About

The City’s Biodiversity Management Branch (BMB) is responsible for the protection and conservation of all biodiversity in City nature reserves and conservation areas. The Ecological Management Committee (EMC) reviews requests and issues landowners’ permission for any ecological and/or biological research undertaken at a City nature reserve or conservation area managed by the BMB.

The BMB is the management authority of many of the City’s protected areas. It is mandated to ensure that our nature reserves are managed appropriately and all activities that may affect the reserves, their biodiversity or other user groups need to be carefully considered.

The BMB has the right to refuse landowners’ permission even if the applicant is in possession of valid CapeNature permits. We urge you to submit your complete application timeously, and include a thorough assessment of any potential impacts and proposed mitigation associated with the proposal.

Requirements

This application process is only for the following tertiary education levels:

• Advanced degree (BTECH)
• Advanced diploma
• Degree
• Diploma
• Honours
• Work integrated learning (WIL) / third year practical

For masters, doctorate and post doctorate research, please submit a research request online.

The EMC will review your application to ensure:

• the application complies with relevant legislation
• potential negative ecological or social impacts are adequately addressed
• unnecessary and/or excessive negative impacts to fauna, flora or habitat are avoided
• ethical concerns are addressed

We will not permit the following aspects or methodology in City protected areas:

• Incorrect, lapsed, or lack of appropriate CapeNature and/or Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE) Permits.
• Removal of fauna or floral from a site, where the ability of the species population to absorb the impact is not known and where there is insufficient mitigation against death, disease or injury.
• Research that BMB considers not to benefit the conservation of biodiversity or align with the principles of best practice.
• Significant negative impacts to habitat or ecosystems.
• Bioprospecting or collections of plants/animals for profit or commercial activities.

Apply

Follow the steps below to apply:

• Step 1: Apply to CapeNature and/or the National Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) for a permit
  

• Step 2: Download and complete the BMB Landowners’ Permission Application Form

• Step 3: Email the completed form, together with all required supporting documentation, to the Information and Knowledge Coordinator (IKCO) at Penelope.glanville@capetown.gov.za

The EMC and relevant reserve management staff will review your application and communicate any requirements and recommendations to the Information and Knowledge Coordinator.

Once your application is compliant and you have met all the requirements, a decision will be generated (within 21 days), and you will be informed of the outcome. If your application is approved, you will need to complete an indemnity form before you can begin your research.

Document downloads

• 1. Biodiversity Management: Landowners’ Permission to Conduct Research at City Nature Reserves and Conservation Areas Application Form

     11/12/2024, Application form - 392.4 KB