Building permits are required by the municipal code, chapter 15.04.030.

15.04.030 Acts requiring a permit. No person, firm or corporation shall design, construct, erect, remodel, alter, demolish, locate, relocate or remove any building or structure, or place or install service equipment therein, in the city, except in accordance with ordinances of the city relating to such buildings or structures and with a permit authorizing the same. (Amended during 1977 codification pursuant to K.S.A. 12-3015: Rev. Ord. C19 para. 6, 1956).

The building permit application must be submitted, with a description, and approved prior to commencing construction, chapter 15.04.040.

15.04.040 Construction or improvements Permit Application procedure.

A. Before any person, including the contractor, commences to erect, construct or make improvements upon any building or structure within this city, he or she shall present to the city clerk his or her written request, signed by the applicant or contractor, for a permit to erect or construct such building or structure, or to improve an existing building or structure. The application shall contain a description of the proposed building or proposed improvements, and shall set forth the dimensions and materials to be used in the construction.

There is a penalty for building without a permit, chapter 15.04.060.

Reference Ch. 1.08.010, by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars or by imprisonment not to exceed thirty days, or by both such fine and imprisonment.

There are very good reasons for requiring a building permit. Having a review of each proposed construction project helps ensure the project is built safely according to code and in compliance with zoning ordinances. This process helps protect the current and future homeowner, tenants and future property owners. It reduces liability and protects against loss of monetary funds.

The city provides a service to the residents by performing a review of each project.

The permit process provides a benefit to property owners to ensure that construction is done according to codes that are designed to provide safety and security.

The city code enforcement officer reviews each building permit to make sure construction meets requirements of the 1991 Uniform Building Code adopted by the City. The planned construction is also reviewed against current zoning regulations to ensure uniformity.

There is an appeal process if the planned project does not meet current zoning requirements. The board of zoning appeals meets to consider variances to the code. Utilizing the formal appeal process provides extra security that everyone is given due consideration according to standard guidelines and are less subject to favoritism.

The appeal process does require additional time and should be planned for in construction. Without standard zoning requirements and a uniform building code construction would not always meet the current standards for safety. The uniform building code is founded on broadbased performance principles that make possible the use of new materials and new construction systems. Adhering to the standards protects current and future owners of the property.

Plans for public facilities must be certified by a licensed architect or engineer. There is some latitude on the type of construction that requires a permit. If in doubt, call the code enforcement officer, 742-7168, for clarification.