Parking in Nairobi especially during weekdays is a daunting task, from finding a spot and everything else that ensues this post covers it all
I think the city mainly focuses on cars when planning its infrastructure. They haven’t really thought about making space for pedestrians and cyclists, as the sidewalks are uneven and there are no bike lanes. Because of this, having a car seems almost necessary. Since everyone feels the same way, it creates a struggle to find parking spots.
County askaris(Kanjo) in Nairobi who facilitate parking activities can be frustrating and crooked, especially towards motorists. There have been numerous incidents where they clamp cars just after 4:00 pm, even though parking fees officially stop at that time. They often harass motorists and ask for bribes for minor or non-existent violations.
Parking in Nairobi
Parking in Nairobi, on-street or off-street, presents challenges, especially in the Central Business District (CBD). While off-street parking lots are limited, on-street parking is the most common option, albeit with its own set of difficulties in finding a spot- a delightful dance between finding a spot and avoiding becoming a human ATM for the “parking boys”
Regulated by the Nairobi City County government (NCC), parking in the CBD follows designated zones and attendant fees. Understanding this system is crucial to avoid fines and inconveniences, as parking attendants, often clad in bright yellow overalls, enforce regulations.
Alongside the official fees to NCC, you might find yourself navigating the delicate art of tipping security guards and parking attendants. It’s a bit like a mandatory gratuity, with a side of guilt trip if you dare to question it.
For individuals considering driving further into the CBD, particularly new drivers, encountering crooked county officers can be a concern. To mitigate such encounters, strictly adhering to traffic regulations is advisable.
Additionally, having a clear understanding of CBD routes, parking zones, and alternative parking options can help navigate the area more efficiently and reduce the likelihood of confrontations with exploitative individuals.
Parking Location & Fees
Parking fees in Nairobi vary depending on the type of vehicle and the area where you park. There are Zone I and II
- Zone I: CBD, Kijabe Street, Westlands, Upper Hill, Ngara, Highridge, Kilimani, Yaya Centre, Milimani, Hurlingham, Lavington, Karen, Eastleigh, Muthaiga, Gikomba and Nairobi West. Industrial Area and Gigiri.
- Zone II: Commercial Streets and Markets
Zone I parking rates per day
- Salon Car: KSh 300
- Vans & Pickup Trucks: KSh 500
- Lorries & Minibuses: KSh 2,000
- Lorries >5tonnes: KSh 3,500
Zone II parking rates per day
- Salon Car: KSh 100
- Vans & Pickup Trucks: KSh 150
- Lorries > 5tonnes :KSh 500
For areas with automated parking meters, it is KSh 100 for the first hour and then KSh 50 for every other hour.
How to Pay for Parking in Nairobi
Using USSD Codes
- Dial *647# which is the USSD code for Nairobi Pay, pays everything from parking to licences and bills
- Select Option 1 for Parking Services
- Next, You have the option to pay for Daily parking seasonal parking, and off-street parking
- For daily parking, you select your region numbered from CBD as option 1 to 33 for County Markets
- After Selecting your area next you enter your license plate number, and the system will look at the class of vehicle and tell you the amount to pay, if you wish to proceed say yes and you will get an STK push prompting you to enter your M-PESA PIN to pay
- For Seasonal Parking, your ID number is required to proceed
Using Paybill/ M-PESA App
This is more convenient and faster than the traditional USSD that requires airtime. In the M-PESA app home page, scroll down to Public sector>myNairobi>Nairobi Pay>Enter Vehicle Number Plate>Select Parking Zone, then you will be told the amount required and the vehicle type based on the number plate, any penalties on your number plate will be added so you have the total amount which you can proceed to settle.
Paying Online
This is done through a web portal https://nairobiservices.go.ke/ select parking services and follow instructions which are just the same as before from the other methods, this method requires creating an accoun(which is a painful process itself), and probably doesnt work most of the time.
How to Pay Parking Fines/ Penalties
Penalties can occur due to a number of reasons including
- Exceeding the allotted parking time.
- Parking in restricted areas or zones.
- Parking without paying the required fee.
- Parking in areas reserved for emergency vehicles or authorized personnel.
- Parking in spaces designated for specific purposes (e.g., loading zones, disabled parking).
- Parking in a manner that obstructs traffic flow or endangers other road users.
Violation of any of these will result to your vehicle getting clamped and a penalty issued to your number plate
Here’s a guide on settling parking penalties:
- Use the same process outlined for daily on-street parking payments, either via USSD Code or the Nairobi Pay Web Portal.
- You’ll receive an M-Pesa payment request on your phone. Enter your M-Pesa PIN and confirm the payment.
- Once the payment is successful, you’ll receive a confirmation SMS from both your mobile service provider and NRB_Revenue.
Vehicle Clamped, What Next?
- Check the “Parking Charge Notice” on your car’s windscreen for payment instructions. Follow these instructions carefully.
- Call the phone number provided for the relevant zone if you need guidance on how to proceed.
- Pay any fines or outstanding fees as instructed in the notice.
- After making payment, look for parking officials to verify and unclamp your vehicle.
- Be patient and cooperative throughout the process to ensure a smooth resolution.
The easiest way is just to walk to City Hall, make payments for the clamping charges and an attendant will unclamp you.
Vehicle Towed, What to do?
Towing is uncommon in Nairobi unless you block crucial areas or commit severe violations. It’s a costly and cumbersome process. If your vehicle is towed, you’ll need to contact City Hall to determine the next steps which generally involves paying towing charges, fines and being led to the impound yard where your vehicle ended at.
Free Parking Days and Hours in Nairobi
If you drive your own car in Nairobi, you don’t have to pay for parking on Saturdays until June 30, 2024. Usually, parking is free after 2:00 pm on Saturdays, all day on Sundays, and on public holidays.
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