04/05/2026
High Court Ruling on City Fixed Tariffs: A Significant Moment for Ratepayers
The CBCRA welcomes the Western Cape High Court judgment handed down on 30 April 2026, declaring the City of Cape Town’s fixed charges for city-wide cleaning, water and sanitation in the 2025/26 budget unlawful and invalid.
These charges were based on property valuations, rather than actual service consumption, and have now been set aside with effect from 30 June 2026.
The main applications were brought by SAPOA and AfriForum, with the Cape Town Collective Ratepayers’ Association (CTCRA) admitted as amicus curiae in the SAPOA matter. As a founding member of the CTCRA, the CBCRA supports its important contribution in helping to ensure that ratepayer concerns are properly heard when the City fails to listen.
Thousands of Capetonians opposed these tariffs, yet their concerns were ignored.
This judgment affirms an important principle: municipal charges must be lawful, transparent and properly structured.
It is also a reminder of why organised civic representation matters. Public authorities must remain accountable to the communities they serve.
The City has indicated that it is considering the judgment and may decide whether to appeal. The CBCRA will continue to monitor developments and keep Camps Bay and Clifton residents informed.
We thank the executive of the CTCRA for their tireless efforts in this regard.
Serve. Conserve. Preserve.