JMPD to ticket, arrest and prosecute people caught urinating in public

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has warned that people caught urinating in public will face spot fines, arrest and prosecution as the city steps up enforcement to protect hygiene and public dignity.

Firm warning from JMPD

JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla described public urination as a public nuisance that compromises hygiene and degrades the environment. He said the behaviour erodes public pride, damages infrastructure and poses environmental health risks to pedestrians and motorists.

“Public urination is not only indecent, it is a health hazard that degrades our city’s infrastructure and compromises the dignity of our communities. We will enforce the law without fear or favour.”

By‑laws cited

Fihla said public urination is prohibited under multiple City of Johannesburg municipal by‑laws, including:

• Public Road and Miscellaneous By‑laws prohibit urinating, excreting or behaving indecently on or in view of any public road or public right‑of‑way.
• Public Open Spaces By‑laws prohibit public indecency, fouling, and causing a nuisance in municipal parks, squares and public open spaces.
• Public Health By‑laws classify public urination as a public health hazard and illegal liquid discharge that creates an unsanitary nuisance.
• Waste Management By‑laws prohibit the contamination and fouling of public infrastructure and shared environments.

Surveillance and enforcement

Fihla confirmed that hotspots are under 24‑hour CCTV surveillance. He warned that those caught will face immediate consequences and urged residents and visitors to use designated restroom facilities.

The JMPD message called on the public to “help us keep Johannesburg clean, safe and respectful for all.”

What the crackdown means

The department’s statement framed the measures as part of wider efforts to maintain public hygiene and protect municipal assets. Enforcement options named by the JMPD include spot fines, arrests and prosecution under the cited by‑laws.