Improving lives through the power of design.
VISION: A Department that advocates for the greater good with empathy, professionalism, and expertise.
MISSION: To enhance the long-term value and livability of the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas through the creation of a regenerative community that is socially just, economically accessible, culturally diverse and environmentally sustainable. We consistently improve the built, natural, social and cultural environments through strategic planning, urban design, local development reviews, and zoning enforcement efforts. In collaboration with our many partners, we support public officials and empower citizens to realize their shared vision of the future.
2023 Citywide Comprehensive Plan Update
In 2023, the Department of Planning + Urban Design will launch the Citywide Comprehensive Plan, an update of the 2008 Citywide Master Plan. Watch the video to learn more:
2023 Citywide Comprehensive Plan: An Overview of Long-Range Planning Slides(PDF, 2MB)
Upcoming Board and Commission Hearings
Attention: Planning & Zoning/Full Commission for May 25, 2023
Attention: City Landmarks Commission Public Hearing Procedures for June 5, 2023
Attention: Board of Zoning Appeals/City Planning Commission Public Hearing Procedures for June 12, 2023
Note: All Board of Zoning Appeals, City Planning Commission, and Landmarks Commission hearings are back to in-person meetings (Board of Commissioners Chambers: 701 North 7th Street, Kansas City, Kansas 66101) with a hybrid option.
Approve Kansas City, Kansas Historic Commercial District
The creation of a Historic District in Downtown Kansas City, Kansas will bring recognition to the city's history and preserve that history for future generations. This project is 30 years in the making and represents one of the largest undertaking by the Department of Planning and Urban Design through its Historic Preservation office. This listing on the National Register of Historic Places will pave the way for historic buildings to have access to tax rebates and grants to repair and rehabilitate those buildings and help bring economic revitalization to Downtown Kansas City.
Ongoing Plans and Projects
Airbnb and Short-Term Rentals
Are you interested in hosting guests with Airbnb, VRBO, or similar service? These activities are a commercial use and require a review by Planning + Urban Design Staff in the Unified Government. Current hosts should apply immediately. Read more about short term rentals here.(PDF, 214KB)
The Unified Government adopted a new Short-Term Rental Ordinance on April 27, 2023; You can read our new ordinance here(PDF, 380KB). All new short-term rental applications will be subject to the new ordinance.
The Unified Government Short-Term Rental application is located below. Prior to applying for a short-term rental permit, you MUST first schedule a pre-application meeting with a member of Planning + Urban Design staff to determine the appropriate level of review. To schedule a pre-application meeting with a member of Planning + Urban Design Staff, please reach out to planninginfo@wycokck.org or call our office at (913) 573-5750.
Short-Term Rental Application(PDF, 1MB)