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1. How is my gas bill calculated?

A base rate of $12.14 for household meters is added to the cost of gas used, plus 1% tax. The unit cost (1,000 cubic feet) is determined by the City’s cost per unit, plus an additional $2 per unit for repayment of state gas loan.

2. How is my water bill calculated?

The base rate is $22 for a household meter inside the city limit plus the cost of water used outside city limits the household base rate is $32.74. The unit cost (1,000 gallons) is a tiered rate:

• 1 to 10 units (1,000 to 10,000 gallons) is $5.89 per unit
• 11 to 15 units (10,001 to 15,000 gallons) is $7.29 per unit
• More than 15 units (over 15,001 gallons) is $9.24 per unit

3. Am I required to have recycling?

Recycling is required by ordinance for all residential properties within Kechi City Limits. Because of the contract for recycling services, and the City processing the bills for trash and recycling, customers using Waste Connection for trash are given a preferential rate. Recycling is $4.25 per month and trash service is $12.50 per month.

4. How is my sewer bill calculated?

Sewer charges are based upon the winter average water use. Water use for December, January and February are averaged to determine the sewer charges. These are calculated in March, and become effective for March usage which is reflected on the April bill. For new customers, the sewer charge will be the City’s average winter water use.

Base rate for Sewer inside the City Limits is $22.04 and each unit is $9.57.  The base rate for outside the City Limits is $33.06 and each unit is $9.57.

5. If I have a leak, what are my responsibilities?

When leaks occur on the customer’s side of the meter (the water or gas went through the meter), the customer is responsible for repair and usage. If the leak occurs prior to going through the meter, it is the City's responsibility to repair, and you are not charged for usage.

6. How much trash am I allowed to put with my trash cart?

You can put up to 10 extra bags with your cart at no additional charge. However, if you have large items like couches, mattresses, dressers, or carpet, there is additional bulk charges. Please contact City Hall at 316-744-9287 to make arrangements for bulk pick ups.

7. When is my Utility Deposit refunded?

For a homeowner the deposit is refunded with interest after two years and for a renter after five years, if the account has been kept in good standing.  If the owner/renter moves out prior to those lengths of time, the deposit is refunded upon final payment being received. 

8. Can I have autopay for my utility account?

Yes.  You need complete an Autopay Agreement Form and submit it to City Hall.  The first bill will be a pre-authorization and will need to be paid using another method.  After processing the auto-pay, your bill will show "DO NOT PAY - AUTOPAY" under the balance due.  

9. Can I have my bill emailed to me?

Yes.  Please send an email to kbrown@kechiks.gov with name on the account and the email address the bill is to be sent.

10. Can I view my account online?

Although you cannot view the account online, you can view your balance.  If you go to Online Payment Link, you can enter your account number and last name on the account to view the current balance.  You do not need to make a payment to view.

We are moving forward with new utility billing software, which when implemented will allow you to access other billing account information.

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1. Are zoning permits required if building or placing an improvement, such as a shed or a sign, on my property if a building permit is not required?

Yes, zoning permits are required for most improvements to review the placement on the property and conformance to the zoning regulations.

2. Are any permits required to erect a fence?

Yes, there are several zoning regulations regarding fences.

3. Can I expand or change the vehicle parking on my property?

You must submit a drawing/plan on how the parking will be changed and what type of surfacing will be used to the Zoning Administrator for review and approval.

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1. How do I contact the Chamber of Commerce?

The Kechi Chamber of Commerce can be contacted by emailing the Chamber of Commerce.

2. How do I become a vendor at the Kechi Farmer’s Market?

To request vendor information for the Kechi Farmer’s Market email the Chamber of Commerce.

3. How do I become a Kechi Chamber of Commerce member?

To become a member, email the Chamber of Commerce.

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1. How do I submit an open records request?

To request open records, please fill out a records inspection form and return it to the City Clerk.

2. How can I add myself to the open meetings distribution list?

To be notified about public meetings please fill out a meeting notification form and return it to the City Clerk.

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1. How do I contact the entire City Council?

To contact the entire City Council, email the City Clerk.

2. How do I apply for a city board or commission?

Residents are encouraged to apply for open seats on city board and commissions. See the Boards and Commissions page for more information.

3. Who represents me on the City Council?

All members of the City Council are elected at-large, this means council members serve as representatives for the entire community. If you have a question or request, you can contact any council member at any time.

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1. When do I need a Building Permit?

Building Permits are required by the City of Kechi when there is construction work of the following: 

• Addition
• Alteration
• Demolition of a residential or commercial facility like: 
  • Building
  • Garage
  • Pool
  • Roof
  • Siding
  • Spa
  • Structure
• New building
• Relocation
• Repair
• Replacement

Building Permit Requirements

For permit approval you will need a completed Building Permit Application (PDF), application fee, and blueprints (may not apply to your permit, please call to verify).  Most building permits require an inspection upon completion of the project, please verify when the permit is pulled.

2. When do I need a Plumbing Permit?

Plumbing permits are required by the City of Kechi when residential, commercial or patient medical gas or plumbing work is needed. For permit approval, you will need a completed Plumbing Permit Application (PDF) and application fee. Most plumbing permits require an inspection upon completion of the project, please verify when permit is pulled.

3. When do I need an Electrical Permit?

Electrical permits are required by the City of Kechi when there is the following electrical work for a single family, multi-family, business, medical / dental office, or hospital:

• Basement Finish
• Hot Tub
• New Addition
• Remodel
• Repair
• Spa or Swimming Pool

Application Process

For permit approval, you will need a completed Electrical Permit Application (PDF) and application fee. Inspections are required upon completion of electrical projects, and depending on the work being done, inspections may be required prior to completion of projects.

4. When do I need a mechanical permit?

Mechanical permits are required by the City of Kechi when there is work done on the following areas: 

• Air Conditioning
• Exhaust / Dryers / Ventilation
• Fireplaces
• Heating Appliances
• Hood Systems
• Refrigeration
• Roof Tops

Application Process

For permit approval, you will need a completed Mechanical Permit Application (PDF) and application fee. Inspections are required upon completion of most mechanical projects, please verify when permit is pulled.

5. Is a building permit required for a storage shed?

A building permit is required for sheds over 200 square feet. However, a Zoning Compliance Certificate is required for all storage buildings regardless of size. View the Licenses and Permits page for more information.

6. Do detached garages require a building permit?

Yes, both a Building Permit (PDF) and Zoning Compliance Certificate Application (PDF) are required.

7. Is a permit required for replacing a hot water heater?

A Plumbing Permit (PDF) is required for replacement of a hot water heater, as well as an inspection upon completion of the project.

8. Is a permit required for a new fence?

New fences require a Zoning Compliance Certificate Application (PDF).  If the planned fence is taller than 6ft, it will also require a building permit, a conditional use permit, and be engineered to include footings.

9. Who may get required permits?

The homeowner may get a permit, provided they are doing the work themselves, otherwise it is required to be a contractor, licensed through the City of Kechi.

10. Do I need a permit for a deck?

All decks require a Zoning Compliance Certificate (PDF), and decks over 30 inches will also require a Building Permit (PDF).

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1. How do I apply for a city board or commission?

Residents are encouraged to apply for open seats on city board and commissions. Appointments are typically in the Spring of each year. View the Boards and Commissions page for more information.

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1. Can I pay my fine without appearing in court?

If your citation was written for a traffic infraction only, you may pay your fine without appearing in court. If your citation was written for a misdemeanor you will be required to appear in court.

2. How can I pay my fine?

You may pay your fine by cash, check, debit/credit card or money order. Payments can be made in person at the Kechi Police Department (105 North Sioux), over the phone (316-744-6611), or online. There is a 2.5% processing fee for all debit/credit card payments.

3. How can I appeal my case?

Appeals must be filed with Sedgwick County District Court within 14 days of conviction in Municipal Court.

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1. When will my police report be ready for pick it up?

It usually takes 5 to 10 business days for the report to be processed. It is best to call 316-744-6611 and see if the report is ready before you come to the Police Department.

2. Is there someone available to do a vehicle identification number (VIN) inspection?

The Kechi Police Department does not provide this service, but a VIN inspection can be done through the Kansas Highway Patrol - Troop F at:
1900 E Tigua Street
Kechi, KS 67067

They can be contacted by phone at 316-744-0451.

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1. How do I report a violation or complaint?

To report a violation or compliant, please call the Code Enforcement Division at 316-755-5266; or email your complaint to City Inspector Craig Coffey.

2. What does it mean if I receive a notice of violation?

A complaint was received, and/or an inspection revealed that there may be a violation. Usually, you will first be notified by use of a door-hanger request for compliance; otherwise a certified compliance letter will be mailed to your address of record. If there is no response, or corrective action is not completed as requested within a specified period of time, you may be notified of hearing before the city’s Judge. If you need additional time to comply, please call the Code Enforcement Division at 316-522-5266. Our goal is to achieve compliance with the regulations; monetary fines are a last resort.

3. What are some common types of violations?

In no particular order, the following violations are the most common:

• Litter and debris - In order to preserve a clean and neat appearance in the city, no accumulation of litter, debris, garbage, trash, discarded items of junk of any nature is allowed.
• Permits and licenses - Building permits, sign installation permits and occupational licenses are generally required for any such activity within the city.
• Property and yard maintenance - Chipped or peeling paint, broken windows, high grass or weeds
• Vehicle parking - Parking vehicles, boats, and trailers on residential properties without proper license or registration or improper storage of recreational vehicles, boats and trailers in the front yard.

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1. Who provides the City of Kechi with natural gas?

The City of Kechi owns and operates the gas system. Gas product is purchased from the Kansas Municipal Gas Association.

2. If I smell gas who do I call?

If you think you smell gas inside your home you should go outside without shuffling your feet or turning on or off any appliances or switches and contact the city at 316-744-9287 someone for the Gas Department is on call 24/7.

3. If I call and the city sends someone out to check for gas leak do I get charged?

The City will send someone out to check for leaks free of charge.

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1. Can I rent the gazebos?

The gazebos are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

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1. What is stormwater?

Stormwater qualifies as pollutants that end up in the ground water contaminating creeks and streams, such as:

• Antifreeze
• Copper
• Detergents
• Lead
• Oil
• Pesticides
• Silver

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1. Who grades the roads for the Sunnydale area?

The City of Kechi grades these roads and applies all the sand and rock on these roads. They also remove snow during and after snow events.

2. How and when does the City communicate road closures?

If a road is closed due to a construction project or a repair the City makes every effort to communicate closures in advance to residents. Residents are notified by phone, utility bill inserts, and on City social media accounts.

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1. Does the City of Kechi have a wastewater treatment facility?

No, all wastewater is sent to the City of Wichita for treatment.

2. Does the City of Kechi own the wastewater utility?

Yes, the City owns and maintains the lines and administers billing. The City is simply a wholesale wastewater customer of the City of Wichita.

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1. If I have a back-flow device does it need to be tested?

Yes, it is mandatory that every year back flow devices be checked. If not, your water service might be shut off.