This article analyses the relationship between the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and the public participation process in the Republic of South Africa's new democracy. Given wide and general nature of this topic, the article focuses on the role of public participation in the IDP processes. Firstly, the article attempts to define the term ''public participation'' within the context of the IDP in South Africa. Secondly, it briefly outlines the methods and approaches used to articulate the public participation process in the South African environment. Thirdly, the article explores South Africa's rationale for adopting the IDP; the duration of this plan; its uniqueness, strengths and weaknesses; its importance to the development process as well as its relevance to the public participation process in South Africa. Fourthly, the article examines the factors affecting public participation using selected models of