Steps to Register for a NEMA License to Operate a Storage Facility
A complete guide for waste management entities seeking a License to Own/Operate a Waste Treatment or Disposal Site under Kenya's 2024 Regulations.
For any entity involved in waste management, registration is not just a formality — it is a foundational requirement for operations. This guide walks you through the process aligned with the Environmental Management and Coordination (Waste Management) Regulations, 2024 – LN 178/2024.
Access the full regulation: Waste Management Regulations 2024 →
Overview of the Waste Management Regulations 2024
The 2024 Waste Management Regulations represent a significant tightening of Kenya's waste governance framework. Key provisions include:
- Governs transport, storage, processing, treatment, and disposal of waste.
- Ensures environmentally sound handling from generation to final disposal.
- Mandatory segregation at source into Organic (Green), Recyclable (Blue), and General/Non-recyclable (Black) fractions.
- Waste may only be handled by licensed transporters and facilities.
- Entities must keep records of waste generation and disposal.
Key Requirements Before Registration
Mandatory Segregation at Source
The facility must demonstrate capacity to handle segregated waste, separated into three categories:
- Organic (Green) — biodegradable and food waste streams
- Recyclable (Blue) — plastics, metals, paper, glass
- General / Non-recyclable (Black) — residual waste for disposal
Registration as a Waste Service Provider
Beyond the basic NEMA license, the 2024 regulations require all waste handlers to be registered within the National Waste Information System.
Detailed Waste Management Plan (EPR-Aligned)
Applicants must submit a plan that specifically details how they will assist Producers in meeting their Take-Back obligations under the EPR Regulations.
County Government Clearance
A County Business Permit specifically for waste operations must be obtained before NEMA can finalise the license.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
An EIA Study Report for the site must be submitted, conducted by a NEMA-registered lead expert. NEMA will review this and, if satisfied, issue an EIA license — which is a mandatory prerequisite for the operating license.
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Navigate to the official NEMA licensing portal to begin your application.
licensing.nema.go.ke/login →Click Create Account and enter your KRA PIN, email address, and a password. Submit registration and activate your account via the verification email titled "NEMA Portal Registration".
Sign in using your registered email and password once your account has been activated.
Go to NEMA Services → click New license Application under Licensing → select license to Own/Operate Waste Treatment Plant/Disposal Site.
Complete all required sections including applicant details, facility details, disposal/storage site information, and waste categories handled. Ensure all information matches your EIA approval.
Choose the option that matches your operations (see facility types below). This determines which license category is applied to your facility.
Upload your National ID (individuals) or Company Registration Certificate, plus your valid EIA license. Ensure documents are clear and properly scanned.
Download the generated invoice from the portal. Select your preferred payment mode and complete the transaction. After payment confirmation, return to the portal and click Complete to finalise on eCitizen.
Selecting the Correct Facility Type (Step 6)
When filling in details for the operating/disposal site, select the option that best matches your operations:
- Material Recovery Facility (MRF)
- Waste Processing Area
- Transfer Station & Storage Yard
- Waste Re-use Area
- Composting Plant
- Recycling Plant
- Autoclave
- Biomedical Waste Treatment Microwave
- Biomedical Decomposition Plant
- Pyrolysis Plant
- Incinerator / Landfill
- Integrated Waste Management Site
- Waste-to-Energy Plant
- Deep Burial Site
- Incinerator / Transfer Station / Recycling Plant
Why You Must Register for a NEMA license
KEPRO's Role in Supporting Your Compliance Journey
As Kenya's leading Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) for non-hazardous packaging waste, KEPRO can only legally partner with NEMA-licensed service providers. Ensuring your own operations are compliant is critical for a functional EPR model.
- EPR Alignment: We help facilities understand how NEMA licensing connects to EPR obligations.
- Compliance Guidance: Our team provides practical support on regulatory requirements.
- Network Access: Registered, compliant facilities can integrate into KEPRO's verified service provider network.