How to Get Business Permits in Kakamega

How to Get Business Permits in Kakamega

If you’re planning to start a business in Kakamega, you must obtain a valid Single Business Permit (SBP) from the Kakamega County Government. This license legalizes your operations and ensures compliance with county laws. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

1. Register Your Business Name

Before applying for a permit:

• Register your business name on eCitizen
• Download and print your Business Name Registration Certificate
  This document is required when applying for the county permit.

2. Visit the Kakamega County Revenue Office

Go to the Kakamega County Government’s Trade or Revenue Department, located at the County Headquarters in Kakamega Town, or visit your nearest sub-county office.

3. Fill Out the Business Permit Application Form

Provide key information such as:

• Business name and nature of operations
• Physical location and building number
• Owner’s name, ID, and KRA PIN
• Type of structure (permanent, semi-permanent, stall, etc.)
  County officers may inspect your premises before final approval.

4. Get an Assessment and Invoice

The county revenue officer will assess your business based on:

• Type of business (e.g., shop, salon, cyber café, wholesale)
• Size of your premises (in square feet)
• Location (urban, market center, rural)
  You’ll then receive a payment invoice.

5. Pay the Business Permit Fee

Payments can be made through:

• County Paybill (KCB, Co-operative, Equity)
• Bank deposit to the Kakamega County Revenue Account
• M-PESA Paybill, as directed on your invoice

Common business permit charges range between KES 5,000 – 15,000 per year, depending on size and location. The Paybill number for Kakamega County is 003737. You can use this Paybill to make payments via M-PESA. The county has partnered with Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), Sybil Kenya, Oracle Kenya, and Safaricom to digitize revenue collection. Additionally, KCB has its own Paybill numbers for various services, including 522522 for deposits and 522533 for various transactions. Co-operative Bank and Equity Bank also have their own M-PESA Paybill numbers for various services. 

6. Receive Your Single Business Permit

After payment, you will be issued a Single Business Permit Certificate, valid for 12 months.

• Display it prominently at your business premises
• Keep copies of the receipt and permit for audits or inspections

7. Annual Renewal of Your Permit

• Permits must be renewed every year before expiry
• Renewal notices are issued early in the year
• Late renewal may attract penalties

Visit the county offices or renew online via Kakamega County eRevenue system (if available in your area).

Additional Permits You May Need

Depending on your business type, you might also need:

Conclusion

Getting your business permit in Kakamega is simple if you follow the right steps. It legitimizes your operations, helps you access services like loans and tenders, and protects you from legal trouble. Always renew your license on time and keep your records up to date.