Building and Development Permits
The City of Richmond Community Development Department is responsible for all aspects of permits and inspections related to the various building codes in effect. All permits issued thereafter, shall follow the requirements in the following codes:
- 2021 International Building Code
- 2021 International Residential Code
- 2020 National Electrical Code
- 2021 International Plumbing Code
- 2021 International Mechanical Code
- 2021 International Fuel Gas Code
- 2021 International Existing Building Code
All codes are available for review along with the amendments and changes at the office of the City Clerk, Community Development Office or the Ray County Library.
Inspections are performed during regular business from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A minimum of twenty four (24) hours’ notice is required for any inspections except upon emergency. Please Contact Lisa Hastings, Community Development Director at 816-776-5304 Ext 112 or Email.
New construction, additions to existing homes, and basement finishing projects on residential property, as well as new construction additions and tenant finishes for Commercial property require permits. Permits are also required for most other types of construction, including fences over 6’, decks, pools, outbuildings, as well as for any electrical, mechanical or plumbing work, including new lawn irrigation systems. Prior to commencing any such work, you should verify whether a permit is required first.
Do You Need a Building Permit?
Permits are not required for common types of home repair, such as:
- Siding
- Painting
- Sheetrock
- Above-ground pools under 24 inches
- Retaining walls under 4 feet
- Sidewalks, driveways, platforms less than 30 inches above grade
- Fences less than 6 feet
- Other cosmetic alterations and minor interior or exterior repairs
Permits are required for:
- An addition
- Garage
- Deck 30 inches above grade, at any point
- Roofing
- Electrical and plumbing work
- Accessory buildings over 200 sq. ft.
- In-ground pools and above ground pools over 24 inches
- Changing or installing a furnace or water heater, etc.
Permit fees are calculated based on the total estimated cost of construction. The estimated cost shall be included on the building permit application.
Permit Fees for new residential dwellings are based on the square foot.
Information required for a residential building permit:
- Site Plan drawn by a Registered Surveyor (New Dwelling)
- Complete Building plans
- Contractors doing the work
- The property owner
Commercial Building Permits also require engineered plans and a site plan by a registered land surveyor in addition to the previous items.
Permits are required simply to ensure your safety and to make sure there are no life safety hazards endangering you and your family, as well as the public.
If you are unsure as to whether or not you need a permit for your project, contact:
Community Development Director
Lisa Hastings
Email
816-776-5304 x112
Fax: 816-776-8216
Between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday