The City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) is mandated to protect life, property, and the environment. To support this responsibility, the City has adopted a set of by-laws that govern how fire safety, emergency preparedness, hazardous materials, and related activities must be managed.
This guide provides an easy-to-understand overview of the key requirements contained in the EMS By-Laws and explains what residents, businesses, developers, and event organisers must do to comply.
Purpose of the EMS By-Laws
The EMS By-Laws are designed to:
- Prevent fires and emergencies before they occur
- Regulate fire safety standards in buildings, public spaces, and industrial facilities
- Control the handling and transport of hazardous materials
- Ensure rapid access for emergency responders
- Promote public safety, preparedness, and compliance
By following these by-laws, the City creates safer communities and reduces the risk of injury, property damage, and environmental harm.
Building a Safer City Together
The EMS By-Laws exist to protect lives and ensure that Johannesburg remains a safe, resilient, and prepared city. Compliance is everyone's responsibility - residents, businesses, developers, and event organisers all play a vital role.
Click to access the full EMS By-Law document (PDF Document attached)
