Can You Fill a Jerry Can at a Petrol Station in South Africa?

Traveling to South Africa, you might naturally wonder if you can conveniently fill a Jerry can at a petrol station. The answer, surprisingly, is more nuanced than it might first appear. This guide aims to clarify the norms and regulations in place, helping you understand whether you can fulfill this need during your stay.

General Practice

You have the flexibility to fill a gasoline jug at a petrol station regardless of its name or specific characteristics. The key requirement is that the container must be appropriate for transporting and storing fuel products.

Specific Requirements for Containers

There are standard options available, primarily in metal and plastic forms. These containers often come in vibrant colors for ease of identification: if it's for diesel, it's likely yellow; for unleaded petrol, it's typically green. Historically, when lead or lead replacement petrol was used, the containers would be red. Interestingly, you can also get blue Jerry cans for water.

Legal Requirements for Containers

Although the law mandates that the can be made of metal, not plastic, there's some flexibility in practice. So long as it's not overtly noticeable and the petrol attendant agrees, you can even use a 2-liter cold drink bottle. It's worth noting that a Jerry can typically holds 20 liters of liquid. For legal storage purposes, the restrictions on container size are critical. You cannot store petrol in metal containers larger than 10 liters or in plastic containers larger than 5 liters. Hence, filling a full 20-liter Jerry can is against the law.

Practical Considerations at Petrol Stations

Petrol stations in South Africa prefer that you place the container on the ground while refilling. This extra step is necessary to ensure safety and regulations are followed. If you have a mounted can, you might need to dismount it before getting it filled.

Conclusion

The ability to fill a Jerry can at a petrol station in South Africa depends on several factors, including the type and size of the container, and compliance with local laws. While there's some room for flexibility, it's crucial to adhere to the guidelines to avoid any issues.