WRMA borehole permit requirements Kenya

To legally drill and operate a borehole in Kenya, you must obtain a water use permit from the Water Resources Authority (WRA), formerly known as the Water Resources Management Authority (WRMA). This process ensures sustainable water resource management and compliance with national regulations.

✅ Key Requirements for a Borehole Permit

1. Hydrogeological Survey Report

   • Conducted by a licensed hydrogeologist to assess groundwater availability, depth, and quality.LinkedIn

2. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

   • Required for certain projects to evaluate potential environmental effects. The EIA must be approved by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).Tunnel Drilling+1LinkedIn+1

3. Letter of No Objection

   • Obtained from the relevant county water service provider, confirming no conflict with existing water services.

4. Application Submission

   • Complete the Water Abstraction Permit Application Form (WRMA 001A) and submit it along with the above documents to the WRA.renewableenergy.go.ke+1Scribd+1

📝 Application Process Overview

1. Document Verification

   • WRA reviews submitted documents for completeness and accuracy.

2. Public Notification

   • The application is subjected to public notification as per Water Resources Management Rule 29.FAOLEX+2gwinsight.com+2Scribd+2

3. Technical Evaluation

   • WRA’s Technical Evaluation Committees assess the application, considering factors like water availability and potential impacts.

4. Authorization to Drill

   • If approved, WRA issues authorization to commence drilling activities.

5. Post-Drilling Requirements

   • Submit a Borehole Completion Record, water quality analysis report, and other relevant documents.Scribd+3gwinsight.com+3Water Resources Authority+3

6. Final Inspection and Permit Issuance

   • WRA conducts a final inspection to ensure compliance before issuing the water use permit.gwinsight.com+1Scribd+1

📌 Permit Categories

WRA classifies water use permits into four categories based on the scale and potential impact:gwinsight.com

• Category A: Low-risk activities with minimal impact.

• Category B: Moderate-risk activities.

• Category C: High-risk activities requiring detailed evaluation.

• Category D: Activities involving international waters or significant impact, requiring comprehensive assessment.gwinsight.com

📍 Contact Information

For further assistance or to obtain application forms:

Water Resources Authority (WRA)

• Address: NHIF Building, 9th Floor, Ngong Road, Nairobi, Kenya

• Phone: +254 20 2732291

• Email: info@wra.go.ke

• Website: www.wra.go.keTunnel Drilling+3gwinsight.com+3Scribd+3wra.gov.jm+5Scribd+5Water Resources Authority+5

It’s advisable to consult with licensed professionals experienced in the borehole permitting process to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.