Kansas City Building Permits — Cost, Timeline & Process

Kansas City Planning & Development administers building permits and plan review through the City's current permitting system.

Current Adopted Code Package

Kansas City's official Building and Rehabilitation Code page currently lists the adopted package as including:

• 2018 International Building Code
• 2018 International Existing Building Code
• 2018 International Residential Code
• 2018 International Fuel Gas Code
• 2018 International Mechanical Code
• 2018 Uniform Plumbing Code
• 2017 National Electrical Code
• 2021 International Energy Conservation Code, effective July 1, 2023

with Kansas City amendments.

2024 Code Drafts Are Not Yet the Adopted Code

Kansas City is publishing proposed 2024 code updates for review.

Those draft documents should not be described as the currently adopted building code unless and until the City formally adopts and makes them effective.

That distinction is important for permit applicants.

Compass KC

Use Compass KC for current application, plan-review, fee, and inspection services.

Review Time

This guide does not publish a generic "several weeks" or "same day to one week" service promise. Timing depends on permit type, workload, project complexity, and correction cycles.

Typical Workflow

1. Confirm zoning and project scope.
2. Determine the current adopted building/trade codes.
3. Prepare the required plans.
4. Submit through Compass KC.
5. Complete required plan review.
6. Respond to corrections.
7. Obtain the issued permit.
8. Complete inspections.
9. Obtain final approval/CO where required.

Official Sources

Kansas City Planning & Development

Kansas City Building and Rehabilitation Code

Compass KC

Disclaimer: Verify adopted code editions and effective dates on the City's current code page before filing.