Without going into all the legal aspects, laws and regulations I will give you the short version and methods to do it legally. 

The law in South Africa allows you to own and distill alcohol beverages for own use at home provided you register your still and yourself for the manufacture of excisable Goods. This is covered under (and mean under cover/hidden) in the laws and regulations, however Article 116 covers the registration and requirements.

Want to read it, here’s a link: LAPD-LSec-CE-RA-2019-002-Rule-amendments-Stills-and-manufacture-for-own-use.pdf (sars.gov.za)

OK, What now?

4 easy steps to doing it…

1. Obtain a legal and numbered still. 
2. Complete the DA185 form for registration and mark the two areas Download DA185 PFD

• (DA185.4A15 – Manufacturer of excisable goods solely for own use by the manufacturer) and 
• (DA185.4B12 – To own, possess or keep stills Download DA185.4A15 & DA185.4B12 PDF

1. Supply all the necessary document
2. Submit to SARS together with the required payment

Typical documents to accompany the registration: (original or certified copies)

• A bank statement or proof of bank account holder
• Municipal account to confirm the address details
• Detailed site plan or a rough sketch of where the still will be used
• SARS registration details
• Cell phone or fixed telephone line operator’s account to confirm contact details.
• Copy of Identity/passport document
• Pictures of the still being registered 

Need online assistance? Here’s a link you can follow:

Export Help Assistance completing forms for exporter registration

Link to the regional Customs and Excise offices addresses:

Excise Offices – South African Revenue Service (sars.gov.za)