of drinking water used from our dams, which is important during a drought.

<a href="https://www.capetown.gov.za/work%20and%20business/commercial-utility-services/commercial-water-and-sanitation-services/alternative-and-recycled-water-sources-for-your-business-or-organisation">alternative-and-recycled-water-sources-for-your-business-or-organisation</a>

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Apply for replacement wheelie bin

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

<a href="https://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="https://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="https://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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Water map

The City of Cape Town’s water map provides information on household water use, treated effluent collection points and water pressure management zones.

<a href="https://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20home/residential-utility-services/residential-water-and-sanitation-services/cape-town-water-map">cape-town-water-map</a>

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