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How to Get KEBS Certification for Bottled Water in Kenya: Step by Step

By the Herritech Ventures engineering team · Updated 29 September 2026

Quick answer: To sell packaged (sealed) drinking water in Kenya you need the KEBS Standardization Mark. Set up hygienic premises and treatment, test your product water, apply to KEBS, pass the premises inspection and product tests, then use the mark on your labels and keep the permit renewed.

Key facts

Packaged drinking water must meet the Kenyan standard and carry the KEBS mark
KEBS inspects the premises and tests product samples
You also need a county business permit and public health approval
Design the premises before you build: it saves rework

Step 1: Set up the premises

Separate areas for raw water, treatment, filling and storage.
Washable walls and floors, good lighting and hand-washing points.
No toilets or waste opening directly into the filling room.

Step 2: Install proper treatment and filling

Branded bottled water packaging from an H-TECH station — Branding and packaging: labels must carry the KEBS mark, batch number and dates.

Most bottlers use sediment and carbon filtration, RO (or UF for low-TDS water), UV or ozone, a bottle washer or rinser, a filler and a sealer. See RO plant sizing and our RO stations.

Step 3: Test your water

Have product water tested by an accredited laboratory for the parameters in the standard (microbiology, TDS, pH and others) and keep the reports.

Step 4: Apply to KEBS

Apply for the Standardization Mark permit with your business registration, product details and premises information. Pay the fees KEBS sets for application, inspection and testing.

Step 5: Inspection and product testing

KEBS officers inspect the premises and processes and take samples. Fix any issues they raise and they re-inspect if needed.

Step 6: Label and stay compliant

Print the Standardization Mark, batch number and dates on every label.
Keep treatment and cleaning records.
Renew the permit on time and expect surveillance visits.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need KEBS to sell bottled water?

Yes. Packaged drinking water must carry the KEBS Standardization Mark.

How long does KEBS certification take?

It depends on inspection scheduling, test results and any corrections. Plan the premises correctly to avoid delays.

Do refill shops need KEBS?

KEBS certification is for packaged products. Refill shops must meet county public health requirements; confirm the current rules with your county.

What equipment does KEBS expect?

Reliable treatment, hygienic filling and sealing, and records. The exact requirements are set by the standard and the inspection.