Drilling Boreholes Water Rights WRMA Permit

💧 1. Drilling Boreholes & WRMA/Water Rights – Law Simplified (Kenya) In Kenya, drilling a borehole requires permission from the Water Resources Authority (WRA) (formerly WRMA) under the Water Act, 2016. All underground water is classified as a public resource and must be accessed legally and sustainably. Drilling without a permit is an offense and can lead to fines or sealing of the borehole. 2. Procedure to Follow by Scenario Scenario What to Do 🏠 You’re a homeowner drilling for private use Hire a WRA-licensed hydrogeologist → Apply for water permit (Groundwater Abstraction) 💼 You run a business (e.g. hotel, farm, estate) Same process, but WRA may require Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) if high volumes involved 🧑🏽‍🤝‍🧑🏽 You’re part of a community water project Register Water Users Association → Apply via the group 🛠️ You’ve already drilled without approval Apply for regularization permit through WRA urgently 🔄 You want to sell water Apply for Water Use Permit for Commercial Supply + possibly a license from county public health office 3. Required Documents Copy of National ID or Certificate of Incorporation KRA PIN Land ownership proof (Title Deed or Lease Agreement) Land Control Board...