KIAMBU BUILDING PLANS APPROVAL PROCESS 2026 | MARKMAN BUILD  

The building plan approval process in Kiambu County is currently in a state of transition. While the County had previously moved to an online system known as E-DAMS (Electronic Development Applications Management System), the county government has since terminated its use due to widespread complaints of inefficiency and is in the process of establishing a new digital platform.

Here is a step-by-step breakdown of the process and key requirements you need to know.

Important: System Transition Alert

Before you begin, be aware that Governor Kimani Wamatangi terminated the E-DAMS system, citing “grave inefficiency” and claims that the system was intentionally manipulated to frustrate developers and facilitate bribery. While applications were previously submitted online by licensed professionals, the county is now assembling a new, more efficient integrated digital system to automate approvals and remove manual document handling.

Because of this transition, it is critical to contact the Department of Land, Housing, Physical Planning & Municipalities directly for the current live application link or physical submission requirements before preparing your documents.

  • Hotline: +254 0742 000 888 / 0103 000 888

  • Email: info@kiambu.go.ke

Step-by-Step Approval Process (General Framework)

The general stages of approval, which remain largely similar despite the system change, are as follows:

  1. Planning and Design: You will need to engage licensed professionals to develop your plans. An architect must handle the architectural drawings, and a structural engineer must handle the structural designs.

  2. Application Submission: Your appointed professional (like an architect or physical planner) submits the application along with the required documents. Previously this was done via E-DAMS; currently, you must verify the new submission method with the county.

  3. Review and Assessment: County officials review the application for compliance with zoning and building regulations. This may involve site visits and consultations with other departments like Public Health, Fire, and Roads.

  4. Consultation and Public Participation: For certain developments, the county may require public participation or hearings to gather community feedback.

  5. Decision and Issuance: If approved, the county issues the necessary construction permits. If denied, they will request additional information.

📄 Documents Required for Submission

Before you submit your application, ensure you have compiled the following documents. These are required for any approval process within the county:

  • Ownership Documents: Copy of Title Deed or Lease Certificate.

  • Land Search: An official search from the Lands Registry dated not more than 3 months old.

  • Clearance Certificate: Current Land Rates Clearance Certificate from the county.

  • Survey Documents: Survey Map or Approved Sub-division plan from the Survey of Kenya.

  • Architectural Drawings: Prepared and signed by a BORAQS-registered architect (include site plan, floor plans, elevations, and sections).

  • Structural Drawings: Prepared and certified by an ERB-registered structural engineer (include foundation design, schedules, and calculations).

  • Soil Investigation Report: Required for multi-storey or complex structures.

  • NEMA Approval: An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report or project report prepared by a NEMA-registered expert.

  • Other Permits: Change of user permit (if the building use differs from the land’s zoning) or subdivision approval (if relevant).

 Important Legal Note: Don’t Risk Penalties

The county government has recently reiterated that “no development can proceed without proper approval,” warning that violators face fines or imprisonment. Unauthorized construction (including renovations and changes of use) is illegal, and the county has recently issued eviction notices for illegal structures on public land.

Navigating the Kiambu County building approvals process can be challenging, especially with the ongoing system transitions. But don’t let bureaucracy delay your dream project.

At MARKMAN BUILD COMPANY, we don’t just build structures—we build peace of mind. Our team stays updated on the latest county requirements, ensuring your plans are compliant, your documents are complete, and your approval process runs as smoothly as possible.

🏗️ Ready to break ground? Let us handle the paperwork while you focus on the vision.

📍 Location: Nairobi, Kenya
📞 Phone: 0729001366 / 0720277948
📧 Email: info@markmanbuild.com
🛠️ Motto: “Built Strong. Built Right.”