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1. What requires a permit?

• Water Heater & HVAC Replacements
• Remodels, Additions & Basement Finishes
• Sidewalk Replacement along the street and ROW
• Detached Accessory Structures over 120 sq. ft.
• Decks, Patio Covers & Pergolas
• Lawn Irrigation Systems
• Egress Window Installation
• Foundation Repair
• Permanent & Temporary Swimming Pools
• Roof Replacement
• Electrical Service Change Out
• Any New Gas Line
• Any New Sewer Line
• Demolition of Existing Structures
• New Residential & Multi Family Homes
• New Manufactured Homes
• Solar Arrays   

2. What does not require a permit?

• Fences – Max height is 6 ft.
• Detached Accessory Structures under 120 sq. ft.
• Carpet & Tile work
• Cabinets & Trim work
• Plumbing Fixture Replacement
• Windows
• Siding
• Concrete/Flatwork on Private Property

3. I am the homeowner, can I do the work myself?

• If you are the owner and the property is your primary residence, yes you can do the work yourself. If not then licensed contractors will be required.

4. I own a rental, can I do the work myself?

• If a permit is required, a Licensed Contractor may be required to perform the work.

5. How can I apply for a permit?

• Permits are available online at haysusa.com or in our office located at 1002 Vine St.

6. How long does it take to get a building permit?

• For permits not requiring a plan review typical turn around time is 1-2 business days.
• Residential permits that require plan review - up to 7 days
• Commercial Permits that require a plan review – up to 14 days

7. How do I pay my permit fees?

• Permit fees can be paid online with a debit or credit card or in person at 1002 Vine St with cash, check, debit or credit card.

8. What inspections are required for my permit/project?

• Required inspections vary from project to project. Please call 785-628-7310 for more info for your specific project.

9. What is needed to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy?

• All final building and stormwater inspections must pass and be approved. A blower door test from Midwest Energy and a Termite Treatment Certificate is also required. For more info please contact 785-628-7310.

10. How do I get ahold of an inspector?

• All inspectors can be reached at 785-628-7310.

11. What is the Neighborhood Revitalization Program and does my project qualify?

• The Neighborhood Revitalization Program provides a tax rebate on qualified improvements to residential and commercial properties in the designated areas of Hays. The program is designed to provide an incentive for residents to redevelop and revitalize their property. The property must be located within the designated boundary and the project must meet a minimum investment of $25,000 for residential and $50,000 for commercial. For more info please call 785-628-7310.

12. What is the Sidewalk Replacement Program and does my project qualify?

• The Sidewalk Replacement Program allows property owners to make needed sidewalk improvements and request reimbursement for the City for the cost of concrete to help relieve the cost burden. A fixed rate for the cost for concrete per square foot will be set by the Public Works Department on January 1, of each year. The sidewalk must be inspected by a City of Hays Inspector prior to the sidewalk removal and it must be deemed eligible for the program. For more information please call 785-628-7310.

13. How do I know where my property lines are located?

• The City of Hays does not locate property pins. You as the homeowner will need to locate your property pins or hire a licensed land surveyor for assistance.

14. What are the setbacks of a residential accessory structure larger than 120 Sq. Ft ?

• Behind the principles structure
• 5 ft. from the Side Yard
• 5 ft. from the Rear yard.
• 5 ft. from other structures

15. What are the setbacks of a residential accessory structure smaller than 120 Sq. Ft ?

• Behind the principles structure
• 5 ft. from the Side Yard
• 0 ft. from the Rear yard.
• 5 ft. from other structures