Residents were shocked to learn that walking your dogs in Table Mountain National Park without the required dog-walking permit could set you back a hefty R2 500.
A hiker was recently charged R2 500 for walking his dog in Newlands Forest with his Activity Permit.
The hiker reportedly took to social media to share his anguish at receiving the hefty fine. Mother City residents were angered and upset along with him.
He had been walking his dog in the area for a long time and was shocked to hear that he needed a permit.
“We hike and walk with our dogs for protection, something we are not provided with. People have been complaining about break-ins in Newlands Forest and other Table Mountain National Park areas,” he said.
After hearing the story, many are worried about whether they could be fined themselves for walking their dogs in certain areas.
Public Relations Officer for SANParks, Babalwa Dlangamandla says, “To walk your dog within Table Mountain National Park you need a My Activity Permit. This will allow you to walk your dog in the areas designated for this purpose within the Table Mountain National Park Environmental Management Plan and dog walking code of conduct, for twelve months from date of purchase.”
With regards to obtaining a permit Dlangamandla says that the main member will pay R288 and each additional member will pay R106 and up to three additional members can be added to the main member’s application.
“Rates quoted are subject to the annual tariff increases on 1 November annually. No more than 2 dogs per permit holder may be walked at any given time. Additional dogs members can apply for a special permit.”
Dlangamandla confirms that SANParks Table Mountain National Park works on a standard Admission of guilt fine system which is consistent.
“For example in failing to comply with any internal rules, violates, refuses or fails to obey or comply with any prohibition, request of instruction imposed by the Protected Areas Regulations or by the management authority or authorised Officials = R2500.00 fine. Failing to hand over a permit or proof of entry on demand for endorsement indicating withdrawal of permission to enter a special nature reserve, national park or world heritage site, when requested to leave = R1500 fine” says Dlangamandla
These permits were introduced more than 10 years ago and a number of Public Participation sessions and Educational Drives were held by SANParks Officials at various community forums and cycling clubs over the past few years, educating the community members and users of the park on the importance of purchasing and carrying the My Activity Permit at all times, in accordance to the Environmental Management Programs (EMPs)
Where can people apply for the permit?
Tokai Plantation Office, Tokai Road, Tokai (Mondays to Fridays 08:00-15:45)
– Tel: +27 (0)21 712 7471 or E-mail: [email protected]
– Open Monday to Friday – Closed daily from 12:30 p.m. – 13:00 p.m.
Sales Outlets for the My Activity Permit
The Table Mountain National Park My Activity Permit is now available at the following Cape Town Tourism offices.
– Cape Town International Airport
– City Centre
– Kirstenbosch
– Simon’s Town
– Somerset West
– Long street
Remember to take your two ID photos, ID and, in the case of the My Green Card, your printed proof of residence.
Picture: Pexels