Development Application
Service Description
What is a Development Application: A development application is the formal request submitted to the County Government for permission to undertake new construction, change an existing development, or carry out a substantial project. It is guided by Section 57 of the Physical and Land Use Planning Act (PLUPA), 2019, and Section 36 of the Urban Areas and Cities Act, 2011. The process ensures projects comply with zoning regulations, physical development plans, and infrastructure capacity. Why it matters: Submitting a compliant development application: -Ensures alignment with approved county physical and strategic plans -Prevents enforcement issues or future project delays -Supports public accountability through participation -Enables smooth review and approval by county technical committees -Strengthens your case for project financing, insurance, or partnership Who should undertake a development application: -Developers starting new residential, commercial, or industrial projects -Property owners altering or expanding existing developments -Consultants acting on behalf of landowners or investors Client requirements (submit via LSS portal): 1. Ownership documents – title deed or lease certificate (Land Registration Act, 2012, Section 25) 2. Recent land search – conducted within the last 3 months (Land Registration Act, 2012, Section 34) 3. Survey plan or cadastral map (PLUPA Section 57(1)) 4. Architectural or site development plans – draft or final (PLUPA Section 57(2)) 5. Structural, mechanical, or electrical drawings – if available 6. Proof of land rent payment or clearance certificate – mandatory for leasehold properties (Land Act, 2012, Section 32) What LSS will do: 1. Prepare Form PLUPA/DC/1A–1F (official development application forms) – PLUPA Section 57(2) 2. Draft public notification notices: a. For two daily newspapers of national circulation – PLUPA Section 58(7) b. For on-site posting at the project location – PLUPA Section 58(8) Develop a planning brief outlining: a. Project scope and description b. Zoning compliance c. Development impact – PLUPA Section 57(3) and Urban Areas and Cities Act, Section 36 Review submitted plans for compliance with: a. County development plans b. Applicable building codes – PLUPA Section 57(1)