National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57 of 2003)Chapter 3 : Declaration of Protected AreasPart 2 : National Parks22. Designation of national park as wilderness area |
| (1) | The Minister may by notice in the Gazette designate any national park, or part thereof, as a wilderness area. |
| (2) | A designation under subsection (1) may only be issued— |
| (a) | to protect and maintain the natural character of the environment, biodiversity, associated natural and cultural resources and the provision of environmental goods and services; |
| (b) | to provide outstanding opportunities for solitude; |
| (c) | to control access which, if allowed, may only be by non-mechanised means. |
| (3) | Before designating a national park as a wilderness area, the Minister must consult the management authority of the park. |
[Section 22 inserted by section 6 of Act No. 31 of 2004]