New Borehole Drilling Regulations in Johannesburg

Starting 1 October 2025, the Johannesburg City Council will introduce new rules for borehole drilling. These changes update the current application process and add several new requirements for anyone planning to drill a borehole.

New Additional Requirements

To get consent for a new borehole, applicants must now include:

1. Certified copy of the property owner’s ID
2. Last 3 months of Johannesburg Water statements
3. Geophysical survey report
4. Water use category
5. Water demand estimate
6. Borehole coordinates
7. Discharge location
8. Water quality reports
9. Pump details

Existing Requirements

The existing documents are still needed, including:

• Covering letter
• Completed “Form A”
• Power of attorney (if applicant is not the owner)
• Company resolution (if applicable)
• Copy of title deed
• Bond holder’s consent (if the property has a mortgage)
• Motivating memorandum
• Zoning and density plan
• Land use plan
• Details of existing land use and development
• Detailed site plan showing borehole location
• At least two building elevation drawings

Note: Commercial applications may require additional information.

Who Handles Applications?

All applications are now processed by the Environment and Infrastructure Services Department (EISD) of the City of Johannesburg.

Application Costs for Domestic Use

(These costs exclude the actual drilling fees)

1. Application fee to EISD – R 1,240.00
2. Geophysical report – from R 5,000.00
3. Site plan and application assistance – from R 13,000.00

Processing Time and Benefits

The EISD has committed to processing applications within 14 working days, whether approved or declined.
The required geophysical report can help determine if there is likely to be water underground, saving money by avoiding failed drilling attempts. However, applications in areas with unstable ground, such as dolomite, will be declined.

How GEOMETRICS Can Help

At GEOMETRICS, we can handle the full process on your behalf – from preparing site plans and elevations to completing and submitting your application to local authorities.

Email: info@geometricsdesign.co.za
Cell: 083 294 4419

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help or more information about the new borehole application process.