Regulation A1(f) makes "the erection of any solar water heater not exceeding 6 m² in area on any roof or 12 m² when erected other than on any roof" minor building work, so plans can be waived, but you apply to the council first. Johannesburg lists solar water heaters on its exemption list.
For new houses it works the other way round: SANS 10400-XA requires at least half of a new building's hot water heating to come from something other than an electric element, such as a solar geyser or heat pump.
Sources
- SANS 10400-A:2010, Regulations A1 and A2 (minor building work)
- City of Johannesburg CPMS submission checklists (minor works list)
- SANS 10400-XA:2011, energy usage in buildings
- Micrographics: SANS 10400-XA:2021 Edition 2 published
Checked October 2026. Councils change their tariffs every July, so confirm fees before you pay.