To learn more about opening a new business, contact the Project Manager Team at 816.969.1200, email or visit City Hall during business hours.
Development Services is here to answer questions and help navigate applicable review processes to open or expand businesses.
An application is required for any interior or exterior remodeling or construction activity and for any change of use to the building.
With few exceptions, a business license is required for all businesses. A zoning review will also be conducted during this review step.
A sign permit is required for most exterior signage, and in some instances, a building permit is also required.
Once reviews for any/all permits are completed and permits are issued, applicable inspections are scheduled and completed. Any fees or taxes are paid.
A building permit is required for any work to the interior or exterior of a building with some exceptions. Permit reviews are typically completed within 10 business days. Each type of permit has its associated fees depending upon construction activity, use and needs.
All commercial permit applications, whether the project is the construction of a new building or the alteration of an existing space must be signed and sealed by an engineer or architect registered with the state of Missouri.
A sign permit is required for any new sign installed within the City. Most signs can be issued administratively unless you are seeking a waiver or modification to any sign requirement.
A business license is required to operate any business in Lee’s Summit. Zoning approval is required for a new or relocated business if the business is located within city limits. If the business includes retail sales, the business must also have a Missouri Sales Tax Number.
An excise tax is a form of an infrastructure impact fee on applicable new development or redevelopment as well as a change of use. This tax is calculated by the square footage of the proposed space, use and the projected traffic impact. These funds are used for streets, roads, bridges and other transportation related improvements. Development Services can assist with determining an approximate fee amount.
The UDO includes zoning and subdivision platting regulations, controls and guides development and use of land to promote public safety, health and general welfare of the community.
The City has minimum parking requirements associated with each type of business or land use. Contact the Planner of the Day at 816.969.1200 for assistance.
A business license is required to operate any business in Lee’s Summit. Zoning approval from Development Services is required for a new or relocated business if the business is located within city limits. If the business includes retail sales, the business must also have a Missouri Sales Tax Number. Contact the mainline at 816.969.1200 for assistance.
Business License
A liquor license is required for any business or restaurant establishment engaging in the manufacture, brewing, sale, exposure for sale or resale, or distribution of any type of alcoholic beverage within city limits. Contact the Police Department at 816.969.1747 for assistance.
Liquor License
All commercial permit applications, whether the project is the construction of a new building, a new commercial tenant space or the alteration of an existing space, must be signed and sealed by an engineer or architect registered with the state of Missouri. Contact our mainline at 816.969.1200 for assistance.
More Information
Design standards are intended to provide parameters for the physical appearance, structure and placement of buildings in the downtown core area. An exterior renovation permit is required before any exterior work such as rehabilitation, remodeling or construction of a building addition. To apply for a permit, contact the Planner of the Day at 816.969.1200.
The City is currently utilizing the following Codes and Crime Prevention Reviews:
Unified Development Ordinance
Every parcel of land in Lee’s Summit is zoned to a designated zoning category or district. The Unified Development Ordinance lists all the zoning and uses permitted in each district. Some uses are permitted “by right,” some “with conditions” and some as “special uses.” Contact the Planner of the Day at 816.969.1200 for assistance.
We have additional design and sign standards for the downtown area which serve to promote businesses and economic development while protecting the existing character of the area and historic significance. Contact the Planner of the Day at 816.969.1200 for assistance.
A liquor license is required for any business or restaurant establishment engaging in the manufacture, brewing, sale, exposure for sale or resale, or distribution of any type of alcoholic beverage within city limits. Contact the Police Department at 816.969.1747 for assistance or see the Business Liquor License Permit page.