Barndominiums are widely accepted across most counties.
Kansas has no mandatory statewide building code. Wichita, Kansas City (KS side), Topeka, and other cities adopt the IBC/IRC locally. Many rural counties have no building code enforcement.
Primary Code
IBC / IRC (locally adopted)
Code Version
Varies by jurisdiction (2012–2018 IBC)
Adoption Level
Local Only
Statewide Enforcement
No
Rural counties may have no permitting process. Cities require standard permits.
Residential
Required
Commercial
Required
Agricultural
Not Required
Size threshold: structures under 200 sq ft may be exempt.
Agricultural buildings on farm property are generally exempt from permits in most Kansas jurisdictions.
Small structures typically exempt where codes are enforced.
Kansas is in Tornado Alley. High wind loads are the primary structural concern. Engineering for tornado-resistance is critical. Moderate snow loads.
Wind Load
105–130 mph
high zone
Snow Load
15–30 psf
Seismic
A–B
Category
Flood
FEMA Regulated
Energy Code
IECC (locally adopted)
Version
Varies
No statewide energy code. Cities adopt locally.
License Type
No state license required
Kansas does not require a state-level contractor license. Some municipalities require local registration.
Front
25–30 ft
Side
5–10 ft
Rear
15–25 ft
Setbacks set by local zoning where it exists.
Frost depth of 30-36 inches. Basements common in eastern Kansas.
Very popular. Minimal permitting in rural areas.
Agricultural exemptions widely available. Steel barns very common.
Widely accepted in rural Kansas. Growing popularity.
Minimal requirements in rural areas.
Full code compliance in cities with adopted codes.
HOAs uncommon outside Kansas City and Wichita suburbs. Rural land is generally unrestricted.
Flood zones along the Kansas, Arkansas, and Missouri rivers.
Key counties with specific permit information for Kansas.
Full IBC enforcement through city/county unified government.
Typical fees: $300 – $2,000
Full code enforcement. Suburban county.
Typical fees: $400 – $2,500
Moderate enforcement. Growing area east of Wichita.
Typical fees: $200 – $1,500
Ag Exemption AvailableModerate enforcement. Rural-friendly.
Typical fees: $150 – $1,000
Ag Exemption AvailableMinimal enforcement in unincorporated areas.
Typical fees: $0 – $500
Ag Exemption AvailableVerify the information above directly from these official sources. Regulations change — always confirm with your local building department before starting construction.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Building codes, permit requirements, and zoning regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local building department, planning office, or a licensed professional before starting construction. Homestead Steel Structures & Design is not a legal authority on building codes or zoning regulations. Last updated February 2026.
