Starting and operating aquaculture in South Africa potentially requires a range of authorisations and permits. The most important of these are an environmental authorisation (EIA) for facilities designed to produce more than 20 tons per annum, an entitlement for the legal use of water, and an alien and invasive species permit for the use of exotic fish. Several exceptions, exemptions, additional activities, provincial permits, rights for marine activities and other matters are also important. As this is a complex process it would be best dealt with by an aquaculture authorisation expert.

This process is in review by DFFE and we will update the information as it becomes available.