Permits and licences for a laundry or cleaning business in Kenya

Updated 24 October 2026

To open a laundry or cleaning business in Kenya, register a business name on eCitizen (about KSh 950), get a KRA PIN, and pay your county’s business permit (in Nairobi about KSh 15,000 a year for a small business). Fumigation also needs a licence from the Pest Control Products Board.

Everyone

These apply to any small laundry or cleaning business. Fees change; check each one before you pay.

  • Business name: register on eCitizen (Business Registration Service), about KSh 950.
  • KRA PIN: free on iTax; you need it for permits, M-Pesa Till or Paybill, and tenders.
  • County business permit: Nairobi’s unified business permit is about KSh 15,000 a year for a small business with up to 5 staff; other counties set their own.
  • M-Pesa Till or Paybill: apply through Safaricom with your business documents.

Fumigation and pest control

Fumigation is regulated: the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) licenses commercial pest control operators and the products they use. Offices and tenders often ask for a valid PCPB certificate. Check the current requirements and fee with PCPB before you start offering fumigation.

Hiring staff

When you employ people, register as an employer with KRA for PAYE and the Affordable Housing Levy, and with NSSF and SHA; keep a written contract and pay records for each person.

Questions

How much is a single business permit in Nairobi?

About KSh 15,000 a year for a small business with up to 5 staff under the unified business permit; confirm on the county’s payment site.

Do I need NEMA approval for a laundry?

Ask your county and NEMA where you open: requirements depend on your size and how waste water is handled.

Who licenses fumigation companies in Kenya?

The Pest Control Products Board (PCPB).

Sources

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