Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act: Draft Amendments to Development Planning Regulations

Posted 16 March 2026 Written by Acts Online
Category Local & Provincial Government

Brought to you by SA Legal Academy: The Department of Co-operative Governance & Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has invited public comment on draft amendments to the regulations published under the Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act, No. 13 of 2005. The proposed changes aim to formalise the District Development Model (DDM) and clarify the roles of intergovernmental stakeholders.

In terms of the Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act, No. 13 of 2005, the draft amendments seek to refine the regulatory framework originally published in May 2024. According to a media statement issued by Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa on 17 March 2026, these amendments are intended to provide an improved framework for the institutionalisation and implementation of the DDM as an integral part of the national development strategy.

The proposed amendments focus on “inter-governmental long-term catalytic planning in district and metropolitan spaces”. Key provisions include:

  • The establishment of a “district or metropolitan technical district development model hub” to facilitate intergovernmental planning processes.
  • The redefinition of “catalytic” projects to encompass those whose scale and costs result in mass employment and substantial economic and social investment in the local area.
  • Clarification of the specific roles and responsibilities of intergovernmental stakeholders within the DDM framework.

Interested parties have until 12 April 2026 to submit written input on the draft regulations.

Click here to view the Minister’s media statement regarding the District Development Model.

What this means for you, your business, or your clients

  • For yourself: No direct individual compliance obligations; however, professionals in the public law and planning spheres should note the shifting definitions of “catalytic” planning for future advisory work.
  • For your business: Consulting, engineering, and urban planning firms must prepare to engage with the new “technical district development model hubs” which are intended to centralise the coordination of large-scale infrastructure projects.
  • For your clients: Clients in the property development and infrastructure sectors should assess whether their current project pipelines meet the new “catalytic” criteria to qualify for prioritised intergovernmental support and coordination under the DDM.

Originally published at https://legalacademy.co.za/news/read/development-planning-input-sought-on-regulatory-amendment-proposals

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