Starting a home improvement project?

Starting a home improvement project?
Posted on 04/22/2022

Each May, we celebrate Building Safety Month. Getting a building permit is one of the best ways you can keep yourself, others and your property safe during and after a project.

When do I need to get a building permit?

City ordinance requires a building permit for most remodeling or construction projects at your home that relate to framing, electrical, mechanical or plumbing work. This includes:

  • Accessory structures (like sheds) over 120 square feet
  • Additions
  • Basement finishes
  • Covered porches and sunrooms
  • Decks – new or replacement
  • Demolition
  • Driveway approach and public sidewalk
  • Electric service upgrades and adding circuits
  • Fences
  • Retaining walls
  • Fire repairs
  • Furnace and air conditioner replacements
  • Mechanical or plumbing alterations
  • Re-roofing
  • Remodeling
  • Swimming pools, hot tubs and spas
  • Water heater replacement

When don’t I need a permit?

Permits are not needed for cosmetic changes, like painting, cabinetry, carpeting, siding, lawn sprinklers and landscaping improvements.

How do I apply?

Applying for a building permit is easy at Lenexa.com/Permits. Before you apply, make sure you have basic information ready like a description of the project and the materials you plan to use.

Some projects, like decks, fences, sheds, additions, and swimming pools, require submission of a plot plan with your application showing an outline of the project drawn to scale. For decks, swimming pools, and residential additions, construction drawings are needed, too.

At Lenexa.com/Remodeling, you’ll find resources to help you with your project, like project-specific guides and information about inspections.

Visit us at the Farmers Market

Are you considering doing any remodeling or construction at your home? Chat with the staff who inspect projects and review permits at two upcoming Lenexa Farmers Market days. Our Building Services staff will host a booth at the Market from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, May 14, and Saturday, May, 21. Not only can you get expert advice about projects and building safety, you can also enter to win a Toro 14-inch 110-volt electric edger/trimmer, donated by Westlake Ace Hardware.

About Building Safety Month

Building Safety Month is an international campaign that takes place in May to raise awareness about building safety. Mayor Mike Boehm proclaimed the month of May 2022 to be Building Safety Month in the City of Lenexa at the April 19 City Council meeting.

Each week of Building Safety Month focuses on a theme: Energy and Innovation, Building Safety Careers, Disaster Preparedness, and Water Safety. Find tips for each weekly theme at BuildingSafetyMonth.org.


Published April 22, 2022