Spaza shop registration in 2026: step-by-step
Registration is free but takes a few trips. Here's what to bring and what to expect at each stage.
The basic process
- Register a company (Pty Ltd) on bizportal.gov.za. Takes about a week and costs R175.
- Get a tax number from SARS. Free, done online or at a branch.
- Apply for your municipal business licence under the Business Act. This is the step that varies by municipality.
- Register with the local ward councillor or community forum where required.
- Open a business bank account. Most banks need the CIPC certificate.
Documents to bring
- South African ID or valid permit
- Proof of address for the shop (lease or municipal bill)
- Proof of your home address
- CIPC company registration certificate
- Tax number
- Photos of the shop layout (some municipalities ask for this)
How it differs by municipality
- City of Johannesburg. Apply at your regional office. Expect 2 to 4 weeks. They may inspect the shop before approval.
- eThekwini (Durban). Business Support Unit handles applications. Add a health certificate if you sell food.
- City of Cape Town. Apply through the sub-council office. Zoning approval is usually the slowest step.
- Ekurhuleni and Tshwane. Similar to Joburg. Community forums are often involved and may want to meet you first.
Common mistakes that delay approval
- Trading before registration. Fines start at R1 000.
- Registering the shop address in your personal name only.
- Missing zoning approval. Some residential areas need special permission.
- No health certificate when selling cooked food.
Once you have the licence, keep a laminated copy on the wall of the shop. That alone stops most inspection issues.