Bolthole Index

Riley County, Kansas

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Riley County, Kansas

65Index Score / 100
#5 of 105 in Kansas

Riley County, Kansas requires a building permit for construction, reconstruction, remodeling, relocation, additions and changes of use, with limited exemptions1. Unincorporated Riley County has no adopted county building code, and the county does not inspect construction methods; zoning, septic and driveway requirements still apply234.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for most construction and changes of use in unincorporated Riley County1
Building code
No county code adopted and no construction inspection through the permit program23
Zoning
County zoning applies throughout the unincorporated area; cities administer their own zoning56
Septic permit
Required for new private systems and administered by Riley County Environmental Health78
Residential lot size
District-specific: SF-1, SF-2 and SF-3 have different minimums910
Owner-builder
No general county exemption confirmed; state exemption covers qualifying owner-performed roofing only11

Who to call

Building permits

Riley County Planning & Development (Building Permits)

Building permits, setback verification and building-permit FAQs for unincorporated Riley County

785-537-6332

110 Courthouse Plaza, Manhattan, KS 66502

Zoning

Riley County Planning & Development

Zoning administration, comprehensive planning, rezoning and code/nuisance enforcement for unincorporated Riley County

785-537-6332

110 Courthouse Plaza, 2nd Floor, Rm B212, Manhattan, KS 66502

Septic permits

Riley County Planning & Development / Environmental Health (Septic Permits)

Private wastewater (septic) system permitting, soil profile analysis and inspection for unincorporated Riley County

785-565-6200

110 Courthouse Plaza, Manhattan, KS 66502

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 5, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Riley County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Do you need a building permit in Riley County, Kansas?

Yes. Riley County requires a permit before construction, reconstruction, remodeling, relocation, an addition or a change of use1. A structure smaller than 49 square feet is exempt, as are structures on United States government land and structures owned by Kansas State University or the State of Kansas1. Unincorporated Riley County has not adopted a county building code, but state code review still applies to certain project and occupancy categories212. The county permit checks zoning, setbacks, Sanitary Code compliance and similar basics rather than construction methods133. Municipal building-code rules may differ inside city limits6.

Who is the Riley County building department and how do you reach them?

Riley County Planning & Development handles building permits at 785-537-6332 and 110 Courthouse Plaza in Manhattan14. The county publishes applications for building permits, manufactured homes, site-built, modular and shouse dwellings, floodplain development, private wells, wastewater systems and short-term rentals15. A residential principal structure or residential addition or accessory structure has a $150 building-permit fee; the comparable commercial or industrial fee is $22516. Starting work before issuance doubles the fee, and applying simultaneously for a principal and accessory structure adds $50 above the principal-structure fee1718. Riley County does not inspect construction methods, so arrange appropriate independent construction oversight3.

Does Riley County have zoning?

Riley County zoning regulates land uses throughout the unincorporated county, while incorporated cities administer their own rules56. The county publishes three single-family residential districts, and lot size, setbacks and building height depend on the district101920. The parcel designation matters: SF-1 requires 2 acres, SF-2 requires 10,000 square feet, and SF-3 requires 6,500 square feet unless the Sanitary Code requires otherwise9. The Land Development Regulations also govern subdivisions21. Agricultural uses are exempt from those regulations, but sanitation, floodplain, driveway and state requirements may still apply22.

How do septic permits work in Riley County?

Riley County Planning & Development administers private wastewater systems in the unincorporated county7. A private system cannot be built, repaired, modified or operated without county approval and a permit, and the property owner or licensed installer starts with a profile and site-evaluation application and fee823. A private system within 400 feet of an existing public sewer is allowed only when the county finds connection is not reasonably feasible and the system can meet the Sanitary Code24. Only 1.4% of Riley County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so obtain the site evaluation before assuming a standard field will work25. New, repaired or modified systems require county inspection; standard tanks must be pumped and inspected at least every 5 years, while active alternative systems require annual inspection26.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Riley County?

Riley County zoning applies throughout the unincorporated area, so an RV or tiny-home proposal must fit the parcel's permitted or conditional uses510. Setbacks and height restrictions also depend on the district and structure1920. We could not confirm a specific county rule for year-round RV living, temporary camping, tiny-home occupancy or minimum dwelling floor area; ask Riley County Planning & Development at 785-537-6332 for a written parcel determination14. Manufactured homes have a clearer path: outside a mobile-home park, a manufactured home must sit on a permanent foundation and obtain a building permit27. A recreational vehicle cannot serve as sleeping quarters for an unincorporated-county short-term rental28. Off-grid sanitation is not unrestricted: private systems need approval before use, and a privy served by public or pressurized water requires special county permission29.

Building a home in Riley County, Kansas: the steps, in order

  1. Ask Riley County Planning & Development at 785-537-6332 to identify the parcel's district, allowed use, lot-size standard, setbacks and height restriction1491920.
  2. Resolve subdivision or rezoning needs and obtain a floodplain development permit before building in the floodplain2130.
  3. Confirm driveway access before designing the site; new residential development in unincorporated Riley County must meet county access standards unless it is an agricultural use4.
  4. If public sewer is unavailable, submit the septic profile and site-evaluation application and fee823.
  5. Obtain a county drilling permit before drilling a Type I or Type II private water-supply well31.
  6. Submit the correct building application before starting work, then arrange independent construction oversight because Riley County does not inspect construction methods13.

What to check before you buy land in Riley County, Kansas

Confirm the jurisdiction and zoning district first because Riley County regulates the unincorporated area while incorporated cities administer their own rules6. Resolve subdivision requirements before dividing land, then verify access because new residential development in the unincorporated county must meet driveway standards unless it is an agricultural use214. A floodplain development permit is required before building in the floodplain30. Budget for septic carefully because only 1.4% of Riley County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field25. Also determine whether public sewer lies within 400 feet, and obtain a drilling permit before drilling a Type I or Type II private water-supply well2431. If rental income matters, an unincorporated-county short-term rental needs a county license and cannot use a recreational vehicle as sleeping quarters28.

Watch-outs

  • Unincorporated Riley County has no adopted county building code and does not inspect construction methods through its building-permit program, but state code review still applies to certain project and occupancy categories2312.
  • Starting construction before Riley County issues the building permit doubles the permit fee17.
  • Only 1.4% of Riley County's soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, so obtain the site evaluation before committing to a system design25.

Sources

  1. Building Division, quoted and re-checked
  2. Riley County Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  3. Riley County Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  4. Regulations, Standards & Specifications, quoted and re-checked
  5. Planning Division, quoted and re-checked
  6. Regulations, Standards & Specifications, quoted and re-checked
  7. Riley County Sanitary Code, quoted and re-checked
  8. Riley County Sanitary Code, quoted and re-checked
  9. Planning Division, quoted and re-checked
  10. Planning Division, quoted and re-checked
  11. K.S.A. 50-6,129. Exemptions (Kansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. Kansas Building Energy Codes (Kansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. Do I need a permit to build a structure in the unincorporated area?, quoted and re-checked
  14. Riley County Planning & Development (Building Permits) (rileycountyks.gov)
  15. Applications and Permits, quoted and re-checked
  16. Building Division, quoted and re-checked
  17. Building Division, quoted and re-checked
  18. Building Division, quoted and re-checked
  19. Planning Division, quoted and re-checked
  20. Planning Division, quoted and re-checked
  21. Regulations, Standards & Specifications, quoted and re-checked
  22. Planning Division, quoted and re-checked
  23. Riley County Planning & Development / Environmental Health (Septic Permits) (rileycountyks.gov)
  24. Riley County Sanitary Code, quoted and re-checked
  25. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  26. Riley County Sanitary Code, quoted and re-checked
  27. Building Division, quoted and re-checked
  28. Short-Term Rental Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  29. Riley County Sanitary Code, quoted and re-checked
  30. Floodplain Information, quoted and re-checked
  31. Riley County Sanitary Code, quoted and re-checked

Written October 5, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like 5 of its 6 neighbors, Riley County has countywide zoning.

RuleRiley CountyClay CountyGeary CountyPottawatomie CountyMarshall CountyWashington CountyDickinson County
Building permitRequiredRequiredLimitedRequiredNot requiredNot requiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesNoYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Env. Health Div.County Sanitary CodeCounty SanitarianCounty Env. HealthMarshall CountyCounty Sanitary CodeCounty Env. Services

County locator

Riley County in Kansas

65
County map
Riley County highlighted among the Kansas counties · colored by Index score

How Riley County scores

Seclusion69100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency53100% ev.
Admin Boringness4590% ev.
Durability55100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost70100% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$279kTypical home
1.4%Property tax
$3,371Land / acre
33.4"Annual rain
9.9% of yrsSevere drought
22.3 / yr (+15.6)Mid-century 100°F days
22.7 daysMid-century dry spell
2.07" (+5.2%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.54×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,190Home insurance / yr
2.1% / yrInsurance growth
1.07%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
7,243People within 30 min
769,613People within 2 hr
67,505Radius comparison (15 mi)
117.1People / sq mi
25.4%Federal land
91.5%Land at 15% slope or less
1.4%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
5,424 acWorkable land screen
25.3%Wooded land
36.2 tonsBiomass / forest ac
54.3°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Riley County

Inside a city, town or township here, that government usually sets zoning and may issue its own building permits; the county’s rules above cover land outside them.

Not yet researched: Ashland Township · Bala Township · Center Township · Fancy Creek Township · Grant Township · Jackson Township · Leonardville · Madison Township · Manhattan Township · May Day Township · Ogden · Ogden Township · Randolph · Riley · Sherman Township · Swede Creek Township · Wildcat Township · Zeandale Township

Answers from the rulebook for Riley County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Riley County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, reconstruction, remodeling, relocation, additions, and changes of use of buildings or structures in Riley County.

    • No permit is required for a building or structure less than 49 square feet.
    • No permit is required for a building or structure on land owned by the United States government.
    • No permit is required for a building or structure owned by Kansas State University or the State of Kansas.
    • Driveways, fences, and sidewalks do not require building permits.
    • Manufactured homes outside mobile-home parks require a permanent foundation and a building permit.
    • A separate permit is required for each category; simultaneous principal and accessory structures add $50 above the principal permit fee.
    • If construction begins before permit issuance, the permit fee is doubled.

    small-structure threshold: < 49 square feet (No building permit required below this area.) · residential principal structure fee: 150 USD · commercial/industrial principal structure fee: 225 USD · residential addition/accessory structure fee: 150 USD · commercial/industrial addition/accessory structure fee: 225 USD

    “A building permit is required prior to the start of construction, reconstruction, remodeling, relocation, addition, or change of use of any building or structure in Riley County. A building permit is not required for any building or structure less than 49 square feet in area, any building or structure constructed on land owned by the United States government, nor any building or structure owned by Kansas State University or the State of Kansas.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction, reconstruction, remodeling, relocation, additions, and changes of use in unincorporated Riley County.
      “A building permit is required prior to the start of construction, reconstruction, remodeling, relocation, addition, or change of use of any building or structure in Riley County. A building permit is not required for any building or structure less than 49 square feet in area, any building or structure constructed on land owned by the United States government, nor any building or structure owned by Kansas State University or the State of Kansas.”
    • Required — Construction of any structure in unincorporated Riley County.
      “A building permit is required before the start of construction of any structure within the unincorporated areas of Riley County.”
  • Building code adoptedNot adopted (with conditions)

    County building-code adoption in unincorporated Riley County.

    • Municipal building-code requirements vary by city and must be checked with the individual city.
    “Riley County requires a building permit but has not adopted building codes.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Not adopted — County building-code adoption for unincorporated Riley County.
      “Riley County requires a building permit but has not adopted building codes.”
  • InspectionsNot required (with conditions)

    Construction inspection associated with county building permits in unincorporated Riley County.

    • A building permit is still required.
    • The county inspector checks setbacks and does not examine construction methods.
    “The permit does not involve construction inspection since there is no adopted building code that applies to the unincorporated areas of the County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Not required — Construction inspection under the Riley County building-permit program in unincorporated areas.
      “The permit does not involve construction inspection since there is no adopted building code that applies to the unincorporated areas of the County.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Riley County zoning in unincorporated areas.

    • Agriculture uses are exempt from the Riley County Land Development Regulations.
    • Uses must be permitted or conditionally permitted in the applicable zoning district; rezoning may be required.
    “The zoning regulations for the City regulate all land uses within the city limit boundary (not the MUAPB boundary) and zoning regulations for Riley County regulate all land uses within the unincorporated area of the county.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land-use zoning in unincorporated Riley County.
      “The zoning regulations for the City regulate all land uses within the city limit boundary (not the MUAPB boundary) and zoning regulations for Riley County regulate all land uses within the unincorporated area of the county.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate zoning across Riley County, including county zoning in unincorporated areas and municipal zoning within incorporated cities.

    • The conclusion aggregates subordinate municipal and county rules; the county does not administer each municipal ordinance.
    • The county page states that city zoning regulates land uses within city limits and county zoning regulates land uses in unincorporated areas.
    “The zoning regulations for the City regulate all land uses within the city limit boundary (not the MUAPB boundary) and zoning regulations for Riley County regulate all land uses within the unincorporated area of the county.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate conclusion for incorporated municipalities and unincorporated portions of Riley County; municipalities administer their own zoning within city limits, while Riley County administers zoning in unincorporated areas.
      “The zoning regulations for the City regulate all land uses within the city limit boundary (not the MUAPB boundary) and zoning regulations for Riley County regulate all land uses within the unincorporated area of the county.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Riley County zoning districts in unincorporated areas.

    • Three single-family residential districts are expressly identified: SF-1, SF-2, and SF-3.
    • District rules include permitted and conditional uses and physical restrictions.

    identified single-family zoning districts: 3 districts

    “The Riley County Land Development Regulations provide three (3) distinct Single Family Residential zones.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Riley County zoning districts and district-specific land-use standards.
      “The Riley County Land Development Regulations provide three (3) distinct Single Family Residential zones.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Single-family residential zoning districts in unincorporated Riley County.

    • SF-1 requires at least 2 acres.
    • SF-2 requires at least 10,000 square feet.
    • SF-3 requires at least 6,500 square feet unless otherwise required by the Riley County Sanitary Code.

    SF-1 minimum lot area: >= 2 acres · SF-2 minimum lot area: >= 10000 square feet · SF-3 minimum lot area: >= 6500 square feet (unless otherwise required by the Riley County Sanitary Code)

    “"SF-1" requires a minimum of 2 acres and allows for the keeping of livestock. "SF-2" requires a minimum lot area of 10,000 square feet while "SF-3" requires 6,500 square feet unless otherwise required by the Riley County Sanitary Code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Single-family residential zoning districts in unincorporated Riley County.
      “"SF-2" requires a minimum lot area of 10,000 square feet while "SF-3" requires 6,500 square feet unless otherwise required by the Riley County Sanitary Code.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Building setbacks in unincorporated Riley County zoning categories.

    • Generally, buildings must be 25 feet from all right-of-way lines except when abutting a major or minor traffic way.
    • Side and rear setbacks vary by zoning category and building type.
    • The right-of-way line is not necessarily the pavement edge.

    general right-of-way setback: >= 25 feet (except when abutting a major or minor traffic way)

    “Generally, all buildings must be setback from all right-of-way lines 25 feet except when abutting a major or minor traffic way”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Zoning districts in unincorporated Riley County.
      “These zones regulate permitted uses as well as physical restrictions, lot size, building setback requirements, building height restrictions, and floodplain development.”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Building-height restrictions in unincorporated Riley County zoning districts.

    • Height restrictions are part of the county zoning regulations.
    • Specific numeric limits vary by district and were not fully extracted from the opened pages.
    “These zones regulate permitted uses as well as physical restrictions, lot size, building setback requirements, building height restrictions, and floodplain development.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Building height standards in unincorporated Riley County zoning districts.
      “These zones regulate permitted uses as well as physical restrictions, lot size, building setback requirements, building height restrictions, and floodplain development.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured homes outside mobile-home parks in unincorporated Riley County.

    • Manufactured homes outside a mobile-home park must be placed on a permanent foundation.
    • A building permit is required.
    • The zoning district and applicable dimensional standards must also be satisfied.
    “Manufactured homes located outside of a mobile home park are required to be placed on a permanent foundation and require a building permit.”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    Private wastewater disposal systems administered by Riley County Environmental Health.

    • Riley County Environmental Health supports and enforces the county Sanitary Code through permits and inspections.
    • KDHE or other state requirements may also apply, but the cited county pages identify Riley County Environmental Health as the administering office.
    “Environmental Health supports and enforces the Riley County Sanitary Code (pdf) through education, evaluation, permits and inspection.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County — Administration and enforcement of private wastewater-disposal rules in unincorporated Riley County.
      “This Code and all authorized rules, regulations, and restrictions authorized by this Code shall apply to the unincorporated area of Riley County, Kansas [...] The Administrative Agency for Riley County is the Riley County Planning and Development Department.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    New private wastewater disposal systems in Riley County.

    • A profile/site evaluation application and fee begin the process.
    • Standard, lagoon, and alternative systems require the applicable county application and fee.
    • A septic permit is required if water is run into a structure, according to the county FAQ.
    “Prior to the installation of a standard private wastewater disposal system (“standard system”), the property owner or the licensed installer shall submit a completed Wastewater System with Standard Field Application (pdf) and fee (pdf) .”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, repair, modification, and operation of private wastewater-disposal systems in unincorporated Riley County.
      “No person shall construct, repair, or modify, or allow to be constructed, repaired, or modified, any private wastewater disposal system until a permit application has been received and approved by the Administrative Agency. No person shall operate a private wastewater disposal system without a permit issued by the Administrative Agency. The permit shall be issued after construction has been approved.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Private wastewater systems in Riley County, including alternative systems and septic tanks.

    • Alternative systems are subject to annual inspection.
    • Standard septic tanks must be pumped and inspected by a licensed hauler at least every five years.
    • Alternative-system annual inspection costs $100; reinspection costs $75.

    standard septic tank inspection interval: per 5 years · alternative-system annual inspection fee: 100 USD · alternative-system reinspection fee: 75 USD

    “Septic tanks shall be pumped and inspected by a licensed hauler (pdf) a minimum of every five (5) years to verify the tees are in place and the tank has not deteriorated.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Private wastewater-disposal systems in unincorporated Riley County, including construction approval, septic-tank maintenance, and alternative-system inspections.
      “All private wastewater disposal systems constructed, repaired, or modified after the effective date of this code must be inspected and approved by the Administrative Agency for compliance with the approved plans [...] Septic tanks shall be pumped and inspected a minimum of every five (5) years [...] All Alternative Private Wastewater Disposal Systems - Active shall be subject to an annual inspection”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Private, non-public sanitation methods in unincorporated Riley County, including privies and private wastewater systems.

    • A privy on property served by public water or where water is delivered under pressure requires special permission from the Administrative Agency.
    • A privy must be at least 300 feet from any dwelling other than the owner's dwelling.
    • Cesspools, seepage pits, and other wastewater-disposal methods not described as acceptable in the Code or adopted references are illegal and must be removed after registered-mail notice.
    • Private wastewater systems must be inspected and approved before use.
    • The Code does not apply to a tract under one ownership exceeding 600 acres used only for agricultural purposes, except for residences located thereon.

    privy separation from another dwelling: >= 300 feet (the owner's dwelling)

    “Cesspools, seepage pits, and other wastewater disposal methods not described as acceptable in this code or by the references adopted by this code, are illegal and shall be removed from operation immediately upon notification of the owner by registered mail. [...] No privy shall be constructed or reconstructed on any premise served by a public water supply, or on which water is delivered to any building under pressure, unless special permission for use of a privy is obtained from the Administrative Agency. No privy shall be constructed less than 300 feet from any dwelling other than that of the owner of the privy.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Type I and Type II private water-supply wells in unincorporated Riley County.

    • A well drilling permit must be obtained before drilling a Type I or Type II private water-supply well.
    • Type II supplies also require plan approval, an application approval, and a use permit before use.
    • Well construction is regulated under K.A.R. 28-30-1 through 28-30-10 et seq.
    • A water-well record must be submitted within 30 days after construction or plugging.
    • The Code does not apply to a tract under one ownership exceeding 600 acres used only for agricultural purposes, except for residences located thereon.

    well record submission deadline: <= 30 days (after construction or plugging)

    “No well serving a Type I or Type II private water supply shall be drilled without first obtaining a well drilling permit from the Administrative Agency. [...] Well construction shall be regulated in accordance with K.A.R. 28-30-1 through 28-30-10 et seq., as amended. [...] Within 30 days after construction or plugging of a water well, the water well contractor shall submit a copy of the water well record”
  • Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)

    Private wastewater-disposal systems in unincorporated Riley County located within 400 feet of an existing public sewer.

    • A private system may be constructed, repaired, or modified within 400 feet of an existing public sewer only if the Administrative Agency finds connection to the sewer is not reasonably feasible and the private system can meet the Code.
    • The Code does not apply to a tract under one ownership exceeding 600 acres used only for agricultural purposes, except for residences located thereon.

    distance from existing public sewer: <= 400 feet (Administrative Agency may approve a private system if connection is not reasonably feasible and the system meets the Code)

    “No private wastewater disposal system shall be constructed, repaired, or modified within 400 feet of an existing public sewer, unless the Administrative Agency finds that connection to such a sewer is not reasonably feasible and that a private wastewater disposal system meeting the requirements of this Code can be constructed on that property.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Agricultural uses under Riley County Land Development Regulations.

    • The source states an exemption from the LDR provisions; other requirements, including sanitary, floodplain, driveway, or state rules, may still apply.
    • The source does not define every qualifying agricultural use.
    “Except for agriculture uses, which are exempt from the provisions of the Riley County Land Development Regulations, it is unlawful to use any land or building for any purpose that is not permitted within the zoning district in which it is located.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Agricultural uses under the Riley County Land Development Regulations.
      “Except for agriculture uses, which are exempt from the provisions of the Riley County Land Development Regulations, it is unlawful to use any land or building for any purpose that is not permitted within the zoning district in which it is located.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision, platting, and creation of lots, tracts, or parcels in unincorporated Riley County.

    • Before subdividing land into lots, blocks, tracts, or parcels, an application for platting and possible rezoning is required.
    • Manhattan Urban Area subdivision provisions apply in the designated unincorporated Manhattan Urban Area boundary.
    “The Riley County Land Development Regulations require that before subdividing land into lots and blocks, tracts and/or parcels for the purpose of laying out any subdivision, suburban lots, building lots, tracts or parcels, you must apply for platting and possible rezoning of the property.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision and land division in unincorporated Riley County, with separate rules in different unincorporated areas.
      “The Land Development Regulations (LDR) encompass zoning, subdivision, and floodplain regulations.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    All new residential development in the unincorporated area of Riley County.

    • Agricultural uses are exempt.
    • The standards are effective January 1, 2022.
    • They are not retroactive and do not apply to existing driveways.
    • The standards address safe ingress and egress and emergency-responder access.

    effective date: 2022-01-01 (not retroactive)

    “With the exception of agricultural uses which are exempt, all new residential development must meet these standards. These regulations, effective January 1, 2022, are not retroactive and do not apply to existing driveways.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New residential development and driveway access in unincorporated Riley County.
      “With the exception of agricultural uses which are exempt, all new residential development must meet these standards.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Construction or development within the Riley County floodplain.

    • A floodplain development permit is required before building in the floodplain.
    • The floodplain page directs applicants to the county floodplain permit application.
    “Do I need a Floodplain Development Permit (pdf) in order to build in the floodplain? Yes.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term rental properties in unincorporated Riley County; a short-term rental is a home or apartment rented for up to 30 days.

    • A county short-term-rental license is required.
    • The application requires a $200 license fee, trash-disposal plan, rules of conduct, and a property-boundaries map showing buildings and parking.
    • Sleeping quarters may only be in a habitable structure and may not be in a nonresidential accessory structure without finished living space, commercial or industrial space, temporary outdoor structure, or recreational vehicle.
    • The rental must comply with the LDR, Riley County Sanitary Code, applicable fire codes, and other state or federal rules.
    • One off-street parking space is required per bedroom.
    • Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM and noise during those hours may not exceed 65 dBA at the property line.
    • No more than two overnight guests per bedroom plus three additional overnight guests may be accommodated.
    • The source page states the use is limited to 30 days.

    maximum rental stay: <= 30 days · license fee: 200 USD · minimum off-street parking: per 1 space per bedroom · quiet hours: 10:00 PM-7:00 AM · quiet-hours noise limit: <= 65 dBA at property line

    “To apply for a short-term rental license, the property owner(s) must submit the following documents to the Riley County Planning and Development Office:”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Riley County building permits.

    • Residential principal structure fee is $150.
    • Commercial/industrial principal structure fee is $225.
    • Residential addition/accessory structure fee is $150.
    • Commercial/industrial addition/accessory structure fee is $225.
    • Fees double if construction starts before permit issuance.
    • When principal and accessory structures are constructed simultaneously, the combined total is $50 above the principal-structure fee.

    residential principal structure fee: 150 USD · commercial/industrial principal structure fee: 225 USD · residential addition/accessory structure fee: 150 USD · commercial/industrial addition/accessory structure fee: 225 USD

    “Residential Principal Structure.......................................$150 Commercial/Industrial Principal Structure......................$225 Residential Addition/Accessory Structure.......................$150 Commercial/Industrial Addition/Accessory Structure................$225”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Riley County building permits.
      “Residential Principal Structure.......................................$150 Commercial/Industrial Principal Structure......................$225 Residential Addition/Accessory Structure.......................$150 Commercial/Industrial Addition/Accessory Structure................$225”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County building-permit process in unincorporated Riley County.

    • The permit verifies zoning, setbacks, Sanitary Code requirements, and other basic requirements.
    • Separate application categories exist for site-built/modular/shouse dwellings, manufactured homes, accessory or agricultural accessory buildings, additions/remodels/pools/decks/porches, and commercial-industrial buildings.
    • Projects involving plumbing or increased wastewater loading should contact Environmental Health.
    “The permit is necessary to verify that the zoning is proper for the intended use, the required setbacks from property lines are achieved, Sanitary Code requirements are met and other basic requirements of this type.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Riley County building and related development permit process.
      “Building Permit Application (pdf) Commercial Building Permit Application (pdf) Environmental Evaluation Application (pdf) Floodplain Development Permit Application (pdf) Private Water Supply Well Application (pdf)”

Kansas rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable

    An actual owner of commercial, residential, or farm property performing roofing services personally, or using employees to perform them, on the owner's own dwelling or another structure located on the residential or farm property owned by that person.

    • The work must be roofing services, including construction, installation, renovation, repair, maintenance, alteration, waterproofing, or removal of materials or structures.
    • The owner must perform the work personally or use employees; the exemption applies without the assistance of any registered roofing contractor.
    • The statute separately exempts roofing services whose aggregate price on each undertaking or project during any fiscal year is less than $2,000, but that exemption does not apply to a person who advertises or uses a sign, card, or other device indicating that the person is a roofing contractor or qualified to engage in that business.
    • An administrative or governing body with authority to enter into public contracts must require individual roofing-contractor registration for persons submitting or entering into a public bid or contract.
    • This is a roofing-registration exemption only; it does not establish a general exemption from local contractor licensing, building permits, or inspections.
    “The roofing contractor registration act shall not apply to:(1) An actual owner of commercial, residential or farm property who physically performs, or has employees who perform, roofing services including, construction, installation, renovation, repair, maintenance, alteration, waterproofing or removal of materials or structures on such owner's own dwelling or another structure located on the residential or farm property owned by such person without the assistance of any registered roofing contractor;”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Any portion of a State of Kansas-owned building that has been in construction or has a change in occupancy, under the Department of Administration DCC process.

    • Form 150 is issued before occupancy of any portion of a building that has been in construction or has a change in occupancy.
    • Healthcare and childcare occupancies and Board of Regents capital-improvement projects require OSFM participation in construction inspections before authorization or acceptance of occupancy.
    • The manual states that failure to submit the occupancy request and schedule required inspections results in denial of occupancy.

    certificate form: Form 150 - Certificate of Occupancy

    “Form 150 - Certificate of Occupancy will be issued by DCC prior to occupancy of any portion of a building that has been in construction or has a change in occupancy. For Healthcare and Childcare Occupancies and Capital Improvement Projects for the Board of Regents, OSFM will perform construction inspections prior to authorization/acceptance of occupancy.”
  • Lot coverageDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Percentage of a lot that may be occupied under applicable Kansas municipal or county zoning regulations.

    • Actual lot-coverage percentage is set by the applicable local zoning classification, if adopted.
    • No statewide numeric lot-coverage percentage was identified.

    maximum percentage of lot occupied: local zoning classification percent

    “the percentage of lots that may be occupied”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Kansas counties adopting zoning regulations for all or any portion of unincorporated county territory.

    • The authority is exercised by the board of county commissioners through resolution and under the applicable planning-and-zoning act.
    • Permissible subjects include building height, number of stories, building size, lot coverage, yards and open spaces, population density including minimum lot dimensions, building and land uses, and floodplain land use.
    • County zoning jurisdiction may cover all or any portion of the unincorporated area; incorporated municipalities have separate statutory zoning jurisdiction.
    “The board of county commissioners, by resolution, may provide for the adoption or amendment of zoning regulations for the unincorporated portion of the county in the manner, and for the purposes, provided by this act.”
  • county building authorityLimited

    Kansas counties' authority to require building permits and regulate construction in unincorporated areas through subdivision regulations

    • The county must first adopt a comprehensive plan before adopting subdivision regulations under K.S.A. 19-2961.
    • The permit procedures apply to lots divided, subdivided, resubdivided, or replatted within an area governed by the county's subdivision regulations.
    • No building authorization may be granted for a structure on a lot subdivided, resubdivided, or replatted after adoption of the regulations unless the statutory approval process is followed.
    • Regulations must provide a building-permit procedure for lots divided into not more than two tracts without replatting, unless otherwise provided.
    • Permit procedures must account for zoning regulations, adequate street rights-of-way, easements, and improvement of public facilities, and specify a decision time limit.
    • The statute permits the final permit decision to be made by the county commission, subject to other law.

    maximum tracts for permit without replatting: <= 2 tracts (unless otherwise provided by the county regulations)

    “Any regulations adopted by the board of county commissioners with reference to subdividing lots shall provide for the issuance of building permits”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — Kansas counties adopting and enforcing building codes in unincorporated portions of the county.
      “Any part of a code adopted pursuant to the provisions of this section may be made applicable, by resolution, either to all unincorporated portions of the county or to any area of the county outside of but within three (3) miles of the nearest point of the corporate limits of any city.”

Set by your township or city, not the county

In Kansas, zoning is adopted by each township or city, so Riley County has no county-wide answer on these. Find your township or city in the list of places on this page, or call its clerk or zoning administrator.

  • Minimum dwelling size
  • Living in an RV
  • Camping on your land
  • Tiny homes
  • Accessory dwellings

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Riley County, Kansas

Is Riley County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Riley County scores 65/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and sparse surroundings — about 7,243 people within a 30-minute drive.

Do you need a building permit in Riley County, Kansas?

Riley County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Riley County Environmental Health Division (Riley County Sanitary Code). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Riley County, Kansas?

Land in Riley County runs about $3,371 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Riley County?

Riley County gets about 33.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 9.9% of years.

How remote is Riley County?

A representative private-land location has about 7,243 people within a 30-minute drive and 769,613 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Riley compares in Kansas

Compare side-by-side →See all 105 Kansas counties ranked →