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1. Do I need 40 acres to build a house?

No. As long as the parcel on which you wish to build was created in compliance with the Zoning and Subdivision Regulations, you may be issued a building permit for a residential structure.

2. What are the required setbacks for my property?

The required setbacks from right of way or property lines vary by zoning district. To determine these requirements, you should contact the Planning and Zoning Department at (785) 403-0000 ext. 3.

3. Do I need a building permit to construct a fence?

Generally fences are exempt from zoning regulations and, therefore, do not require a permit for construction. The only possible exception to this rule would be if the fence is in a subdivision. Please check with your subdivision for rules. In addition, to ensure the fence is not in the road right of way, check with the Road Department at (785) 403-0279 or the Kansas Department of Transportation.

4. Where are my property lines? How do I get accurate information?

The only definitive way to determine your property lines is to have your lot or tract surveyed by a licensed land surveyor. They will need to locate or establish the property survey pins at the corners of the lot or tract. If you can locate your own property corner pins, that should allow or help you and the surveyor establish the correct property lines.

5. What should I do if I notice construction and suspect that the owner or builder did not obtain a building permit?

Occasionally the owner or builder is not aware of the building permit requirement and begins construction without a permit. If you want to know whether or not a building permit has been issued for a particular project, please contact the Planning and Zoning Department at (785) 403-0000 ext. 3. Please have specific information regarding the location, such as address, legal description, or owner of property.

6. If I want to make a complaint against someone regarding a possible zoning violation, can I remain anonymous?

Yes. However, it is advantageous to leave your contact information so that staff can respond regarding the violation or to obtain additional information from you. For more on enforcement issues, please contact the Planning and Zoning Department.

7. I received a Notice of Public Hearing in the mail. What does it mean?

Kansas Statute requires that surrounding property owners within 1,000 feet be directly notified whenever a rezoning, variance, or conditional use is requested. In addition, Jefferson County also mails out a notice when a plat is to be reviewed. This notice provides the time, date, and place where the public hearing is being held; the requested change; and where the property is located. You are welcome to attend the public hearing to voice your support or concerns regarding the requested change or to just ask questions about the proposal. You may also call the Planning and Zoning Office at (785) 403-0000 ext. 3 for more information.

8. How do I find the zoning district of my property?

If your property is in the unincorporated area of the county, you may call the Planning and Zoning Department at (785) 403-0000 ext. 3 for zoning information. In order to ensure that we are giving the correct information on the property you are interested in, please provide the property owner, the property's legal description, or the property's address.