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How to Get Building Permits for Your Plot in Kenya (building permit Kenya, building approvals)

Building on your plot is exciting but before you lay a foundation you must secure proper building approvals. In Kenya, building permits are issued by county governments and often require approvals from national bodies (NEMA, NCA) depending on project size. Follow this practical, SEO-friendly checklist to get your permit fast and legally.

1. Know which permits you need

Most projects require at least:

• Architectural plan approval (county)
• Structural plan approval (county)
• Environmental approval / EIA (NEMA) if the project exceeds thresholds or is environmentally sensitive
• Project registration / NCA compliance for contractors and larger works.
  These four approvals are commonly required before construction.

2. Step-by-step process (what to do first)

1. Engage registered professionals. Hire a licensed architect and structural engineer to prepare drawings and specifications. If you’ll hire a contractor, confirm they are registered with the National Construction Authority (NCA).
2. Obtain a survey / site plan. A registered surveyor must prepare a site/survey plan (showing boundaries and coordinates) .This is usually required with your application.
3. Prepare technical documents. Typical submissions include: architectural drawings, structural drawings, site/survey plan, land title or lease, rates clearance, recent land search, consultant practicing licenses and a project brief. County checklists differ. Confirm with your county planning office or portal (e.g., Nairobi’s online planning system).
4. Screen for EIA/NEMA. If your project is on the EIA schedule (large residential estates, commercial buildings, developments in sensitive zones), commission an EIA by a registered lead expert and submit to NEMA for clearance. NEMA issues conditions that must be followed on site.
5. Submit to the county physical planning office. Lodge the plans and pay application fees (many counties now have e-systems). The county checks zoning, structural safety and compliance with local by-laws. Approved plans will be stamped and a building permit issued.

3. Typical documents checklist

• Title deed / lease / proof of ownership
• Land rates clearance certificate
• Recent land search (usually <3 months)
• Site/survey plan from a registered surveyor
• Architectural & structural drawings with professionals’ stamps and signatures
• Contractor NCA registration (for the contractor)
• NEMA EIA license (if applicable)
• Application form and proof of fee payment.

4. Fees and timelines (what to expect)

Fees and processing times vary by county and project complexity. Simple residential house plan approvals can take weeks to a few months; larger developments and NEMA assessments can add several weeks. Counties are improving online processing, but always budget time for revisions after technical review. For complex or high-value projects expect longer timelines and additional specialist reports (geotechnical, traffic, sewage).

5. Practical tips & common pitfalls

• Do the zoning check first. Buying a plot without confirming its land-use can derail approvals later.
• Use registered professionals. Submissions from unlicensed consultants are often rejected.
• Keep copies of all stamped documents. You’ll need them for inspections, utilities and eventual title updates.
• Don’t start major works before approvals ; counties can issue stop-work orders or penalties.