Any premises providing entertainment to members of the public — nightclubs, discotheques, live music venues, comedy clubs, and karaoke bars — must hold an Entertainment Licence in addition to any applicable alcohol and business permits. The licence is issued following inspection of the premises for safety, noise control, and sanitation compliance.
Issuing Authority: County Government / County Entertainment and Licensing Board
| Premises Type | Annual Licence Fee (KES) |
|---|---|
| Small live music venue | 10,000 – 25,000 |
| Karaoke bar | 10,000 – 20,000 |
| Mid-size nightclub | 30,000 – 80,000 |
| Large nightclub (capacity 500+) | 80,000 – 200,000 |
| Comedy / theatre venue | 15,000 – 40,000 |
| Sports bar with entertainment | 20,000 – 50,000 |
| DJ / live band permit (recurring) | 5,000 – 15,000 per year |
| Noise nuisance compliance bond | 10,000 – 30,000 |
Nightclubs and entertainment venues are additionally required to comply with the Noise Pollution Control Regulations, 2009, issued under NEMA. Failure to soundproof premises or exceeding permitted decibel levels can result in licence revocation.
12. Entertainment / Events Permit
An Events Permit is a temporary, event-specific authorisation required for public gatherings, concerts, festivals, corporate events, sports events, and cultural functions. It is separate from the standing Entertainment Licence and must be obtained for each individual event. The permit ensures coordination between the organiser, county government, police, and emergency services.
Issuing Authority: County Government Events and Licensing Office / Kenya Police (for public order component)
| Event Category | Permit Fee (KES) |
|---|---|
| Small private event (under 100 guests) | 2,000 – 5,000 |
| Medium event (100 – 500 guests) | 5,000 – 15,000 |
| Large event (500 – 2,000 guests) | 15,000 – 40,000 |
| Mass gathering / concert (2,000+ guests) | 40,000 – 150,000 |
| Outdoor festival (multi-day) | 50,000 – 200,000 |
| Corporate / trade fair | 20,000 – 80,000 |
| Sporting event (stadium-level) | 30,000 – 100,000 |
| Alcohol permit (event-specific) | 5,000 – 20,000 |
Applications should be submitted at least 21 days before the event date. Large events may require a security plan, public liability insurance, and coordination with the National Police Service, Kenya Red Cross, and the relevant county health department.