Nairobi new noise permits: How much weddings, churches, roadshows and events will pay
By Dan Kauna, August 24, 2026If you are planning to throw an outdoor party, host a wedding, or run a loud roadshow in Nairobi, you will need to prepare your budget for an extra line item.
Under the Nairobi City County Finance Act 2026, City Hall has officially introduced noise permit fees targeting functions and operations that emit loud sound across the capital.
Why Nairobi introduced the charges
The new fees come as City Hall moves to curb noise pollution in residential neighbourhoods.
Recently, residents in mixed-use areas like Kilimani and Kileleshwa have constantly complained about disturbances from loud night spots, outdoor religious gatherings, and private parties.
However, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja on Monday August 24, 2026, explained that the county aims to balance regulation with business growth rather than just punish residents.
“Since we came into office, we have deliberately created space for filmmakers and content creators to work freely in Nairobi because we recognise the creative sector as both a source of livelihoods and a powerful way of marketing our city to the world. We will not introduce measures that stifle that creativity,” Sakaja said in an official statement.
How much you will pay
Couples planning a wedding in a residential area will now need to pay Ksh20,000 for a noise permit per event.
Those opting for garden weddings will pay a lower fee of Ksh10,000 per function.
Places of worship have not been left out. Churches and mosques are required to secure an annual Noise Emission Control Permit at a flat fee of Ksh5,000 to cover their regular services.
For marketers running roadshows, permit fees depend on the vehicle size.
A roadshow using a saloon car costs Ksh10,000, minivans pay Ksh30,000, while heavy trucks and canters attract a Ksh50,000 fee.
Meanwhile, organisers hosting an outdoor night concert face a single event permit fee of Ksh100,000.
Entertainment venues will pay annual licence fees based on their guest capacity.
Small establishments accommodating up to 100 people will pay Ksh20,000, those holding 101 to 500 people will pay Ksh50,000, and big venues holding over 500 people will pay Ksh100,000.
Additionally, construction sites doing heavy drilling, excavation, or demolition work must secure a Ksh20,000 permit.
County compliance officers have made it clear that getting a permit does not give anyone freedom to play loud music beyond approved decibel levels or past set operating hours.
Venue owners who break the noise rules or operate without a permit risk paying fines of up to three times the initial licence fee.