Fuel licensing is a mandatory step to operating a legitimate fuel business in South Africa, as stipulated by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE). The DMRE promotes economic growth and development, social equity and environmental sustainability in the sector. You must apply to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy for the relevant license if you want to buy or sell petroleum products to members of the public. The license will be valid for as long as your business operates.
You can obtain a retail or wholesale fuel license. A wholesale license allows you to buy petroleum products in bulk (1500 litres or more, per transaction of petroleum products) from a licensed manufacturer, and to sell it to end users. Retailers can purchase petroleum products from a licensed manufacturer or wholesaler only. The license or a certified copy should be displayed on the business premises in a manner which anyone entering the premises may read it.
Appropriate Steps in Fuel Licensing
- Complete the appropriate Application form and other statutory documents.
- Send the application form to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy regional office.
- The Department will send you a letter stipulating that you must publish a notice of application in two national newspapers.
- You must provide proof of the publication of the notice of application to the Department.
- Once you have a license, you must submit information on your business annually using the appropriate annual information (submission form) and pay the renewal fees to DMRE.
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