Material does not exempt it
The Act says nobody may erect a building that needs plans without the council's written approval, and SANS 10400-A defines a building to include any structure, whether temporary or permanent and whatever it is made of, used for people, animals or goods. A Nutec house, a converted shipping container, a log cabin or a prefab unit used as a home is a building. Councils treat putting one on a stand as building work, so confirm with yours before you buy.
The extra step for non-standard systems
The building regulations can be met in three ways: following the standard (deemed-to-satisfy) rules, a rational design by a competent person such as an engineer, or building to an Agrément certificate. Agrément South Africa issues certificates confirming that a non-standard building system is fit for purpose.
So for most prefab, log and container homes the plans need either:
- a valid Agrément certificate for that exact system, or
- a rational design signed by a competent person
Johannesburg's checklist asks for an Agrément certificate for alternative construction methods where it applies. Ask the supplier which one their system has before you buy.
Zoning still applies
A second unit on the stand is usually treated as a second dwelling under the zoning, which your council's scheme may limit. See granny flats.
Questions people ask
Do I need plans for a Nutec house?
Yes. It is a building under the Act whatever it is made of. The plans also need the system's Agrément certificate or a rational design.
Does a container home need building plans?
Yes. A container used as a home is a building. A conversion that does not follow the standard building rules needs an engineer's rational design or an Agrément-certified system. Ask your council which applies.
Sources
- National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act 103 of 1977 (the dtic copy)
- SANS 10400-A:2010, Regulations A1 and A2 (minor building work)
- City of Johannesburg CPMS submission checklists (minor works list)
Checked October 2026. Councils change their tariffs every July, so confirm fees before you pay.