Apply for the county Single Business Permit
Every business operating from a physical premises in Kenya needs a Single Business Permit (SBP) from the county where it operates. Cost varies by county, business type, and premises size.
- Find your county's e-services portal (e.g. epayments.nairobi.go.ke for Nairobi).
- Create an account using your ID and phone.
- Apply for 'Single Business Permit' — pick the category that matches your business.
- Upload BN certificate, KRA PIN, lease agreement, and ID.
- Pay the assessed fee via M-Pesa or bank.
Typical Nairobi SBP costs (2025)
| Business type | Annual fee (KES) |
|---|---|
| Small retail shop (< 50m²) | 5,000 – 15,000 |
| Medium shop / salon / café | 15,000 – 30,000 |
| Consultancy / professional office | 20,000 – 50,000 |
| Light manufacturing / workshop | 25,000 – 80,000 |
County inspectors do walk into shops. Operating without an SBP triggers fines, padlocking, and back-payments — almost always more expensive than just paying upfront.
You're now legally trading
Sole prop registered, KRA aware, bank account open, county permit on the wall. The next 90 days are about bookkeeping discipline — file every TOT return, reconcile your bank weekly, and start a separate folder for receipts. Your future self (and any buyer or lender) will thank you.
The information in this guide is provided for general guidance only and is subject to change. Fees, timelines, and regulatory requirements in Kenya are updated regularly. Before acting, please confirm details with the relevant authority (KRA, eCitizen, BRS, county government, or other regulator) or speak with a qualified MyBiashara advisor. MyBiashara is not liable for decisions made solely on the basis of this content.
