Children in Film: Legal Requirements in South Africa
Children can and do work in film, television, advertising, and media productions in South Africa. However, this work is regulated by law to protect the safety, wellbeing, and education of minors. This page provides general information for parents and guardians about the legal requirements that apply when children participate in film and television productions, including permits, working hours, and parental presence on set.
Sectoral Determination 10 – Overview
Sectoral Determination 10 is part of South Africa’s labour legislation and sets out the rules governing the employment of children in the film, television, advertising, and media industries.
These regulations exist to ensure that children are protected from exploitation, that their education is not disrupted, and that their health and wellbeing are prioritised while participating in productions.
All productions employing minors are required to comply with these regulations, regardless of the size or duration of the production.
Work Permits for Children
In South Africa, children under the age of 15 are required to have a valid work permit before participating in film, television, advertising, or media productions.
These permits are issued by the Department of Employment and Labour and are intended to ensure that the child’s welfare, education, and working conditions are protected.
The responsibility for obtaining the correct permit lies with the production company. Parents or legal guardians are usually required to provide supporting documentation as part of the application process.
A work permit is not optional. Without a valid permit in place, a child may not legally work on a production, regardless of the length or nature of the role.
Parental Presence on Set
A parent or legal guardian should not be prevented from being present on set while their child is working.
If a parent or legal guardian is uncomfortable with any aspect of the production environment, they are entitled to withdraw their consent and refuse for their child to participate, even if a booking has already been confirmed.
Where access to set is restricted or conditions change, parents may request clarification and the reasons for this in writing before allowing their child to proceed.
Working Hours for Children
The number of hours a child may work on a film or television production is strictly regulated by law and varies according to the child’s age, the type of production, and whether filming takes place during school terms or holidays.
These limits are set out in Sectoral Determination 10, issued by the Department of Employment and Labour. Parents and guardians are encouraged to review the official document for the most accurate and up-to-date information on permitted working hours, rest periods, and supervision requirements.
Children under 5 years
- Very limited time on set is permitted
- Frequent breaks are required
- Feeding, rest, and comfort take priority
- A parent or legal guardian must be present at all times
Children aged 5 to 9 years
- Working time is strictly limited
- Regular rest and meal breaks are required
- Fatigue and schooling must be considered
- A parent or legal guardian must be present at all times
Children aged 10 to 14 years
- Working hours are regulated and may not interfere with schooling
- Adequate rest periods and supervision are required
- A parent or legal guardian must be present throughout the working day
Children aged 15 to 17 years
- A work permit is not required
- Working hours and conditions are still regulated by labour law
- School attendance and rest periods must be respected
- Parental or guardian consent remains essential
Children aged 15 to 17 do not require a work permit. However, productions must still comply with labour laws governing working hours, rest periods, and the protection of minors. Parental consent remains a requirement.
If Parents Are Told They Cannot Be on Set
A parent or legal guardian has the right to be present on set while their child is working. This is an important safeguard to ensure the child’s safety, wellbeing, and compliance with labour regulations.
If a production informs a parent or guardian that they are not allowed on set, this should be treated seriously and clarified before the child participates.
What Parents Can Do
- Ask for clarification: Politely ask the production to explain why parental access is being restricted.
- Request it in writing: Ask for written confirmation of the policy and which laws or guidelines the production is relying on.
- Pause participation: If you are not satisfied with the explanation, you are entitled to withhold consent and refuse for your child to continue.
- Prioritise safety: If the environment feels unsafe or unclear, removing your child from the production is always an option.
Important Note:
Parental consent is ongoing and may be withdrawn at any stage. A child should never be placed in a situation where a parent or legal guardian feels uncomfortable or excluded.
Know Your Rights and Ask Questions
Parents and guardians play an essential role in protecting children working in the film and television industry. Being informed about legal requirements, permits, and working conditions helps ensure that children are treated fairly and safely on set.
If you are ever unsure about any aspect of a production, you are entitled to ask questions, request clarity, and take the time you need before giving consent. A professional production should be willing to explain processes and comply with legal requirements.
When it comes to child performers, safety, wellbeing, and education must always come first.