The Department of Human Settlements has extended the public comment period for the PIE Amendment Bill, which proposes tougher penalties for people who incite unlawful land occupations.

The draft law could introduce a fine of up to R2 million, imprisonment of up to two years, or both, for those found guilty of organising or encouraging illegal occupation of land or buildings.

PIE Amendment Bill Comment Period Extended

According to BusinessTech, the department extended the comment period by 30 days from 26 June 2026 after receiving requests from stakeholders and organisations. The original deadline was 16 June 2026.

The Department of Human Settlements previously published the draft Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Amendment Bill, 2026 for public comment. Its official notice listed submissions through email, hand delivery and post.

The department said the process aims to encourage wider participation in a bill that could reshape how South Africa responds to unlawful occupation and eviction disputes.

R2 Million Fine Proposed For Inciting Occupation

The PIE Amendment Bill proposes a new offence for people who incite or organise illegal occupations, even if no money changes hands. It also proposes penalties of up to R2 million, jail time of up to two years, or both.

SAnews reported in April that government published the bill to empower municipalities, state entities and private property owners to respond more decisively to illegal land and building occupations.

Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane said the amendments would strengthen the state’s ability to deal with “individuals and organised groups” behind invasions, according to SAnews.

The bill also proposes asset forfeiture where money or property was gained through the offence. In addition, it would expand the definition of a “person in charge” so municipalities can seek urgent interdicts even when they do not own the invaded land.

Why The PIE Act Is Being Reviewed

The current PIE Act dates back to 1998 and governs eviction from land and unlawful occupation. Government says inconsistent interpretation of the law has caused long court processes and rising costs.

The proposed amendments would give courts clearer powers when dealing with evictions, temporary accommodation and structures built on occupied land.

Courts could also decide how long alternative accommodation or land must remain available to an unlawful occupier. They may also order the retention, demolition or removal of structures on affected land.

Responses And Next Steps

The Department of Human Settlements has held public information sessions in several provinces, including the Western Cape, where it said the public had until 16 June 2026 to comment before the later extension was reported.

The department initially planned to return the revised bill to Cabinet in July 2026, with possible tabling before Parliament by late July or early August. However, the extended comment period may delay that timeline.