Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson has issued a stern warning to property owners with illegal or unapproved buildings, urging them to take advantage of a limited window to regularize their developments or face legal action and enforcement once the deadline lapses
Speaking during the United Winner DT Sacco’s 25th Anniversary celebrations, Governor Sakaja said the county is determined to enforce planning laws under the new Regularization of Unauthorized Development Act, 2025.
“If you know you have an illegal building, you have a window to regularize. Please come and regularize. When that window closes, that’s it the law will take its course,” Sakaja cautioned.
The Nairobi City County Government will, after the window period, launch a crackdown to bring thousands of unauthorized structures into compliance with urban planning and safety standards. A public notice by the Department of Built Environment and Urban Planning has already invited developers, property owners, and land-buying companies to apply for regularization.
“It’s not about money; it’s our duty to ensure that urban development is done in an orderly manner with proper public utilities, access for emergencies, and structural integrity, That’s why we’re giving this window to regularize. After that, we will take action.”Sakaja continued
According to Governor Sakaja, the initiative aims to legitimize structures built without permits but which meet the county’s minimum planning and safety requirements. However, buildings that fail to comply will face enforcement under the Physical and Land Use Planning Act, 2019.
Affected areas include Ruai, Kasarani, Mwiki, Roysambu, and parts of Embakasi, where land disputes and unapproved developments have long posed planning challenges.
Chief Officer for Urban Development and Planning Patrick Analo earlier emphasized that the exercise is both lawful and fair.
“Some of these matters went to court and rulings were made. We are now giving property owners a chance to regularize before enforcement begins,” he said.
All applications must be filed through registered professionals — including physical planners, architects, structural engineers, and environmental experts — via the Nairobi Planning and Development Management System (NPDMS).
Sakaja maintains that the move is meant to restore order in Nairobi’s built environment, protect public safety, and ensure all developments conform to the city’s urban growth plan.
