The article is based on the study the authors conducted and completed. A survey was conducted to determine the role of planning in creating sustainable environments through community participation in Naledi Local Municipality. Community participation is a critical issue in South Africa. In general, it is seen as an open, accountable process where individuals and groups within selected communities can exchange views and influence decision making. It is seen as a cornerstone of democracy and is mostly used by government, politicians, civil society organisations, analysts and advocates of democracy. After the 1994 elections, the Government of National Unity was formed and was faced with challenges of redressing past injustices. Naledi Local Municipality in the Free State, South Africa, faced challenges with regard to planning, implementation, monitoring and review, including community participation. Primary and secondary data were used