FAQs

Development Guide - Getting Started

• Are there any existing special districts (including Historic Districts or properties listed on the National or State Register of Historic Places) or other restrictions?

  Special Districts carry extra regulations and guidelines. The best way to determine if your property is in the Historic District or listed on the National or State Register of Historic Places is to check the Kansas Historic Resources Inventory. If you discover your project is in a Historic District or is individually listed, there are financial incentives to help you. There are state and federal income tax credits as well as grants that can help.

• Does the current zoning district allow the proposed use?

  You can use the webmap to determine which zoning district the project is in and then use that to determine the appropriate Zoning Regulations.  You can also view the City Zoning map or you can view the zoning information on the Public Web Map as noted above. If the current zoning district does not allow the proposed use, a rezoning must be requested.  See the Rezoning Packet for more information.

• Does the property require a Lot Split or a Plat?

  Lot Split — If the current property is larger than needed a simple lot split can be obtained. This applies if it will result in only two lots and doesn't require additional city services among other things. See the Lot Split Packet for more information.

  Platting — If the property needs to be split into more than 2 lots or is otherwise more complex than what is allowed by a lot split, a plat will be required.  See the Subdivision Packet for more information.

• Does the property require annexation?

  If the property is outside the City Limits and needs city services, it needs to be annexed into the City.  See the Annexation Application for more information.

• I cannot meet the full requirements of the Zoning Regulations, what can I do?

  If the property is unable to comply with the zoning or subdivision regulations, a variance can be requested. Certain conditions must be met for a variance to be granted. The Board of Zoning Appeals hears variance cases. See the Variance Packet for more information.

• Is the project in a floodplain?

  Floodplain maps are available for viewing the Neighborhood Services office and the flood plain layers can also be viewed in the City’s Interactive Webmap.  FEMA also has a portal where you find floodplain maps called the Map Service Center.The 1 percent annual chance flood zone (also known as the 100-year floodplain) is included on the Zoning Map as the Floodplain Management Overlay District (FP-O).  The City has adopted a floodplain management ordinance by reference in Article 28 of the Zoning Regulations. If you determine the project is within the floodplain, an elevation certificate may be required from a licensed surveyor who can also assist with any additional floodplain permits that may be required.  For more information on the Floodplains please visit the Floodplain Information page.

• What if I disagree with the Zoning Administrators findings?

  If you feel the Zoning Administrator has misinterpreted the regulations, you can file an appeal before the Board of Zoning Appeals. See the Appeal Packet for more information.