Building Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build or remodel my residence or other structure?
Yes. Building permits and inspections are required in the unincorporated areas and in most cities in Sedgwick County. Call 660-1840 for information and assistance.
Do I need a permit to install a manufactured home in Sedgwick County?
Yes. A permit and inspection are required. Call 660-1840 for assistance.
Can I move my electric meter so I can build my room addition?
No. Only Sedgwick County licensed electrical contractors can move, alter, enlarge or change the electric service. An electrical permit is also required.
Can I wire my new home?
Yes, upon satisfactory completion of the Sedgwick County electrical homeowner’s test. Call 660-1840 for assistance.
Can I install electrical wiring in my new garage or when finishing my basement?
Yes, if it is done according to the 1999 National Electrical Code. Call 660-1840 for an inspection.
I am going to put a bedroom in the basement. Do I need an escape window?
Yes, the code requires an egress out of every bedroom for your safety.
Can I put a window in the wall separating the house and the attached garage? How about a door with a window?
No. An occupancy separation must be maintained.
How far can an LP tank be from my house, property line, or any building?
10 ft. for a tank of 500 gallons or less
25 ft. for a tank of 501-2000 gallons
50 ft. for a tank over 2000 gallons
Can I install my own fuel gas piping?
No. Only plumbers and LP installers licensed in Sedgwick County may install gas piping.
Do my stairs have to be even?
Yes. Code requires not more that 3/8” total difference in variation from the top to bottom of stairway. Call any of our building inspectors for answers to code questions.
When do I need handrails on my steps?
Handrails are needed when you have 4 or more risers (steps). Guardrails are needed when you are more than 30” off the ground.
How much headroom clearance does the building code require for staircases?
Staircases required 6’ 6” headroom.
Can I do my own plumbing?
If it is a new home, you must first pass the plumbing homeowners test available by calling 660-1840.
If it is repair work, yes.
If it is a room addition, yes, if done by code.
What kind of material can be used for waste lines and vents?
ABS/Schedule 40
PVC/Schedule 40
Cast Iron
Lead, Copper or Brass
How deep does PVC conduit have to be buried at my residence?
A minimum of 18” of dirt needs to be over the pipe.
Do I need a permit to install a culvert?
Yes. Call 660-1840 for a culvert permit.
Can I build a permanent structure in the utility easement?
No, you may not.
As the owner, can I be a general contractor of my own residence?
Yes, once every three years.
A detached residential structure of less than 200 square feet will not require a building permit.
When building a new residence, how many feet can the residence be from the edge of the road before a fire road approval is required?
Call the Sedgwick County Fire Department at 744-0471 for current information.
How do I obtain a road approval?
Apply for a fire road approval at Sedgwick County Code Enforcement and pay a $25.00 fee.
Call the Sedgwick County Fire Department at 744-0471 for an inspection.
Can I have a septic system or a lagoon for my sewer system?
Call 660-1840 and speak with Tim Wagner.
What should I do to make sure a contractor is licensed in Sedgwick County?
Contact Code Enforcement at 660-1840 and ask if contractor is licensed before signing any contract or hiring the contractor.
Do I need a permit to replace my furnace or water heater?
Yes, a permit is required, and an inspection is performed to ensure the safety of the installation.
If installing a furnace or water heater yourself, call 660-1840 for advice, assistance and a permit.
If you are paying someone else to install it, call 660-1840 to make sure he or she is licensed to perform such work in Sedgwick County. After it is installed, make sure your contractor calls us for an inspection.
Do you have questions that are not answered in this section?
Please call us at 660-1840 from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.