Building Permits

When doing a home improvement project, it might be necessary for you to secure a building permit. The permitting process is designed to promote safe building practices that are in accordance with the Zoning Ordinances of the City, ensure that work is done correctly and safely eliminate many problems before they start. Please review the provided list of projects which will require a building permit, but remember that this list is not exhaustive.

Starting a commercial project? Visit the Commercial Permits page to learn about the permitting process and how to get started.

Bel Aire Permit & License Portal

The City of Bel Aire's online portal is a centralized location for applying for permits and business licenses. Designed for convenience and efficiency, the portal enables businesses and individuals to manage their permits and licenses from a single, easy-to-use platform.


Visit belaireks.municipalonlinepayments.com to access the online portal. Please read through our step-by-step guide that will help you set up your account, register for permits or business licenses, and apply for them.


You only need to create an account and submit your registration once. If you have an existing permit within the City, the permit will appear in your account. For new permits, you will need to complete the building permit registration. If you have a current contractor license with the City of Bel Aire, you will only need to complete the business license registration. You will NOT need to apply for a license. If you do not have a current contractor license with the City of Bel Aire, you will need to apply for a license.


If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the Planning and Zoning Department at pzclerk@belaireks.gov or (316) 744-2451 ext. 121.


Effective August 1, 2025, all payments for business licenses and permits made with credit cards will be assessed a 3.75% fee ($2.50 minimum). Other payment options, such as cash or check, will not incur any fees. Additionally, transactions through the online portal will incur a $1.25 processing fee.

 We appreciate your understanding as we work to manage processing costs fairly and transparently.

List of Projects Requiring a Building Permit


  • Adding any type of backup electrical power source
  • Adding a carport
  • Adding a concrete slab, sidewalk, patio, driveway, or approach
  • Adding a daylight window in a basement
  • Adding dirt in large quantities (5 cubic yards), or changing grade
  • Adding new heat ducts/air-conditioning ductwork
  • Adding or dividing rooms
  • Adding or moving plumbing fixtures
  • All decks
  • All fences located in the backyard. (Contact City Hall for type of fencing construction in front or side yards)
  • All new home construction
  • All sheds and playhouses
  • All signs (Must be approved under the City's Zoning Ordinance)
  • Building additions to a house
  • Changing door or window opening sizes
  • Constructing a garage or adding an addition to an existing garage
  • Covering or enclosing a deck, porch, or patio
  • Enlarging garage door openings

  • Finishing an unfinished basement
  • Foundation and Basement Repair
  • Framing, furring of basement walls
  • Installation of swimming pools
  • Installing a fireplace
  • Installing solar panels
  • Installing a sprinkler system, replacement or removal of pressure vacuum breaker
  • Masonry type of fence, fireplace, outside cookers, or structures
  • Re-roofing
  • Re-siding
  • Removing of large quantities of dirt (5 cubic yards), or changing grade
  • Replacing electrical service panels, or adding electrical circuits
  • Replacing or adding furnaces, air conditioners, condensing units
  • Replacing a water heater
  • Replacing water, sewer, or gas lines
  • Tents (120 square feet or larger)
  • Towers (Any type)

Project Approval


In many instances, a licensed contractor will be needed to complete a significant improvement or remodeling project. There are many projects that homeowners can accomplish without a licensed contractor. These projects are still subject to approval of the City Building Inspector, to ensure that homeowners and other citizens are not injured by faulty construction or execution.