Thinking of digging near a road? KURA outlines step-by-step guidelines for activities on urban road reserves
By Dan Kauna, September 2, 2026The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has outlined the procedures that individuals, private companies, and utility providers must follow before undertaking any activity within urban road reserves.
In an informative update shared on X on September 2, 2026, the roads agency detailed the technical steps necessary to obtain lawful access to designated road corridors.
Road reserves are preserved strips of land alongside highways and urban roads set aside for drainage, utility lines, footpaths, and future road expansions.
KURA highlighted that carrying out unauthorised works on these spaces creates safety hazards and damages public infrastructure.
The seven-step application process
To secure permission, applicants must first write a formal application letter addressed to the Director General requesting clearance to utilise the road reserve. This initial request must include all necessary technical documents relevant to the proposed project.
Once submitted, KURA conducts a technical assessment to review the design and evaluate potential impacts on traffic and existing utility infrastructure.
Applicants must then await formal communication from KURA regarding the outcome of the assessment.
If the project receives approval, the applicant must pay the prescribed fees and agree to comply with all specified permit conditions. All approved works must be executed directly under KURA supervision to ensure standards are maintained.
Once the project ends, the applicant is required to rectify any identified defects on the road reserve before applying for a deposit refund where applicable.
Essential approvals and documentation
To ensure a smooth assessment process, KURA requires applicants to submit specific supporting paperwork alongside their formal application letter.
Depending on the project scope, required documents include county government approval, a survey plan, a traffic management plan, and detailed design drawings.
For environmental compliance, applicants need National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) clearance, while projects near rivers or lakes require Water Resources Authority (WRA) approval.
Telecommunication works require approval from the Communications Commission of Kenya (CCK), along with a standard road inspection report.