15/06/2026
Endumeni Municipality Intensifies Business Compliance Inspections
Endumeni Local Municipality today conducted a large-scale business compliance inspection across the Dundee Central Business District (CBD) and Sibongile Township following a stakeholder briefing held earlier in the morning at the Endumeni Council Chamber.
The briefing brought together key stakeholders, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), municipal law enforcement officials, councillors, Endumeni officials, district municipality representatives, community members, and representatives from Make Endumeni Live Again, a local community organisation committed to promoting accountability, economic growth, and community development within the municipality.
The inspection operation was led by His Worship the Mayor, Cllr Mcebo Mkhize, and focused on ensuring compliance with municipal by-laws, trading regulations, and public safety requirements.
More than 20 businesses were inspected during the operation. Preliminary findings revealed that approximately 99% of the stores visited were operating without valid trading permits, in direct contravention of municipal by-laws. Most of the businesses inspected were owned and operated by foreign nationals.
Municipal officials also identified several fire safety concerns, including fire extinguishers that had not been serviced for extended periods, with some last serviced in 2022. These findings raised concerns regarding the safety of business owners, employees, customers, and neighbouring properties.
As a result of the non-compliance identified, affected businesses were instructed to cease operations immediately until they obtain the necessary permits and comply with all municipal requirements.
Particular attention was also given to second-hand goods dealers, especially businesses trading in cellphones and furniture. SAPS officials emphasized that such businesses are legally required to be registered with the South African Police Service in terms of legislation regulating the second-hand goods industry.
Speaking during the operation, Mayor Mkhize reaffirmed the municipalityโs commitment to enforcing by-laws fairly and consistently to create a safe, orderly, and economically vibrant business environment.
โThese inspections are aimed at ensuring that all businesses operate legally and comply with municipal regulations. Compliance is critical in creating a fair trading environment, protecting consumers, and supporting local economic development,โ said Mayor Mkhize.
The municipality has urged all business owners operating within Endumeni to regularise their operations by obtaining valid trading permits and ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation and municipal by-laws.
The compliance inspections will continue throughout the municipality as part of ongoing efforts to uphold municipal regulations, improve public safety, and promote a culture of lawful business practices within Endumeni.