PurposeThe purpose of building codes division is to protect the safety, health and welfare of the public and preserve property values through the reasonable application of building codes and standards

PurposeThe purpose of building codes division is to protect the safety, health and welfare of the public and preserve property values through the reasonable application of building codes and standards relative to the construction and use of buildings and property.Adopted CodesThe following is a list of the codes that the City of Ottawa has adopted. A copy of these codes and amendments are available to view at the Ottawa Public Library. Should you have any questions concerning these codes please contact the City of Ottawa Community Development Department.International Residential One- and Two-Family Dwelling Code, 2018 EditionInternational Existing Building Code, 2018 EditionInternational Energy Conservation Code, 2018 EditionInternational Fuel Gas Code, 2018 EditionInternational Mechanical Code, 2018 EditionInternational Plumbing Code, 2018 EditionInternational Fire Code, 2018 EditionPrivate Sewage Disposal City OrdinanceInternational Property Maintenance Code, 2018 EditionNational Electrical Code, 2017 EditionView local amendments to the adopted codes.Land DisturbanceA Land Disturbance Permit (LDP) is required for any land disturbance per Ottawa's Municipal Code Chapter 14 Article III. Land disturbance includes any activity that changes the physical conditions of landform, vegetation, and hydrology, creates bare soil, or otherwise may cause erosion or sedimentation. Activities include, but are not limited to: clearing, grading, excavating, removal of vegetation, stripping, grubbing, filling, logging, and storing of materials. Any new development or redevelopment that cumulatively disturbs one acre or more, must also complete a SWP2 plan in accordance with Section 14-108. Please email the Stormwater Coordinator or call 785-229-3632 with your plans before initiating work.The City has provided a guidance document Land Disturbance Permit Worksheet (PDF) to aid in determining whether a LDP is required. If your activities qualify for a Land Disturbance Permit (PDF), please fill out the application and follow the submittal instructions.Construction Board of AppealsThe Construction Board of Appeals is a seven-member group that is appointed by the City Commission and the role of the Board is to hear appeals or requests for changes in the building codes. Meetings are called as needed. In order to seek an appeal contact the Chief Building Official.Contractor LicensingLicensing Ordinance (PDF)Contractors License Application (PDF)Contractors License Renewal 2024 (PDF)Permit ApplicationsBuilding Permit (PDF)Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance Worksheet (PDF)Sign Permit (PDF)For more information on signs view Article 27 of the Zoning RegulationsDemolition (PDF)Permit Fees (PDF)Land Disturbance Permit Application (PDF)Relative LinksNPDES Construction Stormwater Program | KDHE, KSTechnical InformationSite Drawing Example (PDF)Driveway Site Plan Example (PDF)Building Evaluation Form (PDF)