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Kansas City Building & Trade Permit Guide
Britain Jacobson
Last updated:
Jul 18, 2025
Pouring a slab in the Crossroads Arts District or rehabbing a Brookside bungalow? City Hall has to green-light every nail you drive. Without the proper Kansas City building permit, you’re courting stop-work orders, fines, and blown timelines.
This guide is your shortcut through the process of pulling a building permit in Kansas City, Missouri. We’ll walk you through which projects trigger review, how to navigate Compass KC, what fees to expect, and the prep work that keeps inspectors (and schedules) happy.
Simplify permitting in Kansas City with PermitFlow. Learn more.
What requires a building permit in Kansas City?
In general, expect to obtain a permit for:
- Large accessory structures: Detached sheds, garages, carports, and similar uses over 200 sq ft; A board of zoning adjustment variance is also required
- Structural roofing work: Replacing decking/Decking >32 sq ft, trusses, rafters, or structural repairs to roofs
- New buildings, additions, and enlargements
- Porches, platforms, decks above 30 in or over basements/Stories below
- Retaining walls supporting surcharge or over 4 ft high or adjacent to public right-of-way
- Water tanks over 5,000 gallons or with height-to-width ratio >2:1
- Permanent awnings and similar structures not meeting exemption specs
If you’re not sure what qualifies, start with a Kansas City, MO building permits search through the Compass KC permits portal or call the Kansas City Planning & Development Department - Permits Division.
What doesn’t require a building permit in Kansas City?
Some projects don't require a Kansas City building permit. They include:
- Small accessory structures: Detached sheds, playhouses, or garages up to 200 sq ft
- Retaining walls <4 ft high above grade, unless retaining flammable liquids or adjacent to public right‑of-way
- Fences of any height (Regulated by chapter 27 fences & walls)
- Decks & platforms <30 in above grade and not over basements/Stories below
- Temporary sets: Stage sets, movie or theater scenery
- Window awnings <54 in projection on R-3 and U occupancies
- Prefab pools <24 in deep, <5,000 gallons, and fully above grade
- Reroofing of 1–2 family homes with light roof covering, excluding structural/Deck work
- Movable counters/Partitions not exceeding 5 ft 9 in in height
Here is a complete list of projects that don’t require a permit.
Who issues building permits in Kansas City?
Building permits are issued by the City Planning & Development Department.
This department is responsible for:
- Reviewing applications
- Ensuring compliance with zoning and safety regulations
- Issuing the necessary permits for construction projects
How long does it take to get a building permit in Kansas City?
Timelines for permit approval vary by project size and scope. If you’re building something large that impacts other buildings in the area, expect to wait a few weeks, if not months, before getting your permit. Small projects, on the other hand, are usually approved within days or a couple weeks.
There’s no guaranteed timeline for permit approval, however you can prevent delays by submitting a complete and accurate application.
Pro tip: Using permit management software like PermitFlow can also help you avoid delays and get your permit faster! Learn more.
Kansas City building permit costs
Kansas City construction permit costs depend on the value of your project. The city calculates most fees based on your project's total construction value, though some permits have flat rates.
To get a more accurate estimate of what to expect in permitting fees, use Compass KC’s permit fee calculator.
Pro tip: Have extra money set aside for unforeseen permitting expenses. Additional fees may apply for plan reviews, inspections, or expedited services.
Fees for one- and two-family detached dwellings:
| Total valuation |
Fee |
| $0 - $1,000 |
$52 |
| $1,001 - $2,000 |
$58 |
| $2,001 - $100,000 |
$58 for the first $2,000, $4.33 for each additional $1,000 |
| $100,001 and over |
$483 for the first $100,000, $1.41 for each additional $1,000 |
Fees for all other structures:
| Total valuation |
Fee |
| $0 - $500 |
$52 |
| $501 - $2,000 |
$93 |
| $2,001 - $200,000 |
$93 for the first $2,000, $14 for each additional $1,000 |
| $200,001 - $1,000,000 |
$2,774 for the first $200,000, $9 for each additional $1,000 |
| $1,000,001 and over |
$9,965 for the first $1,000,000, $3.90 for each additional $1,000 |
To estimate your own project value, use the City Planning & Development Fee Estimation Calculator page.
Kansas City trade permits
For contractors performing single-scope work, such as plumbing or roofing, here’s what you need to know:
Plumbing permits
Plumbing permits are required for new construction, repiping, backflow devices, sewer taps, and water heater installations. A licensed and city-registered plumber must apply.
Kansas City plumbing permit fees follow the valuation-based fees in the tables above.
Electrical permits
Required for service changes, panel replacements, generators, EV chargers, and wiring additions. Electrical contractors must be registered and follow NEC and local code.
Kansas City electrical permit fees follow the valuation-based fees in the tables above.
HVAC permits
Permits are required for heating and cooling system installation, ductwork, furnace or condenser replacements, and ventilation systems.
Kansas City HVAC permit fees follow the valuation-based fees in the tables above.
Take the stress out of permitting with PermitFlow.
Our software streamlines every step of the permitting process. Learn more.
Kansas City building permit application process
Step 1: Prepare required documents
Reference this list of documents required for a building permit in Kansas City.
It includes paperwork such as:
- Site plans including locations, image scales, bordering properties, dimensions, and more
- Landscape plans showing grades, soil materials, calculations for water absorbency, and more
- Utility plans to show where utilities will connect, where pipes and wires will run, type and amount of materials needed, and more
- Photometric plans that describe the lighting to be completed by the project
- Licensing and insurance information for any contractors involved in the project
- Owner consent forms to ensure you have permission to work on the project
- Environmental statements such as a stormwater study, stream buffer plan, and any other impact studies
- Project valuation for accurate KCMO permit fees
This is not an exhaustive list. Each kind of project has its own requirements, aimed at ensuring that builders effectively plan for all aspects of the work they want to do.
Step 2: Submit the application
Depending on your location, submit your Kansas City building permit application online through:
You’ll need to upload your documents, select your permit type, and pay initial fees. Applications are tracked through your login dashboard.
Step 3: Plan review
City reviewers will evaluate:
- Code compliance
- Zoning restrictions
- Fire safety
- Floodplain, ADA, or historical overlays (if applicable)
Expect revision requests for incomplete or non-compliant submittals. Use the Compass KC permits portal to monitor progress and respond to plan review comments.
Step 4: Pay fees
Once approved, your total fees will be assessed. Payments are accepted online or in person, depending on the department.
Step 5: Schedule inspections
Throughout the project, you will need to schedule inspections and possibly obtain further permits. These applications will also have their own requirements.
Contact the Kansas City Planning and Development Department
Representatives are available to answer questions on a walk-in basis from Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
You can contact the City Planning and Development Department a few different ways:
- In person: 414 E. 12th St., City Hall 5th Floor, Kansas City, MO 64106
- By phone: (816) 513-1500
- By email: cdpermits@kcmo.org
You can also register with CompassKC to get started on your application process. There you’ll find different permit applications and instructions pertinent to your project.
Additional useful resources
Pull Kansas City permits faster with PermitFlow
Getting a building permit in Kansas City isn’t easy. It requires lots of time, organization, and patience. But with PermitFlow, you have a team of experts in your corner to keep your project on track.
PermitFlow makes permitting easier by guiding you through the application process and handling the groundwork of dealing with the City Planning and Development Department.
Using PermitFlow gives you access to:
- Step-by-step application guidance to ensure you include all necessary documentation
- Streamlined communication tools to easily communicate with local officials and track your permit status in real-time
- Automatic updates so you are notified of any status changes or requirements for your permit
- Centralized document management so all your project documents are stored in one place
Want to learn how PermitFlow can streamline your next project? Speak with one of our permitting pros today.
Pouring a slab in the Crossroads Arts District or rehabbing a Brookside bungalow? City Hall has to green-light every nail you drive. Without the proper Kansas City building permit, you’re courting stop-work orders, fines, and blown timelines.
This guide is your shortcut through the process of pulling a building permit in Kansas City, Missouri. We’ll walk you through which projects trigger review, how to navigate Compass KC, what fees to expect, and the prep work that keeps inspectors (and schedules) happy.
Simplify permitting in Kansas City with PermitFlow. Learn more.
What requires a building permit in Kansas City?
In general, expect to obtain a permit for:
- Large accessory structures: Detached sheds, garages, carports, and similar uses over 200 sq ft; A board of zoning adjustment variance is also required
- Structural roofing work: Replacing decking/Decking >32 sq ft, trusses, rafters, or structural repairs to roofs
- New buildings, additions, and enlargements
- Porches, platforms, decks above 30 in or over basements/Stories below
- Retaining walls supporting surcharge or over 4 ft high or adjacent to public right-of-way
- Water tanks over 5,000 gallons or with height-to-width ratio >2:1
- Permanent awnings and similar structures not meeting exemption specs
If you’re not sure what qualifies, start with a Kansas City, MO building permits search through the Compass KC permits portal or call the Kansas City Planning & Development Department - Permits Division.
What doesn’t require a building permit in Kansas City?
Some projects don't require a Kansas City building permit. They include:
- Small accessory structures: Detached sheds, playhouses, or garages up to 200 sq ft
- Retaining walls <4 ft high above grade, unless retaining flammable liquids or adjacent to public right‑of-way
- Fences of any height (Regulated by chapter 27 fences & walls)
- Decks & platforms <30 in above grade and not over basements/Stories below
- Temporary sets: Stage sets, movie or theater scenery
- Window awnings <54 in projection on R-3 and U occupancies
- Prefab pools <24 in deep, <5,000 gallons, and fully above grade
- Reroofing of 1–2 family homes with light roof covering, excluding structural/Deck work
- Movable counters/Partitions not exceeding 5 ft 9 in in height
Here is a complete list of projects that don’t require a permit.
Who issues building permits in Kansas City?
Building permits are issued by the City Planning & Development Department.
This department is responsible for:
- Reviewing applications
- Ensuring compliance with zoning and safety regulations
- Issuing the necessary permits for construction projects
How long does it take to get a building permit in Kansas City?
Timelines for permit approval vary by project size and scope. If you’re building something large that impacts other buildings in the area, expect to wait a few weeks, if not months, before getting your permit. Small projects, on the other hand, are usually approved within days or a couple weeks.
There’s no guaranteed timeline for permit approval, however you can prevent delays by submitting a complete and accurate application.
Pro tip: Using permit management software like PermitFlow can also help you avoid delays and get your permit faster! Learn more.
Kansas City building permit costs
Kansas City construction permit costs depend on the value of your project. The city calculates most fees based on your project's total construction value, though some permits have flat rates.
To get a more accurate estimate of what to expect in permitting fees, use Compass KC’s permit fee calculator.
Pro tip: Have extra money set aside for unforeseen permitting expenses. Additional fees may apply for plan reviews, inspections, or expedited services.
Fees for one- and two-family detached dwellings:
| Total valuation |
Fee |
| $0 - $1,000 |
$52 |
| $1,001 - $2,000 |
$58 |
| $2,001 - $100,000 |
$58 for the first $2,000, $4.33 for each additional $1,000 |
| $100,001 and over |
$483 for the first $100,000, $1.41 for each additional $1,000 |
Fees for all other structures:
| Total valuation |
Fee |
| $0 - $500 |
$52 |
| $501 - $2,000 |
$93 |
| $2,001 - $200,000 |
$93 for the first $2,000, $14 for each additional $1,000 |
| $200,001 - $1,000,000 |
$2,774 for the first $200,000, $9 for each additional $1,000 |
| $1,000,001 and over |
$9,965 for the first $1,000,000, $3.90 for each additional $1,000 |
To estimate your own project value, use the City Planning & Development Fee Estimation Calculator page.
Kansas City trade permits
For contractors performing single-scope work, such as plumbing or roofing, here’s what you need to know:
Plumbing permits
Plumbing permits are required for new construction, repiping, backflow devices, sewer taps, and water heater installations. A licensed and city-registered plumber must apply.
Kansas City plumbing permit fees follow the valuation-based fees in the tables above.
Electrical permits
Required for service changes, panel replacements, generators, EV chargers, and wiring additions. Electrical contractors must be registered and follow NEC and local code.
Kansas City electrical permit fees follow the valuation-based fees in the tables above.
HVAC permits
Permits are required for heating and cooling system installation, ductwork, furnace or condenser replacements, and ventilation systems.
Kansas City HVAC permit fees follow the valuation-based fees in the tables above.
Take the stress out of permitting with PermitFlow.
Our software streamlines every step of the permitting process. Learn more.
Kansas City building permit application process
Step 1: Prepare required documents
Reference this list of documents required for a building permit in Kansas City.
It includes paperwork such as:
- Site plans including locations, image scales, bordering properties, dimensions, and more
- Landscape plans showing grades, soil materials, calculations for water absorbency, and more
- Utility plans to show where utilities will connect, where pipes and wires will run, type and amount of materials needed, and more
- Photometric plans that describe the lighting to be completed by the project
- Licensing and insurance information for any contractors involved in the project
- Owner consent forms to ensure you have permission to work on the project
- Environmental statements such as a stormwater study, stream buffer plan, and any other impact studies
- Project valuation for accurate KCMO permit fees
This is not an exhaustive list. Each kind of project has its own requirements, aimed at ensuring that builders effectively plan for all aspects of the work they want to do.
Step 2: Submit the application
Depending on your location, submit your Kansas City building permit application online through:
You’ll need to upload your documents, select your permit type, and pay initial fees. Applications are tracked through your login dashboard.
Step 3: Plan review
City reviewers will evaluate:
- Code compliance
- Zoning restrictions
- Fire safety
- Floodplain, ADA, or historical overlays (if applicable)
Expect revision requests for incomplete or non-compliant submittals. Use the Compass KC permits portal to monitor progress and respond to plan review comments.
Step 4: Pay fees
Once approved, your total fees will be assessed. Payments are accepted online or in person, depending on the department.
Step 5: Schedule inspections
Throughout the project, you will need to schedule inspections and possibly obtain further permits. These applications will also have their own requirements.
Contact the Kansas City Planning and Development Department
Representatives are available to answer questions on a walk-in basis from Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
You can contact the City Planning and Development Department a few different ways:
- In person: 414 E. 12th St., City Hall 5th Floor, Kansas City, MO 64106
- By phone: (816) 513-1500
- By email: cdpermits@kcmo.org
You can also register with CompassKC to get started on your application process. There you’ll find different permit applications and instructions pertinent to your project.
Additional useful resources
Pull Kansas City permits faster with PermitFlow
Getting a building permit in Kansas City isn’t easy. It requires lots of time, organization, and patience. But with PermitFlow, you have a team of experts in your corner to keep your project on track.
PermitFlow makes permitting easier by guiding you through the application process and handling the groundwork of dealing with the City Planning and Development Department.
Using PermitFlow gives you access to:
- Step-by-step application guidance to ensure you include all necessary documentation
- Streamlined communication tools to easily communicate with local officials and track your permit status in real-time
- Automatic updates so you are notified of any status changes or requirements for your permit
- Centralized document management so all your project documents are stored in one place
Want to learn how PermitFlow can streamline your next project? Speak with one of our permitting pros today.
