ITB — Leases, Land Access & Support
Everything you need to know about applying for land access or leases on Ingonyama Trust land, timelines, Traditional Council consent, fees, and support channels.
What is the Ingonyama Trust Board (ITB)?
The Ingonyama Trust Board (ITB) administers land that falls under the Ingonyama Trust in KwaZulu-Natal. This land is held in trust for the benefit, material welfare, and social well-being of members of traditional communities.
How do I apply for land use or a lease?
Accessing land is a structured process managed with your Traditional Council (TC). Land is not sold; ITB issues long-term leases for development purposes.
Step 1 — Engage the Traditional Council
- Identify the land for your project.
- Approach the relevant TC for your area.
- Pay the allocation/khonza fee set by the TC.
- Obtain Traditional Consent (ITB2) signed by the TC.
- Submit the ITB2 and supporting documents to ITB.
Step 2 — ITB Processing
- ITB registers your application.
- Land Management Officer conducts site visit, measurements & GPS capture.
- Submission to the Board’s Tenure Committee.
- On approval, pay lease fees and sign the lease.
Step 3 — Finalise & Develop
- Register the notarial lease at the Deeds Office (required for bank funding).
- After registration, commence development as per approvals.
Checklist — Required Supporting Documents
- Completed ITB1 (application) & ITB2 (Traditional Consent) forms
- Certified ID copies of applicant(s)/company directors
- Company registration documents (if applicable)
- Power of attorney for authorised representative
- Business plan and constitution (where relevant)
- Operating licences (where applicable)
- Any additional information requested by ITB
Typical timeframe: ~3–6 months, depending on completeness and consultations.
For more resources and guides, visit the ITB Resource Centre.
How long does the lease application process take?
Timelines vary by complexity and required consultations. When documents are in order, the process is typically completed within 3–6 months.
Do I need Traditional Council approval before applying?
Yes. Traditional Council consent (ITB2) is essential before ITB can process an application.
Can I purchase Ingonyama Trust land?
No. Trust land is not sold. ITB issues leases or Permissions to Occupy (PTOs) for qualifying purposes.
What types of projects does ITB support?
Agriculture, tourism and hospitality, commercial/retail developments, telecommunications infrastructure, and MSME hubs/markets/industrial parks.
Does ITB charge fees for applications?
Yes. Administrative and processing fees apply and vary by project type and size. Annual rentals and service charges may also apply as per lease terms.
How do I check the status of my application?
Contact the ITB Call Centre and monitor SMS/email notifications.
Who do I contact for billing or rental queries?
Call 033 846 9900 (Billing Support) or use the website Live Chat during operational hours.
What should I do if I suspect illegal occupation or use of ITB land?
Report immediately to ITB’s Compliance Unit or your Traditional Council. Provide details (location, individuals involved, activity). ITB will investigate with local authorities.
