Apply For A Kansas Building Permit
What projects require a building permit in Kansas?
Generally, in Kansas you will need to obtain a building permit for any project that involves constructing new buildings, remodeling or structurally altering existing buildings, and for demolishing. Basic repairs and finishing work such as painting and carpeting normally do not require a building permit. Because building permits are issued by the municipality where the property is located, requirements can vary, especially on smaller projects such as swimming pool installation, fence building, and decks.
Who in Kansas do I submit my permit application to?
Permitting is normally handled by your city building division except in the case of unincorporated areas where it is the county who will process your application and issue the permit. The name of the actual office in charge of business permitting varies throughout Kansas. For example, it is the Department of Zoning and Codes in Douglas County but the Office of Central Inspection in Wichita. Keep in mind that there are numerous types of permits that you may be required to get, and some projects will require permits and approvals from agencies and departments other than the building division.
Are there different requirements if the project concerns a residential building or a commercial one?
Some cities do have a separate process for residential and commercial projects, although the overall process is generally similar. Wichita, for instance, has different applications for residential building permits and commercial building permits, but the information asked on each is essentially the same. The biggest difference you are likely to encounter is in zoning approvals, since there are more complicated considerations for commercial zoning than residential. For this and other related reasons, building permits for commercial construction will often take longer to be issued. Normally you must have zoning approval before applying for your building permit and beginning construction.
What information will I need to submit with the building permit application?
In Kansas, the building permit application will normally require that you give some basic information concerning the proposed project. This includes:
• Address of the property
• Name and contact information of the owner
• The type of permit you are applying for
• The names and contact information for any contractors being used
• Description of the proposed construction
• Type of project (addition, new construction, remodel, etc.)
• An estimated valuation of the construction
You will also need to submit copies of drawn plans for the proposed construction. Some cities have additional requirements as well. For instance, Lawrence requires that you give the license information for all contractors and subcontractors that you plan to use while Douglas County requires that you submit a copy of the property deed with your application. You can usually get the specific requirements for the permit application from your local city website.
CLICK THE LINK TO YOUR CITY BELOW TO APPLY FOR A BUILDING PERMIT
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