Quick Answer How to Get a Spaza Shop Permit (Trading Licence) in South Africa A spaza shop needs a business/trading licence from your local municipality under the Businesses Act, plus a health certificate if you sell food. Apply at the municipal licensing office with your ID, lease or landlord consent, and premises details. Fees are modest and set per municipality. What this means in plain language Spaza shops are real businesses in the eyes of the law: the Businesses Act 71 of 1991 requires a licence for selling food and certain goods, and municipalities add their own bylaws on zoning, hours and signage. Registration drives have tightened since the 2024…