How to Apply for a Tree Houses Operator License in Kenya

Operating a tree house facility in Kenya requires a valid Tree Houses Operator License issued by the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA). The process is done through the Tourism Regulatory Authority’s TRIMS Self-Service Portal, and involves several key steps from registration to inspection and approval.

Below is a step-by-step guide, including eligibility, requirements, fees, and contacts to help you successfully apply for the license.

Step-by-Step Application Procedure

Step 1: Register with the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) via TRIMS Portal

Visit the TRA TRIMS Self Service Portal.
On the homepage, click on the “Register” tab at the top right.
Fill in all the required fields accurately and click Register.
You will receive a registration submission notification.
Once approved, login credentials will be sent to your registered email to access the portal.

Step 2: Register Your Company/Business

Log in to the TRIMS Portal.
Select “Register an Entity” on the homepage.
Complete the Entity Registration Form by filling in details and uploading required documents.
After submitting, the Tourism License Online Application Form will appear. Fill it out, upload supporting documents, and click Submit.
A confirmation notification will be sent to your device.

Step 3: Verification by TRA

The TRA licensing office will review your documents and application to confirm compliance.
Once verified, you will receive an approval notification via email.

Step 4: Payment of Applicable Fees

The system generates an invoice under the Invoice Management section of your portal account.
Pay the required fees via TRA’s preferred payment method.
Share proof of payment with TRA.
Upon confirmation, a payment receipt will be sent to your portal.

Step 5: Inspection of Premises

TRA will schedule an inspection of your premises.
You or a representative must be present during the inspection and provide all requested information.
Both parties will sign the inspection findings. If any issues are identified, they must be corrected before licensing is approved.

Step 6: License Issuance

Once approved, TRA will notify you via email.
The license will be available for download and printing through your portal account.

Required Documents

For Entity Registration

Business Registration Certificate (CR12)
Single Business Permit
Income Tax Certificate (PIN)
Appointment Letter

For Tree Houses Operator License

Completed Tourism License Application Form
Copy of ID or Passport (for owner/director)
Copy of Lease Agreement or Title Deed of the premises
PIN Certificate (personal or company)

Eligibility

Any person or entity intending to operate a tree house tourism facility in Kenya is eligible to apply, provided they comply with TRA requirements.

Fees

Application Fee: Ksh 1,000
Annual License Fee: Ksh 21,000
License Renewal Fee: Ksh 21,000

Payment Details:

Account Name: Tourism Regulatory Authority
Account Number: 1178921034
Bank: KCB Bank – University Way Branch

Note:

Late payments attract a penalty of 10% of the fee per month.
All payments must be made via cash deposit to the TRA account.

Validity of License

The license is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Renewal must be done at least 30 days before expiry.
TRA reserves the right to revoke, cancel, or suspend a license if regulations are not met.

Contacts for Assistance

Tourism Regulatory Authority – Head Office
Utalii House, 5th Floor, Utalii Lane, off Uhuru Highway
P.O. Box 25357-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254 0701-444777
Email: [email protected]
Website: Tourism Regulatory Authority

Why You Need This License

Operating a tree house without a valid license is illegal under the Kenya Tourism Act. A license ensures that your business is recognized, regulated, and compliant with tourism standards, protecting both the operator and consumers.