Every bottled water or refill business in Kenya needs a KEBS Standardization Mark (S-Mark) permit. Here is the process from KEBS’ own 2026–2027 requirements.
Step 1: Apply online
Apply on KIMS (kims.kebs.go.ke) with forms STA 10 (inspection report), STA 1 (application for the permit) and the Standards Levy notification form.
Step 2: Pay the fee
KEBS lists KSh 55,000 plus KSh 8,800 VAT; each additional product costs KSh 17,400, plus a KSh 50 eCitizen convenience fee. The permit is valid for two years.
Step 3: Prepare for inspection
- Valid public health approval/licence for the premises.
- Food handlers’ medical certificates for production staff.
- Labels that comply with KS EAS 38 and the product standard.
- Quality control records: hygiene schedules, recall and complaints procedures.
- PPE, hand-washing point with running water and food-grade sanitiser.
- Separate areas for raw materials, changing, production, packaging and storage; secure, segregated raw water tanks.
Documents the inspector will ask for
- KS EAS 153:2018 (packaged drinking water standard) – buy it from the KEBS webstore.
- Public health permit and staff medical certificates.
- Lab test report from a KENAS-accredited laboratory.
- Qualifications of your quality assurance person.
- Cleaning and maintenance schedules and a copy of your label.
Other licences
You will also need a county business permit.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the KEBS permit for bottled water?
KSh 55,000 + KSh 8,800 VAT, plus KSh 17,400 per additional product, per KEBS (2026–2027).
How long is the KEBS permit valid?
Two years.
Which standard applies to bottled water?
KS EAS 153:2018 for packaged drinking water.
Related: Business
Sources: KEBS. Last updated October 2026.
