Cape Town: Moving towards legislated safety

The public was recently afforded the opportunity to comment on the City of Cape Town's 2007 Streets and Public Places By-law. Several changes are planned in order to improve the quality of life in your neighbourhood and to further define the enforcement powers of City officials, including penalties to prevent abuse.

The prohibitions in public places also apply to streets in your neighbourhood and extend the safety to your home. These include a variety of convictions against drinking or drug-use, starting and maintaining a fire and sleeping or camping overnight without permission, among many others.

The power vested in Cape Town's law enforcement officers has also been reviewed to limit potential abuse and improve the efficacy of policing the city's streets. "It is important to note that the powers of summons, ticket, arrest and search are those granted to law enforcement officers under the Criminal Procedure Act," says the City.

These latest By-law amendments have been selected to allow for a more streamlined process that supports effective complaint resolution and improved risk resolution.The City of Cape Town states that these enforcement measures are now permanent and supported by legislation in order to offer greater impact.

Ryan Greeff, CEO at Quay 1 International says that, "safety is one of the key purchasing decision factors for aspirant buyers in Cape Town, if not the primary one for some. Updated policing regulations in the city's neighbourhoods will certainly increase the area's attractiveness and property value for potential buyers."

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