Planning a home improvement or a project at your business? Many construction and remodeling projects require a building permit, but some smaller projects are exempt. Use this guide to check whether your project may qualify.

Not sure? Ask before you start.

Call the Codes Support Representative at 816-220-4565. Have your property address and a brief description of the work ready. Staff can help you determine whether you need a permit or another approval.

Projects that may not need a building permit

Your project must meet all of the conditions listed for the exemption to apply. If it does not clearly fit, contact Codes Administration before beginning work.

Around your home or property

  • Sheds and playhouses: A one-story, detached tool shed, storage shed, playhouse, or similar accessory building with a projected floor area of 250 square feet or less.
  • Low decks, platforms, and walks: No more than 30 inches above the ground, with no overhead structure and no basement or story underneath.
  • Retaining walls: No more than 4 feet high, measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall. This exemption does not apply if the wall supports an additional load (a surcharge) or holds back Class I, II, or IIIA liquids.
  • Painting and wallpaper: Painting, wallpapering, and similar finish work.
  • Shallow prefabricated pools: Less than 24 inches deep and accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy. Contact Codes Administration if you are unsure whether that classification applies to your property.

Signs, awnings, and other work

  • Monument signs: Less than 6 feet high, with no wiring for a power supply.
  • Projecting signs over a public walkway: Less than 2.5 square feet.
  • Window awnings: Supported by an exterior wall of a Group R, Division 3, or Group U occupancy and projecting no more than 54 inches. Ask Codes Administration to confirm whether your building qualifies.
  • Movable cases, counters, and partitions: No more than 5 feet, 9 inches high.
  • Temporary stage sets and scenery: For motion pictures, television, and theater.

Other requirements still apply

A building permit exemption does not waive other codes, regulations, or required approvals.

  • Check where you can build. Required distances from property lines (setbacks), easements, limits on how much of your lot can be covered, and other zoning rules may affect your project. Use GIS & Mapping to find property information.
  • Check before changing a commercial space. A new use or occupancy may require review and approval even when construction is minor.
  • See Change of Occupancy or Use.
  • Ask if your project is not listed. Call 816-220-4565 before you start so staff can confirm the requirements.

Need to apply for a permit?

Visit the Permit Application Center for applications and submission instructions.

This guide summarizes building permit exemptions under the 2024 International Building Code and International Residential Code, as adopted by the City of Blue Springs.