When an application arises, CRA:

1. Obtains the full documentation.
2. Engages a professional town planner for review.
3. Assesses cumulative neighbourhood impact.
4. Publishes a structured webpage with guidance and deadlines.
5. In some cases, opens a dedicated WhatsApp group via circulated link.
6. We do not object automatically.
7. We intervene where planning merit requires it.
8. Professional review is funded by contributing members.

You do not need to be the owner of the property in which you reside. You may object if you are:

• A property owner
• A tenant
• A resident of the suburb
• An interested and affected party

Each person must submit an individual objection. NB: petitions count as one objection.

Applications are evaluated on planning merit — not popularity. The Tribunal considers:

1. Need: Is the development justified in this location and at this scale?
2. Desirability: Is it compatible with the surrounding neighbourhood?
3. Public Interest: Can infrastructure support it? Is cumulative impact acceptable?

A strong objection engages directly with these three tests.

6.1. Subject Line (Mandatory)

Example: Objection to Rezoning Application – Erf 203 Dunkeld West Extension 2 – Ref: 20/11/4567

Include:

• Application type
• Erf number
• Application reference number (sometimes this is not available) 

6.2. Where to Submit

Email: objectionsplanning@joburg.org.za

Copy:

• Applicant’s town planner (this must be done to increase compliance).
• townplanning@cra.org.za

Retain proof of submission.

6.3 What a Good Objection Contains

A strong objection:

• Identifies the application clearly
• States your standing (resident, tenant, etc.)
• Engages with need, desirability and public interest
• Is factual and structured
• Avoids emotion and personal attacks

It does not need to be long. Clarity is more persuasive than volume.

6.4 Example Objection Wording

Residents must adapt this wording to the specific application.

Subject:

Objection to Rezoning Application – Erf 203 Dunkeld West Extension 2 – Ref: 20/11/4567

Body:

To: Executive Director: Development Planning

City of Johannesburg

I, [Full Name], residing at [Full Physical Address], hereby submit a formal objection to the above-mentioned application in terms of the City of Johannesburg Municipal Planning By-Laws, 2016 and SPLUMA.

This objection relates to:

• Property: Erf [Number], [Suburb]
• Application Reference: [Insert Reference]

I am an interested and affected party as a resident of the area.

1. Lack of Demonstrated Need

The application does not adequately demonstrate a planning need for the proposed scale of development in this location. The proposed density/height/intensity materially exceeds the established pattern of development and appears disproportionate.

2. Undesirability in Context

The proposal is undesirable in its current form due to incompatibility with the surrounding residential character. The height, bulk and scale would materially alter the streetscape and contribute to cumulative over-intensification.

3. Public Interest Concerns

The application does not sufficiently demonstrate confirmed infrastructure capacity, particularly in respect of sewer/electricity/road capacity. Approval may contribute to cumulative strain on municipal infrastructure.

In light of the above, I respectfully request that the application be refused, alternatively materially restricted.

I request notification of any Municipal Planning Tribunal hearing.

Yours faithfully,

[Full Name, Full Physical Address, Email Address and Contact Number]

The City consolidates objections and may refer the matter to the Municipal Planning Tribunal. If a hearing is scheduled, you may attend and make oral representations.  The typical timeline for an MPT from date of closing of objections is nine (9) months.

If a property is already operating unlawfully, report separately to:

• Building Inspector: LabanN@joburg.org.za
• Zoning Compliance: MarupingC@joburg.org.za

Objections and enforcement are separate processes.