Cape Town – Petrol stations and other petroleum businesses across South Africa have been given 60 days to bring their licensing records and operations into compliance with new government regulations or risk having their operating licences cancelled.
The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR), under Minister Gwede Mantashe, has introduced new Compliance Regulations under the Petroleum Products Act of 1977, requiring existing licence holders to verify their business information, settle outstanding annual fees and provide proof that their operations remain active.
According to motoring publication TopAuto, the requirements must be met within 60 days, placing the deadline in late December 2026.
The regulations apply to active petroleum licence holders, as well as applicants whose licences have been granted subject to outstanding conditions.
Businesses must submit updated ownership details, corporate structures and operational contact information, alongside supporting documents for any changes to their company status.
Financial security
They must also provide a formal declaration confirming that their licensed activities remain operational, proof of payment for outstanding annual licence fees and financial security for environmental rehabilitation.
The documentation must be submitted to the relevant DMPR regional offices or designated departmental contacts.
Failure to comply could have serious consequences. Mantashe has warned that non-compliance will trigger enforcement action, including the cancellation of operating licences. Contravening the regulations also constitutes a criminal offence under section 12 of the Petroleum Products Act.
The development was also highlighted by BusinessTech, which included the compliance deadline among its major developments in South Africa.
The requirements are part of a broader effort to tighten oversight of petroleum businesses and identify licence holders who are no longer operating or have failed to meet their obligations.
The regulatory drive comes amid wider debate over government oversight of roadside businesses.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
