Frequently Asked Questions

The following section provides links to frequently asked questions for the Department of Planning & Development. If you have a question that is not answered by this list, please call 816.439.4530. 

  1. Do contractors need a license to apply for permits?
  2. When does the city require a building permit or inspection?
  3. How do I obtain a building permit?
  4. How are the permit fees calculated?
  5. When should I request an inspection?
  6. How do I request a building inspection?
  1. How do I acquire a temporary occupancy permit?
  2. Can I construct a detached storage building or garage?
  3. Does the city require a building permit for fences?
  4. Do I need a permit for a pool?
  5. Is a permit required to install a lawn irrigation system?
  6. Are there backflow requirements in the City?
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  1. Where do I find information on codes related to nuisance issues?
  2. What is considered outside storage?
  3. May I store my blue trash bins outside?
  4. Where can I park additional vehicles if I need more parking space?
  5. Is a permit required to add another driveway?
  6. What are the rules for parking on private property or car repairs?
  1. Who should I contact about abandoned cars or personal property parked on the city street?
  2. Where can I park an RV on my property?
  3. What is the height restriction on grass and weeds?
  4. With the increase of West Nile virus, should swimming pools be drained?
  5. Do I need a permit to have a garage sale? Where can I display my signs?
  6. What about other types of signs?
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  1. What is the HDRC?
  2. What does it mean to live in a historic district?
  3. Do I need to get a permit to work on my house?
  4. What is a COA and how do I get one?
  5. Does the HDRC tell me what color I can paint my house?
  1. I want to replace my old windows. What will the HDRC allow for replacements?
  2. Will the City make me restore my house to its original appearance?
  3. What if I can’t afford to fix up my home?
  4. I have a plaque on my house; what does it mean?
  5. How can I find out the history of my house?
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  1. How do I find the zoning for my property?
  2. Do I have to get a permit to work on my house?
  3. Can I construct a detached storage building or garage?
  4. Can I conduct a business in my home?
  5. Does the City require a building permit for a fence?
  1. Can I place a temporary sign on my property?
  2. How do I apply for a Temporary Use Permit?
  3. How do I get permission to have a Block Party in my neighborhood?
  4. I live in a residential neighborhood. Can I have chickens in my backyard?
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  1. How do I find out if I belong to a Home Owners' Association?
  2. Is my property located in a historic district?
  1. How do I start a neighborhood watch?
  2. Can my neighborhood have a block party?
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