Crackdown in Johannesburg: Battle against illegal billboards and electricity theft heat up

The City of Johannesburg, together with City Power, has intensified its fight against illegal outdoor advertising, targeting both static and digital billboards that unlawfully draw electricity from the municipal network. 

Officials warned that such illegal structures endanger communities, strain the City’s electrical infrastructure, and constitute electricity theft.

On Tuesday, the City and City Power carried out a major enforcement operation affecting more than six signs, including high-impact billboards along Winnie Mandela Drive and the N1 corridor.

“These connections place the City’s electrical infrastructure at risk, endanger surrounding communities, and constitute electricity theft,” the City said.

During the operation, City Power removed illegal electricity meters and associated infrastructure. One sign, completely absent from City records, had its power supply disconnected, while another illegally connected sign was successfully disconnected. Electrical connectivity on a third sign remains under investigation. 

In one case, although the electricity connection was legal, the advertising structure itself was deemed illegal and is now being addressed through regulatory enforcement.

“A large advertising structure on private property was also deemed non-compliant. While the City cannot remove it entirely at this stage, parts are being dismantled to enforce compliance and mitigate risk,” officials said.

The City emphasised that all advertisers operating in Johannesburg must comply with municipal requirements, including registering structures, obtaining approvals, opening a City Power account, applying for approved meters, and paying for electricity consumed. Failure to comply will result in enforcement action.

The City said that illegal outdoor advertising and unauthorised electricity use threaten public safety, damage municipal infrastructure, and deprive the City of revenue needed for essential services. It stressed that compliance is mandatory and that city-wide enforcement will be stepped up, with stricter action against repeat offenders.

“This operation sends a clear message: outdoor advertising in Johannesburg must be lawful, safe, and fully compliant or it will be removed,” the City said. 

Residents and businesses are encouraged to report illegal activities through official City channels.

The Star

masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za