MEDIA RELEASE George Municipality strengthens water resilience with streamlined rainwater harvesting tank application process
Executive Mayor Browen Johnson at George Municipality’s newly refurbished offices at 46 Market Street, formerly the York Hostel— now a modern municipal hub located near the GO GEORGE transport hub, featuring rainwater harvesting tanks to support sustainable water management
In response to the current Level 2 Water Demand Management measures, the Executive Mayor of George Local Municipality has announced a practical and proactive step to strengthen water resilience across the municipal area The Directorate Planning and Development has formalised a Rainwater Harvesting Tanks Application process to facilitate and regulate the installation of rainwater harvesting systems on properties in George. This initiative encourages responsible water management while reducing pressure on the municipal water supply.
“Water security remains one of our top priorities. By making provision for a clear and accessible rainwater tank application process, we are empowering residents and developers to become partners in building a more water-wise George,” said the Excecutive Mayor, Browen Johnson. “It is a practical intervention that supports both compliance and sustainability.”
George Municipality’s commitment to water conservation is longstanding. In 2009, Council approved a comprehensive Water Demand Management (WDM) Policy requiring specific water-saving measures for all new developments. These include pressure management, metering, water-efficient fittings, leakage control, indigenous gardens and the installation of rainwater harvesting tanks in residential developments.
All new land use applications and building plans remain subject to Water Demand Management conditions, and compliance is required before occupation certificates are issued. The Municipal Spatial Development Framework, aligned with national policy, emphasizes that in water-stressed areas water demand must be reduced, infrastructure must be protected, and growth must be carefully managed.
For new private residences, a 5 000ℓ rainwater harvesting tank must form part of approved building plans, with provision since 2011 for smaller tanks (minimum 2 500ℓ) where site constraints apply. These conditions have consistently been applied in building plan approvals over the years, and no building may be signed off or occupied unless the required Water Demand Management measures are implemented.
To respond to current water challenges and strengthen resilience, rainwater harvesting tanks are classified as Minor Building Works and require approval through the Rainwater Harvesting Tanks Application process in terms of the Municipal Building Control By-law and the National Building Regulations. No land use planning permission is required unless the tank is positioned within the building line and exceeds the height of the boundary wall. Municipal tariffs currently exempt rainwater tank applications from fees, and the Building Control Office has issued clear guidelines to assist property owners with correct positioning and the application process.
While no amnesty or exemption from compliance with the National Building Regulations can be granted, the Municipality will waive penalties related to the timing of the application should a tank have been installed before formal approval – although installation remains at the owner’s risk until approved.
Managing growth of the city remains complex, particularly with significant housing demand in the municipal area. The Municipality continues to focus on protecting ecological infrastructure, promoting responsible development, and encouraging behavioural change among all residents.
“Infrastructure alone cannot solve our water challenges. Every resident can contribute by using water more responsibly and investing in solutions such as rainwater harvesting for irrigation and other non-potable uses,” said Ald Johnson. “George Municipality remains committed to practical, forward-looking solutions that strengthen water security while supporting responsible growth and environmental protection.”
📞 Contact our Building Control Office:
* Phone: 044 801 9370 / 044 801 9166 / 044 801 9019 (Building Control)
* mdyakop@george.gov.za / pmlingani@george.gov.za / smoshani@george.gov.za