Heard about OccuMax® pricing?
You can earn up to 30% more with our unique pricing strategy. Developed from managing over 350,000 bookings, it runs entirely within local regulations and has already earned our hosts over £112 Million.
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FIND OUT MOREYou can earn up to 30% more with our unique pricing strategy. Developed from managing over 350,000 bookings, it runs entirely within local regulations and has already earned our hosts over £112 Million.
Short-stay, paid accommodation for visitors/tourists in a dwelling or part of a dwelling; assessed by use and intensity under the Land Use Scheme rather than a fixed “days” threshold.
Short-term lets are legal in Johannesburg, but they’re controlled through the City of Johannesburg Land Use Scheme (2018). Running a dwelling as visitor accommodation (guest house/B&B/“short-term accommodation”) will often need a Consent Use (material change of use) under the Scheme—requirements depend on your zoning and any overlays/conditions. There’s no citywide night cap or city STR register. Declare income to SARS; VAT registration becomes compulsory once taxable turnover exceeds R1,000,000 in any 12 months (voluntary registration possible below this). Comply with Emergency Management Services (EMS) fire-safety by-laws (extinguishers, signage, evacuation information, maintenance) and any conditions set by Development Planning.
Defined in municipal planning schemes (often as ‘transient/visitor accommodation’). Thresholds vary; some councils use ~30 days as a guide. Check local scheme.
Short-term lets are legal in Johannesburg, but they’re controlled through the City of Johannesburg Land Use Scheme (2018). Running a dwelling as visitor accommodation (guest house/B&B/“short-term accommodation”) will often need a Consent Use (material change of use) under the Scheme—requirements depend on your zoning and any overlays/conditions. There’s no citywide night cap or city STR register. Declare income to SARS; VAT registration becomes compulsory once taxable turnover exceeds R1,000,000 in any 12 months (voluntary registration possible below this). Comply with Emergency Management Services (EMS) fire-safety by-laws (extinguishers, signage, evacuation information, maintenance) and any conditions set by Development Planning.
Registration / Permit
No city STR register. Check your property’s zoning; apply for Consent Use to operate short-term accommodation where not otherwise permitted. Building/fire-safety compliance is required.
Max Nights
None locally; South Africa has no national night-cap rule.
Planning / Zoning
Timeframes vary with public participation and referrals—expect several weeks to a few months from a complete submission.
Safety & Insurance
Comply with EMS fire-safety by-laws: maintain appropriate fire-fighting equipment (e.g., extinguishers), signage and evacuation information; ensure installations are serviced; keep records; follow any conditions specified by EMS/Development Planning.
Tax
SARS income tax on rental profits. VAT 15% if taxable supplies > R1,000,000 in any 12 months. Municipal property rates + service charges per city (e.g., Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni).
SARS income tax on rental profits. VAT 15% if taxable supplies > R1,000,000 in any 12 months. Municipal property rates + service charges per city (e.g., Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni).
Comply with EMS fire-safety by-laws: maintain appropriate fire-fighting equipment (e.g., extinguishers), signage and evacuation information; ensure installations are serviced; keep records; follow any conditions specified by EMS/Development Planning.
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⭐ Rated 4.8/5 by 2,500+ Hosts
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National short-term-rental policy is still being finalised by the Department of Tourism; monitor updates to see if national thresholds or registration are introduced. City policy and fees are reviewed annually.
Defined in municipal planning schemes (often as ‘transient/visitor accommodation’). Thresholds vary; some councils use ~30 days as a guide. Check local scheme.
⭐ Rated 4.8/5 by 2,500+ Hosts
This guide is informational and not legal advice. Always confirm with
City of Johannesburg — Development Planning; Emergency Management Services (Fire Safety)
your local authority.
