The national limits
The minor building work list includes:
| Structure | Limit |
|---|---|
| Tool shed | up to 10 m² |
| Cycle shed | up to 5 m² |
| Greenhouse | up to 15 m² |
| Poultry house | up to 10 m² |
| Aviary | up to 20 m² |
| Solid fuel store | up to 10 m², 2 m high |
| Change room at a private pool | up to 10 m² |
A listed structure of 5 m² or less (a small tool or cycle shed) needs neither plans nor an application under the national regulations. Between 5 m² and the limit, the council can exempt it from plans but you apply first. Johannesburg handles all of these by motivation letter on its minor works form, so check with your council. Above the limit, it needs plans. A shed used for anything other than storage is not minor work at all.
A shed still has to respect building lines and servitudes, and must be used for what it is.
Sources
- SANS 10400-A:2010, Regulations A1 and A2 (minor building work)
- City of Johannesburg CPMS submission checklists (minor works list)
- City of Johannesburg minor works exemption form
Checked October 2026. Councils change their tariffs every July, so confirm fees before you pay.