Temporary structures
Temporary structures refer to tents, construction sheds, stalls, and so on, which are not permanently erected. You will often find temporary structures at events, informal trading markets, building sites.
Temporary construction structures
To ensure public safety, you will need permission to erect a temporary structure. And, depending on where and what you are using it for, the process for securing permission will be slightly different.
A temporary construction structure should be applied for as part of a building plan application. Builders and contractors are usually permitted to erect a temporary site office or a builder’s shed on site for storage, if permission has already been obtained.
See
Building plan applications for details about the processes and regulations you need to comply with.
Temporary structures at events
Temporary structures such as tents, stands, stages, exhibitions and stalls, and so on must comply with event safety regulations and must be processed by the
Events Department.
If you are planning on holding an event, make sure you have applied for an event permit, if you need one. Your application for temporary structures will be part of your application.
We recommend that you consult with the
Events Department before you start planning your event to make sure you are compliant with, and fully understand, the application process.
See
how to hold a large event or find step by step instructions on how to apply for an event permit by following the City Connect link below.
Hawking and informal trading structures
Please note
There are very strict health and safety rules in place for selling food and drinks in public – for more information see
Rules for informal traders or download it from the document download section.
Anyone selling food or items from a stall or temporary vending structure in public environments in Cape Town has to have a valid business licence. Your licence gives you permission to use your temporary structure and any equipment, and also gives you permission to the site in which the stall or structure is placed.
To get a license, you will need to complete a standard business licence application and stipulate that you will be trading informally. Please note, if you are also going to be selling or preparing food, you will need to have other health and safety documents in place.
See
Informal trading for more information or find step by step instructions by following the City Connect link below.
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