Johannesburg – The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has warned residents, businesses and visitors that it will intensify enforcement against public urination, with offenders facing spot fines, arrest and possible criminal prosecution.
In a public notice issued on Monday, the JMPD reminded the public that urinating in public is prohibited under several City of Johannesburg municipal by-laws, including the Public Road and Miscellaneous By-laws, Public Open Spaces By-laws, Public Health By-laws and Waste Management By-laws.
The department said public urination remains a serious offence that affects public health and the city’s infrastructure.
“Our municipality is committed to maintaining a clean, hygienic, and dignified environment for all. Public urination constitutes an offence against public decency, degrades infrastructure, poses health risks, and compromises the cleanliness of our city,” the statement said.
The JMPD said it is stepping up enforcement across the city.
“To ensure strict compliance, the JMPD is actively enforcing these regulations,” the department said.
JMPD PUBLIC NOTICE: ENFORCEMENT OF ANTI-URINATION BYLAWS
DATE: 03 AUGUST 2026
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) hereby reminds all residents, business owners, and visitors to the Inner City and surrounding municipal areas that public urination is strictly… pic.twitter.com/RRE6rlLXgW
— Jo’burg Metro Police Department – JMPD (@JoburgMPD) August 3, 2026
Authorities stressed that the offence applies to all public spaces.
“The act of urinating in any public space, including public roads, sidewalks, alleys, squares, and open parks, is illegal under municipal law. Zero tolerance will be applied to offenders,” the statement said.
The department also revealed that key areas across Johannesburg are under continuous surveillance to detect offenders.
“Key public thoroughfares and identified hot spots across the city are under 24-hour video surveillance via our CCTV network. The JMPD utilises this monitoring system to detect offences and gather evidence against violators,” it said.
According to the department, offenders caught by patrol officers or identified through CCTV footage will face immediate penalties.
“Violators identified by patrolling JMPD officers or captured on CCTV surveillance will be issued immediate spot fines and/or face arrest and criminal prosecution under the relevant municipal by-laws,” the statement said.
The JMPD urged residents and visitors to make use of designated public toilet facilities and help keep Johannesburg clean.
“The JMPD urges the public to utilise designated public restroom facilities located throughout the city and to assist us in keeping Johannesburg clean, safe, and respectful,” the department said.
The notice forms part of the city’s ongoing efforts to improve public hygiene, protect municipal infrastructure and enforce compliance with local by-laws.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, X and Instagram
Picture: Pexels
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
