CODE COMPLIANCE & Permits
No statewide residential code in Kansas; local jurisdictions adopt codes as needed.
Here's how to find the correct code:
- Identify the Specific Location: Determine the city or county where the construction is planned.
- Visit the Local Government Website: Go to the official website of that city or county.
- Look for Building Department or Codes Section: Navigate to the "Building Department" or "Codes" section to find the specific code adoption information.
- Check for Local Amendments: Many jurisdictions adopt a base code (like the International Residential Code) and then add their own local amendments. Kansas primarily uses model building codes:
- International Building Code (IBC)
- International Residential Code (IRC)
climate zone
CZ 4 (Climate Zone 4)
- Location: The southwest part of Kansas is in Climate Zone 4.
- Climate: CZ 4B (Mixed-Dry) Characterizes the southwest region of Kansas. CZ4 has less extreme temperature swings and lower precipitation, requiring different energy-saving strategies than the colder, more humid northeast.
CZ 5 (Climate Zone 5)
- Location: The Northeast part of Kansas is Climate Zone 5.
- Climate: CZ 5A (Cold-Humid): Describes the northeast region of Kansas. CZ5 has cooler average temperatures and higher humidity, necessitating stricter insulation and air-sealing measures to control heat loss.
How zones are used
Governing regulations:
The climate zones are used by builders and contractors to determine the insulation requirements for different parts of a home, such as the walls, attic, and foundation.
Building codes:
International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) sets a national standard, Kansas does not have a statewide building code. Local jurisdictions adopt their own versions of the IECC, so you should always check with your local government for the exact requirements in your area.