Parking in Nairobi can be confusing, especially if you are new to the city. Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya, and it is known for busy roads and limited parking spaces. But with the right steps, paying for parking can be simple. This guide will help you understand Parking Fees in Nairobi, how to pay them, and other important rules you should know.
Before 2019, people used Jambo Pay to pay for parking in Nairobi. Today, the city uses the Internal Revenue Management System (IRMS). This new system lets drivers pay using mobile money, such as M-PESA. This means you can pay right from your phone.
Whether you live in Nairobi or are just visiting, this guide will make it easier for you to handle parking.
How to Pay for Parking in Nairobi
Using a Mobile Phone (USSD Code)
The easiest way to pay Parking Fees in Nairobi is by using your mobile phone. Follow these steps:
- Dial *647# on your phone.
- Choose “1” for parking services.
- You will see options like:
- Daily Parking
- Seasonal Parking
- Off-Street Parking
- Penalties
- Parking Status
- Offloading Zone
- Back
- Main Menu
- Choose “1” for Daily Parking.
- Enter your car’s number plate (no spaces).
- Choose your parking zone.
- Select your vehicle type (for example, a private car).
- The fee for a private car is Ksh 200.
- Confirm by selecting “1” to pay.
- Enter your M-PESA PIN.
You will get a message to show that your payment was successful.
Using the NRS Web Portal
You can also use the internet to pay Parking Fees in Nairobi:
- Go to nairobiservices.go.ke
- Choose “Parking Services” then “Daily Parking.”
- Enter your car number plate.
- Select your parking zone.
- Enter your phone number.
- A message will appear asking you to pay using M-PESA.
- Enter your M-PESA PIN and click OK.
- You will get a message showing your payment was successful.
Off-Street Parking in Nairobi
Off-street parking is when you park in a parking lot or area that is not next to the road. You pay when you leave the parking area. You can still use the same mobile methods.
Pay with USSD Code
- Dial *647# on your phone.
- Choose “Parking Services” then “Off-Street Parking.”
- Enter your vehicle number plate.
- You will get a message to pay with M-PESA.
- Enter your M-PESA PIN and press OK.
- You will get an SMS showing your payment was successful.
Pay with Web Portal
- Visit nairobiservices.go.ke
- Go to “Parking Services” then “Off-Street Parking.”
- Type your vehicle number and click “Checkout.”
- Enter your mobile number.
- A message will show for M-PESA payment.
- Enter your PIN and press OK.
- You will get an SMS after the payment goes through.
These new ways of paying have made it much easier to handle Parking Fees in Nairobi. You do not need to worry about carrying cash or looking for an attendant.
Seasonal Parking
Seasonal parking is for people who park in the city every day. This is a good option for those who work or live in Nairobi.
How to Get Seasonal Parking
- Visit nairobiservices.go.ke
- Click “Parking Services” then “Seasonal Parking.”
- Enter your car number plate.
- Select the parking duration and start date.
- An invoice will appear for you to pay.
- Choose your payment method.
- After payment, click “Check Payment.”
- The system will confirm your payment.
- A receipt will be ready under “Transaction History.”
Paying Parking Penalties in Nairobi
Sometimes you may forget to pay or stay too long in one place. If this happens, you might get a fine. You can still pay the fine using the same methods:
Steps to Pay a Penalty
- Use *647# or go to nairobiservices.go.ke
- Choose “Penalties” from the menu.
- Follow the steps and pay using M-PESA.
- You will get a message once your payment is complete.
Nairobi Parking Frequently Asked Questions
How much is daily parking in Nairobi?
The daily parking fee in Nairobi is Ksh 200. This applies to both on-street and off-street parking. Private parking areas are more expensive and can cost up to Ksh 700 per day, but they offer extra safety.
If you want a long-term option, Nairobi County offers seasonal tickets:
- Ksh 3,000 for one month
- Ksh 13,000 for three months
- Ksh 24,000 for six months
These tickets are great for people who drive daily in the city.
What happens if my car is clamped?
If your car is clamped, look for a notice on the windscreen. Follow the instructions on how to pay. There will be a phone number listed to call for help if needed.
Where are the impound yards?
If your car is towed, you can find it in one of these places:
- General Stores Yard on Race Course Road near St. Peters Catholic Church
- Dagoreti Yard on Ngong Road near the Kenya Meteorological Department
Is there free parking in Nairobi?
Yes, you can find free parking during these times:
- After 2:00 PM on Saturdays
- All day on Sundays
- On public holidays
- On Fridays, near mosques from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM (during prayer time)
These free parking rules make it easier for people to move around on weekends or special days.
What are the parking hours?
Parking hours in Nairobi are from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM every day, including weekends and holidays. This means you should always make sure your car is moved before 9:00 PM.
More Common Questions About Parking Fees in Nairobi
How much is hourly parking?
In some places, the parking fee is charged per hour:
- Ksh 200 per hour for on-street parking
- Ksh 400 per hour for off-street parking
This can be more expensive, so it’s better to pay daily if you’ll be parked for a long time.
Can I use mobile money like M-PESA?
Yes, mobile money is accepted. You can use M-PESA, Airtel Money, or T-Kash. This makes it easy and fast to pay Parking Fees in Nairobi.
What happens if I stay too long?
If you park longer than what you paid for, you will have to pay an extra fee. The extra amount is based on how long you stayed and is charged at the same rate.
Are there parking spots for people with disabilities?
Yes, Nairobi has special parking spaces for people with disabilities. These are clearly marked and are usually near building entrances.
Can I park overnight?
No, overnight parking is not allowed. You should park between 6:00 AM and 9:00 PM only. Cars parked overnight may be towed or fined.
What should I do if I get a parking ticket?
You should pay the fine as soon as possible. If you delay, the cost may go up, or your car may be clamped or taken to an impound yard. Use the USSD code or website to make your payment quickly.
Conclusion
Understanding Parking Fees in Nairobi is important if you plan to drive in the city. With the help of mobile payment systems like M-PESA and the Nairobi Services Web Portal, it is now easier and faster to pay for parking. Whether you are parking on the street, in a parking lot, or need seasonal parking, the systems are there to help you.
Make sure to always pay on time and follow the rules. This helps avoid penalties or problems like getting your car clamped or towed.
For more helpful travel tips, check out Travel With Bony, where you can find easy guides about city travel, places to visit, and how to make your trips smooth and stress-free.
