The City of Johannesburg is introducing a revised process for borehole drilling applications, effective from 1 October 2025.
New applications will be managed directly by the city’s Environment and Infrastructure Services Department (EISD), and not the Development Planning Department. This is part of the city’s ongoing commitment to managing groundwater responsibly, protecting the environment and public infrastructure, while ensuring equitable access to water resources for all residents.
City of Johannesburg’s Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Environment & Infrastructure Services Department (EISD), Councillor Jack Sekwaila says: “This change comes after residents, businesses and industry stakeholders raised concerns about delays in the current application process. The new process will cut unnecessary administration and circulation steps by directing applications to the EISD, which is the mandated representative Water Services Authority in the city and delegated to oversee implementation of the Water Services Act (WSA), National Water Act and the National Environmental Management Act.”
MMC Sekwaila outlined the key improvements as:
- Shortened turnaround time as applications will be finalised within 14 working days.
- Drilling certificates will be issued to approved applicants. The certificate must be kept on site and presented on request during drilling to inspectors or JMPD officers.
- New application email address from 1 October 2025, when applications will be submitted directly to the EISD is boreholeapplications@joburg.org.za
“I must stress that no drilling may begin without official approval and the drilling certificate must be visible on site,” says MMC Sekwaila.
Transition arrangements:
- Applications submitted to the Department of Planning before 1 October 2025 will continue under the old system until finalised. Applicants do not need to resubmit.
- Applications lodged from 1 October 2025 must be submitted directly to the EISD.
Residents or businesses that drill without approval or a valid drilling certificate, risk enforcement action, including fines, an immediate order to stop work, and impoundment of drilling equipment.
For more information on the process or to apply from 1 October 2025, email boreholeapplications@joburg.org.za.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Why is the process changing?
To allow borehole applications to be scrutinised by technical experts within the EISD thus reducing turnaround times for approval.
2. Do I need to reapply if I already applied before 1 October 2025?
No. Applications submitted will continue to be processed under the old system until finalised.
3. Who do I send my application to from 1 October 2025?
Applications must be emailed directly to boreholeapplications@joburg.org.za
4. How long will it take to process my application?
Applications received from 1 October 2025 will be processed within 14 working days.
5. What is a drilling certificate?
It is an official approval issued by the City. It must be kept on site during drilling and shown to inspectors or contractors on request.
6. What happens if I drill without approval or without a certificate on site?
This is unlawful. You may face fines and be ordered to stop drilling immediately. Residents can report any suspicious drilling activity to 011 790 1172/ 011 490 1630.
7. Does this affect existing boreholes?
No. Borehole applications that were lawfully approved before will remain valid. The new process applies only to new applications lodged from 1 October 2025.
SUPPLIED.
