Building & Engineering Permits

To build or construct new projects or to remodel existing buildings in Lenexa, you will follow our general building and construction process outline below. Please note:

  • This is a general outline of our process, and your project may require special applications or permits.

  • Your project may not require all steps outlined in this process.

  • All projects must meet our building codes.

If you have any questions, please call our Customer Service at 913.477.7500.

1. Planning approval

During the planning approval stage, our staff will work with you to determine if the property is zoned appropriately for your proposed development and if you need a special-use permit.

During planning approval, you will also provide us with concept, preliminary and final plans, which may require approval from the Planning Commission and Lenexa City Council.

The following types of projects are examples of those that require planning approval:

  • New commercial, commercial additions or apartment construction

  • New residential subdivisions

  • Any project that changes the use or zoning of land or an existing building

  • Any commercial project that affects other properties, including exterior changes

Remodeling/addition projects on single-family dwellings and duplexes do not need planning approval. 

2. Engineering Permits

If your project includes new construction or additions, you may want to begin preliminary site work before you receive your building permit. You will need to apply for certain engineering permits. This only applies to commercial projects. It does not apply to projects on single family dwellings or duplexes.

3a. Commercial Building Permits

Both new construction projects and remodeling/tenant finish projects require a commercial building permit. We will review your project’s specific plans during this step to ensure they meet our building codes and ADA guidelines, among other requirements.

You can submit your commercial building permit application online or in-person at Lenexa City Hall.

3b. Residential Building Permits

  • Additions/remodeling: Many common home remodeling projects require building permits to ensure they are done safely and meet building code requirements. This includes fences, decks, air conditioner and furnace installations, among others.

  • New construction: All new homes being built must have a residential building permit.

After you submit your application, we will review your project’s specific plans to ensure they meet our building codes and other requirements.

You can submit residential building permit applications online or in-person at Lenexa City Hall.

4. Inspections

We require periodic inspections of all construction projects – commercial and residential. Having an inspection keeps your building permit active and helps us ensure that your project is being built safely and according to our building codes.

You can schedule inspections online or in-person at Lenexa City Hall. Most inspections require at least one working days’ notice.

5. Certificates of Occupancy

All buildings in Lenexa require a certificate of occupancy. The timing of when you apply for your certificate of occupancy may vary:

  • New commercial and residential construction: At the same time you submit your building permit.

  • New business in an existing commercial building: At the same time you are applying for your business license.

This section does not apply to remodeling projects for single-family dwellings or duplexes.

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