As residents of towns in the Langeberg are trying to find ways to cope with the water restrictions, the Langeberg Municipality has warned that it is illegal to sell water for irrigation and other purposes.
In a statement it said that water is a national resource held in trust by the State and may not be privately owned, sold or traded. Water use authorisations do not allow holders to sell or transfer water to third parties.
“The Water Services Act, 108 of 1997, further provides that no person may supply water to others without the written approval of the relevant Water Services Authority.”
The municipality’s Water Services by-law stipulates that only the municipality or an authorised water services provider may supply water. The unauthorised use, transfer, or sale of municipal water is an offence and may result in fines, enforcement action, and the restriction or disconnection of water services.
Residents should take note that the transportation of water, even when it is a donation, may be illegal unless authorised. “Humanitarian or emergency donations are considered only on a case-by-case basis and require prior written approval from the municipality to ensure compliance with legislation and water quality standards,” it said. Residents are requested to report any suspected unlawful water trading or unauthorised water transportation. The municipality requested that residents take photos that shows a visible vehicle registration number, if possible.
“The municipality will take all necessary steps to ensure compliance with applicable legislation,” the statement read.
