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. Do I need a permit to have a garage sale? Where can I display my signs?
  5. What about other types of signs?
  6. Why is that abandoned house allowed to sit vacant and deteriorate?
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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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