Machakos County reminds traders and property owners to renew permits

News · Chrispho Owuor · March 18, 2026
Machakos County reminds traders and property owners to renew permits
Machakos County Governor. PHOTO/Wavinya X
In Summary

Developers are required to obtain necessary approvals before construction, while tenants in county housing must pay rent by the 5th of each month. Citizens are encouraged to use digital payment platforms for efficiency.

Machakos County Government on Wednesday urged all traders and property owners to renew permits, settle land rates, and pay ground rent before March 31, 2026, to avoid penalties.

Developers are required to obtain necessary approvals before construction, while tenants in county housing must pay rent by the 5th of each month. Citizens are encouraged to use digital payment platforms for efficiency.

The county has emphasized that Single Business Permits must be renewed on or before March 31, 2026; failure to comply will attract penalties, highlighting the need for traders to remain compliant with regulatory requirements.

In addition, land rates and ground rent obligations must also be settled before the end of March, with late payments incurring a cumulative monthly interest of 3 per cent.

Developers within Machakos County are reminded to secure development plan approvals and construction permits before undertaking any construction.

County officials have stressed that starting construction without the necessary approvals will constitute a violation of county regulations.

The directive aims to ensure that all development projects are carried out in line with county planning and safety standards.

Tenants in county-managed housing units are also under notice to pay rent on time, specifically before the fifth day of each month.

Failure to meet rental obligations may result in eviction or auctioning of the property to recover outstanding dues.

The county has reiterated that these measures are part of its broader effort to ensure accountability and maintain proper revenue collection for service delivery.

To facilitate easier compliance, Machakos County has urged citizens to utilise the Citizen Self-Service Portal, accessible online at https://citizen.machakos.go.ke, and other approved payment channels.

Payments can also be made via Kenya Commercial Bank, Machakos branch, using Paybill number 1616160 with the relevant invoice number. An alternative mobile payment option is available through dialling *859#.

The county government has emphasised that compliance with these directives supports broader objectives, including improved service delivery, urban development, and sustainable growth.

Authorities have also indicated that prompt payments and permit renewals are critical in maintaining order and enabling effective planning within the county.

Machakos County officials have reminded residents that the county office hours for in-person services run from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, providing opportunities for citizens to settle obligations without delays.

It encourages residents to plan ahead to avoid last-minute penalties and complications associated with overdue payments.

In its public notice, it reaffirmed that the measures aim to ensure smooth governance and continued development, while also promoting accountability among business operators, developers, and tenants.

Authorities have highlighted that all citizens have a responsibility to adhere to regulatory requirements, which collectively support Machakos County’s growth objectives.

The county also emphasised that utilising digital platforms ensures efficient, timely, and transparent transactions, reducing the risk of errors and unnecessary delays.

The government continues to advocate for adoption of these platforms, reflecting a broader push towards modernisation and citizen-centric service delivery.

In conclusion, Machakos County has made it clear that all business operators, property owners, developers, and tenants must prioritise compliance with permit renewals, payment of land rates and rent, and securing of development approvals.

Authorities stress that adherence to these requirements will not only avoid penalties but will also contribute to the orderly growth and prosperity of Machakos County.

Join the Conversation

Enjoyed this story? Share it with a friend:

MOST READ THIS MONTH

Stay Bold. Stay Informed.
Be the first to know about Kenya's breaking stories and exclusive updates. Tap 'Yes, Thanks' and never miss a moment of bold insights from Radio Generation Kenya.