The Code Question Line is provided to respond to inquiries about the City of Kansas City's building and zoning codes. For the fastest response please e-mail your question to codequestions@kcmo.org. You may also phone us at (816) 513-1511.  Please see the answers to frequently asked questions below.

Is an ice and water shield required in Kansas City, Missouri?

YES, per The Kansas City Building and Rehabilitation Code (KCBRC) Article III Table R301.2(1).

I’m installing a new driveway, resurfacing, or expanding an existing driveway.  What do I do?

Vehicle use areas are made up of three (3) parts; a drive approach from the street to the property line, a driveway, and a parking space. The only portion of the driveway that requires permit and inspection is the drive approach in the public right-of- way. The driveway and parking space do not require permit but must be compliant with applicable requirements of the Zoning and Development Code, see Section 88-420-012.

You will need to come to the 5th floor, City Hall, and obtain zoning review and approval, or email a request for review to the Permits Division at cdpermits@kcmo.org. If a drive approach permit is needed, the approved zoning review must be provided to the Public Works Department. The Public Works Department can be reached at (816) 513-2670.

Do I need a permit to replace my roof?

This depends on the scope of the project. Replacing the roofing material, underlayment and no more than 32 square feet of decking does not require permit. If more than 32 square feet of decking is being replaced, then a building permit is required and the contractor must have a current KCMO Business License.

If roof rafters or other structural elements are being repaired and/or replaced, then review of a scope of work or a formal plan submittal is required, and the contractor will be required to have a Residential Contractors license in addition to their KCMO Business License (KCMO Contractor Licensing Requirements).

If I don’t need a permit to do the work, does it need to comply with the building code?

Yes, there is always an expectation of code compliance whether the work performed rises to the level of over site from the City or not. This is typically called best practice and is largely reflective of the experience and quality standards set by the contractor you hire.  Additionally, since the adopted building code sets a minimum standard of work, it frequently defers to manufacturers installation guidelines which often requires a standard that exceeds the building code requirement.

I want to build a garage/carport/shed. Do I need a permit?

Any detached accessory structure less than 200 square feet does not require a permit (see the Building Permit Exempt Work page for more information.  However, while certain types of work done may not require a permit it is still required to meet all applicable Zoning and Development Code requirements (e.g. setbacks, building height, etc.) per Section 88-305-02.

For detached accessories structures greater than 200 square feet in size, a building permit must be obtained. A Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) variance will be required for sheds, storage, pool houses, etc. greater than 200 square feet in size. Plan submittal and review will be required per Information Bulletin IB100 for these structures.

I want to build a room or garage addition on my home. Do I need a permit?

Yes, this will require a full plan submittal, review, and approval prior to permit issuance per Information Bulletin IB100.

I want to put up a fence. Do I need a permit?

Fences are governed per City Ordinance, Chapter 27, Fences and Walls. The fence may not exceed 4 feet in height in the front and street side yard if on a corner lot. It may not exceed 6 feet in height in the interior side and rear yards. No building permit is required. Contact Neighborhoods and Housing at (816) 513-3200 or 311 for guidance and enforcement.

Can I install/repair a septic tank?

The proposed project will require plan submittal and review per Information Bulletin IB105 and compliance with the Zoning and Development Code Section 88-405-05-C. Once plans are approved, a permit can be issued.

Is my project eligible for an Express Review?

See Information Bulletin IB115. You may also discuss eligibility with the Express Plan Reviewer, (816) 513-1500, option 1 and request to speak with the Plans Review Division.

I want to combine lots/split lots, what is the process?

If the parcels are existing platted lots, please contact the County having jurisdiction to combine and/or split lots.

If the parcels are unplatted, made up of several lots and you are interested in split to a different number or configuration, or made up of portions of other lots, please contact the Development Management Division, (816) 513-8801.

Does a Certificate of Occupancy (COO) mean the building is safe to occupy?

A COO will not be issued until the project is completed and structures are allowed to be occupied and/or used. Not all projects that are issued a COO are considered occupiable space, such as a cell tower or roller coaster, or uncovered porches and deck, or pools.

How do we obtain copies of existing Certificates of Occupancy or Occupant Load Certificates?

Certificates of Occupancy (COO) are shown on CompassKC as a CICO and signed copies can be printed and provided as needed.

If a signed copy of a historical COO is needed, please refer to our Records Request page and follow the applicable steps for your request.  A reproduction fee for $36.00 plus staff time costs may be applied. Valid only for existing uses with no changes.

Copies of existing Occupant Load Certificates (OLC) can be obtained for a $36.00 fee. Please contact Permits Division, cdpermits@kcmo.org or (816) 513-1500, for guidance. Valid only for existing uses with no changes.

What are the adopted building codes for the City of Kansas City, Missouri?

Adopted construction codes are established as per Chapter 18 of the City Code of Ordinances, Kansas City Building and Rehabilitation Code Articles II – XIV.

I want to do a single-family home remodel, add or remodel a bathroom, kitchen remodel, or basement finish in my home. What is the process?

Please provide a written scope of work letter with existing and proposed floor plan drawings for the proposed work.  Submit the scope and drawings when you make application for permit on CompassKC for an interior remodel permit. After review and approval, a building permit will be issued.  If you are doing the plumbing, electrical, and/or HVAC work you will also need to submit permit applications for each trade, and a completed Information Bulletin IB146.

Basement finish projects simply require permit application with all work performed as per Information Bulletin IB132.