How to Report a Broken Streetlight in South Africa
Broken streetlights create dangerous conditions — they increase crime risk, make roads hazardous for drivers and pedestrians, and create fear in communities. Reporting a broken streetlight is quick and free. This guide explains how to report to the correct authority in your city, what information to provide, and how to follow up if it is not repaired.
Who Is Responsible for Streetlights?
Streetlight maintenance responsibility depends on your area and the type of light.
| Area Type | Responsible Authority |
|---|---|
| Most urban streets in metros | Your metropolitan municipality (COJ, CoCT, eThekwini, etc.) |
| Some areas supplied by City Power (Joburg) | City Power, not just COJ roads department |
| National road street lighting (N-roads) | SANRAL |
| Areas outside metro boundaries | Eskom or local municipality |
| Private developments (estates, malls) | Body corporate or property owner |
How to Report in Johannesburg
- Call Joburg Connect on 011 375 5555 and report under 'Electrical faults'.
- Log a fault via the Joburg App (available on Android and iOS).
- For City Power-maintained lights: call 011 490 7484 or log at citypower.co.za.
- Provide the street name, nearest house number or landmark, and describe the fault (lamp out, cable hanging, pole leaning, etc.).
- Get a reference number for follow-up.
How to Report in Cape Town, Durban, and Other Cities
- City of Cape Town: 0860 103 089 or via the CoCT App — log under 'Electrical faults'.
- eThekwini (Durban): 080 131 3111 or durban.gov.za — ask for the electricity or roads department.
- Tshwane: 012 358 9999 or tshwane.gov.za.
- Ekurhuleni: 011 999 0000 or ekurhuleni.gov.za.
- For areas outside metros: call your local municipality switchboard and ask for the technical or electrical department.
Information to Have Ready When Reporting
- Exact street address or GPS coordinates of the broken light.
- Nearest house number or landmark for reference.
- Type of fault: bulb out, light on during the day (fault with sensor), pole damaged, cable vandalised.
- When the fault started (how many nights it has been broken).
- Your contact number — in case the field team needs to locate the site.
Safety Tips When Streetlights Are Broken
- Avoid walking alone in the dark on streets without lighting — use well-lit routes or arrange transport.
- Install a solar-powered garden light or porch light to improve your property's safety while waiting for repair.
- Encourage neighbours to also report the same fault — multiple reports increase priority.
- Community policing forums (CPFs) often assist in following up on infrastructure faults with municipalities.
- Consider a neighbourhood watch walk with torches as a temporary measure.