Kansas, Franklin County HVAC Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Franklin County, Kansas HVAC Permit Requirements
Franklin County, Kansas, through its Building Department, is responsible for enforcing building codes and issuing permits for construction and structural installations within the unincorporated areas of the county. This includes HVAC systems.
- Jurisdiction: Franklin County's Building Department handles permits for properties in unincorporated areas. If your property is within an incorporated city, you must contact that city's building department for permit requirements.
- Permit Necessity: Generally, any work that modifies major building systems, affects occupant safety, changes equipment capacity, alters gas or electrical connections, or penetrates the building envelope requires an HVAC permit. This includes installing new HVAC units, replacing older systems, extending ductwork, or adding new zones. Even a 1-for-1 replacement of HVAC equipment typically requires a permit and inspection to ensure compliance with current energy and safety codes.
- Licensing: HVAC contractors and mechanics practicing in unincorporated Franklin County must hold a valid license from a Kansas jurisdiction. The Kansas State Board of Technical Professions (KSBTP) administers HVACR contractor and mechanic licenses. Permit applications often require the submitting contractor's KSBTP license number.
- Application Process: As of February 28, 2024, all permit applications, including those for HVAC work, must be submitted through the Franklin County Online Permit Center. Credit card payments are accepted with a processing fee, while cash and checks are also accepted in the office.
- Required Documentation: While specific HVAC permit application requirements may vary, typical submissions for building permits include a completed application, a plot plan showing the project's location, and potentially two sets of plans and specifications. For HVAC work, this would likely include details of the mechanical system.
- Inspections: HVAC installations typically require inspections to ensure compliance with codes. All inspections must be completed and approved for each phase of construction before proceeding to the next.
- Building Codes: Franklin County has adopted various building codes, including the International Mechanical Code.
Properties in Unincorporated Areas
For properties located in unincorporated areas of Franklin County, the County's Building Department is the primary authority for issuing permits and enforcing building codes. This ensures that construction, including HVAC installations, meets minimum standards for public safety, health, and general welfare.
Key considerations for unincorporated areas include:
- The County Building Department is responsible for inspecting all building construction and structural installations and enforcing building codes.
- Permits are required for any work or construction outside of routine maintenance or minor repair.
- The county utilizes an online portal for permit applications, streamlining the process.