Development Applications

One of Plett Environmental Forum’s key activities is to analyse and comment on development applications in our area with regard to their potential environmental impact. This activity takes places within the framework of two specific acts and the foundational basis of the South African constitution:

The National Environmental Management Act (NEMA), 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) establishes key public participation requirements for development applications through its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations. These mandate notification of interested and affected parties (I&APs), public comment periods, and consideration of inputs for projects with potential environmental impacts, such as land development.

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Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA), 2013 (Act No. 16 of 2013) requires transparent public participation in spatial planning and land use decisions. It specifies procedures like public notices, meetings, and incorporation of community feedback to ensure inclusive development processes.

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Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 provides the foundational basis under sections 152(1)(e) and 195, obliging organs of state to foster community involvement in developmental matters, including applications for land use changes. These laws align with municipal by-laws but set the national framework