Guide to Getting Your Kajiado County License

Kickstart Your Business in Kitengela: A Simple Guide to Getting Your Kajiado County License

Starting a business in Kitengela or anywhere in Kajiado County is an exciting step! But before you open your doors, you’ll need to get the proper licensing sorted. The good news? Kajiado County uses a Single Business Permit (also called a Unified Business Permit in some contexts), which bundles several required approvals into one convenient document. This makes things simpler for new entrepreneurs.This guide breaks down everything you need to know in easy steps, based on the latest county procedures as of late 2025.Why Do You Need a Business Permit?

• It’s required by law under the Kajiado County Trade License Act.
• Operating without one can lead to fines, business closure, or legal issues.
• It covers essentials like trading, fire safety clearance, health standards (for food businesses), and signage.
• Having it builds trust with customers and helps you access opportunities like tenders or loans.

Who Needs It? Any person or company running a business in Kajiado County, including shops, salons, restaurants, offices, or services in areas like Kitengela, Isinya, or Kajiado Town.

How to Apply:

Step-by-Step Kajiado County offers both online and manual options. Online is faster and recommended!Option 1: Apply Online (Recommended)

1. Visit the Portal: Go to the Kajiado County e-services portal at eservices.kajiado.go.ke or through the national eCitizen platform (ecitizen.go.ke) – many counties, including Kajiado, route applications here.
2. Register/Create an Account: Sign up if you’re new. Select “Single Business Permit” during registration.
3. Fill the Application Form: Provide details about your business:
   • Business name and type (e.g., retail shop, cafe)
   • Location (e.g., Kitengela town, specific plot)
   • Number of employees
   • Size of premises
4. Upload Required Documents (scans or photos):
   • Copy of your ID or passport
   • Business registration certificate (from BRS if it’s a company)
   • PIN certificate from KRA
   • Lease agreement or proof of premises ownership
   • For food/health-related businesses: Additional health inspection may be needed
5. Submit and Wait for Inspection: After submission, a county licensing officer will inspect your premises (usually within a few days) to verify details and assess fees.
6. Pay the Fees: You’ll get an invoice based on your business category. Pay via M-Pesa, bank, or online.
7. Download Your Permit: Once approved, download and print it. Display it prominently at your business!

Option 2: Apply In Person (Manual)

• Visit the County Trade/Licensing Office in Kajiado Town or sub-county offices (e.g., in Kitengela Red Heron).
• Get the BR-1 application form.
• Submit with the same documents as above.
• Inspection and payment follow the same process.

Processing time is usually 7–14 days, depending on inspections.

How Much Does It Cost? Fees vary based on:

• Business type (e.g., small shop vs. large hotel)
• Location (higher in busy areas like Kitengela)
• Size and number of employees

Exact amounts are set in the annual Kajiado County Finance Act. As a rough guide:

• Small businesses (e.g., kiosks or small shops): KSh 5,000–15,000
• Medium-sized (e.g., restaurants, salons): KSh 15,000–50,000+
• Larger operations: Higher

Check the latest schedule on the county website (kajiado.go.ke) or during application – the system calculates it automatically online.Renewal Tips

• Permits are valid for one year (usually January to December).
• Renew early (from November/December) to avoid penalties.
• Follow the same online process, plus attach your previous permit.

Extra Permits You Might NeedThe Single Business Permit covers most basics, but some businesses require add-ons:

• Food businesses: Public health certificate
• Bars/restaurants with alcohol: Separate alcoholic drinks license
• Signage: Advertising permit
• Environmentally impactful businesses: NEMA license

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Starting operations before approval – wait for the permit!
• Incomplete documents – double-check the list.
• Ignoring inspections – be ready and cooperative.

For the most up-to-date info, visit www.kajiado.go.ke or call the county trade department.Ready to launch your Kitengela dream? Getting licensed is your first smart move. If you’re listed on www.kitengelas.com, share your success story – we’d love to feature local entrepreneurs

!Note: Always verify details with official county sources, as fees and processes can update annually.

Kitengela revenue office is located at Red Heron Center (old naivas) along Namanga Road next to Rubis and opposite kingdom bank.