The African Truck Stop Association (ATSA) was formed by truck stop owners and The African Truck Stop Association (ATSA) was formed by truck stop owners and operators to serve as the collective voice of our industry in engagements with government, regulators, and stakeholders in the fuel and transport sectors.
As a registered Non-Profit Company, ATSA unites legitimate truck stop owners and operators to:
- Set standards for compliance, safety, and professionalism.
- Advocate for the rights and interests of legally constituted, law-abiding truck stops.
- Engage with government, law enforcement, fuel suppliers, transport companies, and other stakeholders to create a fair, sustainable operating environment.
- Promote Transparency in the evolving fuel value chain.
- Address illegal and unfair practices, fuel adulteration, and corruption.
- Support members with resources, advice, and industry updates.
- Influence policy through proactive self-regulation.
In addition, ATSA facilitates collaboration between members to share best practices, coordinate on industry challenges, and present a united position on matters affecting the sector. Through a network of engaged members, we aim to raise operational standards, protect investments, and enhance the reputation of truck stops across the region.
ATSA believes that all truck stops should adhere to a country’s laws and regulations. ATSA’s set of membership requirements are drawn from existing legislation such as the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA), the Municipal Planning By-Laws of each local authority, the National Road Traffic Act, and relevant SANRAL regulations.
In South Africa, any significant development (such as a truck stop) must have the appropriate property zoning, obtain environmental authorisation, and secure approvals from the Department of Roads and SANRAL as applicable. From a municipal perspective, a Record of Decision (RoD) is standard for major developments and confirms compliance with environmental, safety, and planning standards.
A legitimate, legally operating truck stop therefore meets the following basic criteria:
- Valid Site Licence and Retail Licence (if dispensing fuel), in accordance with the Petroleum Products Act.
- Appropriate Zoning (Industrial / Light Industrial / Truck Stop, etc.) as set out in local planning schemes.
- SANRAL and Department of Roads approvals where required.
- Environmental Approval in terms of the National Environmental Management Act.
- Compliance with fire, electrical, safety, and environmental standards as required by the Occupational Health and Safety Act and municipal by-laws.
- Record of Decision (RoD) from the relevant municipality, supported by:
- Impact Study
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
- Zoning approval
- Site completion certificates