Overland Park, KS Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit
- Land disturbance permit required
- Exemption ceiling
- Under 1 acre, 3 feet, 50 yards
- Drainage standard
- KC-APWA Section 5600, adopted by reference
- Lot grading slope
- 2.5 percent toward storm sewer
- Building freeboard
- 1 foot above 1% storm gradeline
Summary
A land disturbance permit from Planning and Development Services precedes clearing, grading, filling or excavating. The exemption is narrow: under one acre, fill under three feet and 50 cubic yards, no slope steeper than 3:1, and no drainageway obstructed.
A land disturbance permit shall be obtained from the Director of Planning and Development Services prior to commencement of any of the following: Any activity that changes the physical conditions of landform, vegetation and hydrology, creates bare soil, or otherwise may cause erosion or sedimentation.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: latest section effective 1901-01-01).
Full Breakdown
Applications carry a grading plan, drainage map and erosion and sediment control plan. Storm drainage design follows the city's Design and Construction Standards, which adopt KC-APWA Section 5600 by reference. Lots grade to positive drainage toward the receiving storm sewer, generally 2.5 percent or steeper, with no low points that hold standing water. Storm systems protect buildings in the 1 percent storm, keeping at least one foot of freeboard between the lowest opening and the energy grade line. Site development permits cover pavement, retaining walls and private stormwater facilities. Inside the Special Flood Hazard Area the small-project exemption disappears.
Violations & Fines
Working without a required permit draws a stop work order. The city may correct grading and drainage defects and assess costs against the permit, or as a lien on the parcel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a backyard regrade need a permit?
Who reviews grading and drainage plans?
Can I pipe a creek instead of leaving a swale?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Overland Park
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Erosion Control in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Johnson County handle erosion control.