Kansas relies heavily on local building departments, so knowing how each city or county handles Kansas building permits is essential. Whether it’s Wichita, Overland Park, or rural townships, you’ll learn what needs a permit, who issues them, typical fees, timelines, and practical insights for smooth permitting.
Who issues building permits in Kansas?
The state of Kansas does not have a centralized permitting process. Instead, permits are handled locally, at the city or county level.
Examples include:
- City of Lawrence – Building Safety Division, through its Enterprise Permitting & Licensing (EPL) system
- Johnson County – Building Codes division covers residential/commercial permits, trades, accessories, solar, pools, etc.
- Arkansas City — Permits are issued by the Neighborhood Services department, often requiring review by a Technical Advisory Committee for commercial projects
Kansas building permit requirements
In Kansas, most construction or renovation work triggers a permit — especially when it involves structural, trade, or safety systems.
Projects that typically require permits:
- New residential or commercial construction
- Additions, remodels, and structural alterations
- Installation or replacement of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems
- Demolition or change in occupancy
- Accessory structures over size thresholds (e.g., sheds over 200 sq ft in Wichita city limits, 400 sq ft in unincorporated Sedgwick County)
- Flood plain development activities, grading, or excavation in flood-prone zones
Minor cosmetic work usually doesn’t need a permit, but always confirm with the local AHJ on the specifics of what is required.
Kansas building permit costs
Permit fees are determined at the local level, either by valuation or tiered structure:
City of Overland Park example:
Additional fees may be required for signage, floodplain, erosion, right of way, and other improvements.
Unique considerations when permitting in Kansas
Exemptions derived from state law
Kansas law prohibits local building code requirements in some scenarios — though enforcement varies. Always verify current applicability with local departments.
Commercial projects may require multi-department reviews
Some cities require sign-offs from zoning, fire, engineering, and technical committees, especially for larger scopes.
Penalties for missing permits
Some jurisdictions impose daily fines (e.g., $25/month up to $200 in Marquette) plus permit cost for performing work without permits.
Digital permitting systems
Cities like Lawrence use EPL for digital submissions, and Johnson County mandates online submission as of 2020.
How to get a building permit in Kansas
- Confirm local jurisdiction
City vs. county determines the permitting process. - Check size thresholds and exemptions
Accessory work may or may not require a permit. - Collect documentation
Application form, site/structural plans, floodplain/erosion permits if needed. - Use online or in-person submittal portals
For example, EPL (Lawrence) or MyGovernmentOnline (Johnson County) - Submit and pay fees
Some jurisdictions require you to pay upon submission, others charge you after the permit is issued. - Undergo plan review
May involve technical, fire, zoning, and building divisions. - Respond to corrections
Responding quickly streamlines the process. - Pay remaining fee and receive permit
Inspectors check for permits displayed onsite. - Schedule inspections
Required at various construction stages.
