The Architects Act 1970, Act 35 of 1970 established the South African Council for Architects on 1 March 1971.

This legislation, with amendments, remained in force for almost 30 years.

New legislation, the Architectural Profession Act 2000, Act 44 of 2000, was published on 1 December 2000 and came into operation on 26 January 2001.

A Council, renamed The South African Council for the Architectural Profession was established with effect from 12 September 2001.

A major change in the new legislation provided for the registration of professional architects, senior architectural technologists, architectural technologists and architectural draughtsperson whereas the previous legislation had dealt only with architects.

The new Council will have the same main functions as the old in its control of standards of education at technikons and universities for the purposes of professional registration by means of visiting boards, the administration of a Code of Conduct in the public interest and protection of the public interest by identifying the type of architectural work which each category of registered person is capable and competent to perform.

The Council will be obliged to consult with the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and Education Training Quality Assurance bodies in connection with educational standards and with the Council for the Built Environment on matters such as the Code of Conduct and Identification of Work.

Vision
 Highly competent architectural professionals compliant with international best practice and serving the special needs of developing economies.

Mission
Operationally ensuring excellence in performance and service delivery and,
Fostering collaborative relationships with role players

in order to:
- be responsive to needs of the public;
- maintain a quality and sustainable skills base in the profession;
- ensure good governance which results in a positive impact on Built Environment practice;
- grow the information and knowledge hub;
- promote transformation and diversity within the Built Environment;

SACAP Website: www.sacapsa.com