Why a lapa needs plans
A lapa is not on the list of minor building work, and it is a roofed structure, so it falls under the normal rules. SANS 10400-T defines a lapa as a thatched-roof building used for recreation, with no walls or with non-combustible walls.
Thatch and fire
SANS 10400-T sets distances for thatched lapas. A freestanding thatched lapa with under 20 m² of roof must be at least 1 m from any boundary, and at the safety distance from other buildings unless a freestanding masonry or concrete wall is built (higher than 0.3 m above the bottom of the roof and extending 1 m past it on each side). A thatched lapa against an existing building has to be assessed by a fire-engineering competent person. Lapas with a thatched roof over 300 m², or closer than 4.5 m to a boundary (or the safety distance from another building, if that is greater), need additional fire protection.
Thatch is also something to check with your insurer.
Sources
- SANS 10400-T:2011, fire protection (thatched lapas)
- SANS 10400-A:2010, Regulations A1 and A2 (minor building work)
Checked October 2026. Councils change their tariffs every July, so confirm fees before you pay.