County Business Permit Requirements in Kenya
County Business Permit Requirements in Kenya, Licencing Body & Contacts
Summary of Requirements
- Business registration certificate
- KRA PIN certificate
- National ID copies (3 copies)
- Passport photographs
- Physical address of business premises
- Fire safety certificate
- Completed application form (BR-1)
- Payment of permit fees
Key Contacts
- Your respective County Government Office
- Nairobi County: +254 0725-624489 / +254 0202224281
- Email: [email protected]
- Kenya Investment Authority: +254 730 104 210
- Website: www.invest.go.ke
What is a County Business Permit?
A county business permit is a mandatory legal authorization issued by county governments allowing businesses to operate within specific county jurisdictions. This permit consolidates various compliance requirements into a single licensing document. Every business, regardless of size, must obtain this permit from the county where it operates before commencing commercial activities.
County governments derive their authority to issue business permits from the County Government Act No. 17 of 2012. The permit system replaced the previous fragmented licensing structure where entrepreneurs obtained multiple permits from different offices. Now, a single application covers trading authorization, fire clearance, health certification, and other operational requirements.
The type of permit issued depends on geographical location, number of employees, business type, and business activities. Small retail shops pay different rates than large manufacturing enterprises. Urban areas typically charge higher permit fees compared to rural locations. Each county publishes annual fee structures detailing costs for various business categories.
Before applying, ensure your business is registered with the Registrar of Companies. Obtain your KRA PIN certificate as this demonstrates tax compliance. Prepare three passport photographs and certified copies of national identification for all directors. Secure proof of business premises through lease agreements or title deeds that confirm your physical location.
The application process begins at the county ward office where applicants receive the BR-1 application form. After completing the form with all required details, ward officers conduct physical inspections within one day. The inspection determines permit fees based on business size, type, and location. The completed form is stamped and forwarded to the main county licensing office.
At the main office, forms undergo approval and data entry into the county database. An invoice is generated showing exact amounts payable. Payment can be made at county cash offices, through online portals, or via mobile money platforms. Once payment is confirmed, the permit is issued and must be displayed prominently at business premises.
Several counties including Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, and Uasin Gishu offer online application portals. The digital process eliminates physical visits to government offices and reduces processing time significantly. Business owners create accounts on county e-services portals, navigate to the business permit section, and complete applications online. Payments are processed through e-wallet systems, and permits can be downloaded immediately.
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