Kansas City, MO Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

Under City Code § 18-25, no part of a structure may project onto public property, including right-of-way, unless the building official issues an encroachment permit after review by public works, parks and recreation, and the ADA compliance manager. Permittees must carry $500,000 combined-single-limit (or $100,000/$300,000 split-limit) liability insurance naming the city as additional insured. Section 18-20(o) sets a $147.00 application fee plus an annual license fee of $63.00 plus $0.63 per square foot of encroachment ($0.31/sq ft for aerial or underground encroachments). Small items like decorative cornices, wheel guards, and awnings are exempt from the permit but not from other code limits.