Does the current intergovernmental relations system in South Africa add value to integrated developmental planning in the local sphere of government? This question directs the discourse of this article. It is asked in the context of a myriad of arguments and research findings in the contemporary body of knowledge on local government, indicating that most municipalities in South Africa are unable to develop credible IDPs. The intergovernmental relations variable in this article is explored to essentially establish any possible correlation with the [poor] quality of IDPs in most municipalities. Based on the analysis of official data, theoretical insights and empirical data obtained from the municipal officials, councillors and ward committee members, the article finds that the current intergovernmental relations system in South Africa does not add value to the integrated developmental planning in the local sphere of government in South