Borehole Registration and Permit Requirements – Cape Town
If you’re drilling a borehole for personal, home use, you usually don’t need a permit. However, the City of Cape Town does require you to register the borehole once it’s drilled. If you’re going to use large amounts of water for farming or business, you may need a Water Use Licence from the Department of Water and Sanitation.
Do you need to permit or register a borehole with the City of Cape Town?
Yes – in Cape Town, you must register any borehole or wellpoint after it has been drilled. If you’re planning to drill a new borehole, the City requires that you notify them at least 14 days before the drilling begins. You’ll need to provide information such as the location, erf number, and intended use.
For domestic (home) use, you usually don’t need a national water-use licence. Borehole water used for your home and garden typically qualifies as ‘Schedule 1 use’ under national water regulations.
Where to find the official facts and guidelines
City of Cape Town – Register a borehole or wellpoint:
Apply to sink a borehole or wellpoint:
Cape Town Water By-Law Summary (PDF):
Department of Water and Sanitation (National Guidelines):
What this means for you
– Notify the City of Cape Town 14 days before drilling and submit the required information.
– Once the borehole is drilled, register it as required by the City’s by-laws.
– If your borehole is for home use only, a national licence is usually not needed.
– For larger use (e.g., farming or business), a Water Use Licence from the Department of Water and Sanitation may be necessary.
– Our team at Cape Decking has over 15 years of experience and can help guide you through the process.
