Sakaja warns property owners as Nairobi opens final window to legalize unauthorized buildings

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has issued a stern warning to property owners with illegal or unapproved buildings, urging them to take advantage of a limited window to regularise their developments or face legal action once the grace period ends.

Speaking during the United Winner DT Sacco’s 25th Anniversary celebrations, Sakaja said the county is fully committed to enforcing planning and building regulations under the new Regularisation of Unauthorised Development Act, 2025.

“If you know you have an illegal building, you have a window to regularise. Please come and regularise. When that window closes, that’s it; the law will take its course,” Sakaja cautioned.

The Nairobi City County Government will, after the deadline, launch a citywide crackdown to bring thousands of unauthorised structures into compliance with urban planning and safety standards.

A public notice from the Department of Built Environment and Urban Planning has already invited developers, property owners, and land-buying companies to apply for regularisation.

“It’s not about money; it’s our duty to ensure urban development happens in an orderly manner — with proper public utilities, access for emergencies, and structural integrity. That’s why we’re giving this window to regularise. After that, we will take action,” Sakaja emphasised.

According to the governor, the initiative seeks to legitimize buildings constructed without proper approvals, provided they meet the county’s minimum safety and planning requirements. However, structures that fail to comply will face enforcement under the Physical and Land Use Planning Act, 2019.

Areas most affected include Ruai, Kasarani, Mwiki, Roysambu, and parts of Embakasi, where unapproved developments and land disputes have long posed challenges to orderly urban growth.

Chief Officer for Urban Development and Planning Patrick Analo affirmed that the exercise is lawful and equitable.

“Some of these matters have been through the courts, and rulings were made. We are now giving property owners a fair chance to regularise before enforcement begins,” he noted.

All applications must be submitted through registered professionals, including physical planners, architects, structural engineers, and environmental experts, via the Nairobi Planning and Development Management System (NPDMS).

Governor Sakaja reiterated that the county’s ultimate goal is to restore order in Nairobi’s built environment, protect public safety, and ensure all developments align with the city’s long-term urban growth plan.