What Is Contractor Licensing?
Contractors performing regulated work within Kansas City, Missouri, must obtain the appropriate licenses before pulling permits or performing work. Contractor licensing helps ensure that work is completed safely, professionally, and in compliance with the Kansas City Building and Rehabilitation Code.
The City Planning & Development Department's Permits Division administers contractor licensing, certification, registration, and renewals within Kansas City, Missouri.
Find more information on the Contractor Licensing City page .
Types of Contractor Licenses
Demolition
Demolition Supervisors, Class I and Class II, oversee the dismantling and removal of structures. Certification ensures supervisors understand demolition safety practices, permitting requirements, debris management, and site protection measures.
Electrical
Electrical certifications authorize qualified individuals to supervise and perform electrical installation, maintenance, and repair work.
Available certifications include:
- Electrical Supervisor
- Master Electrician
- Master Limited Electrician
These certifications cover electrical systems, wiring methods, code compliance, and electrical safety standards.
Elevator
Elevator Supervisor certifications are required for individuals responsible for elevator installation, modernization, maintenance, and repair work.
Available certifications include:
- Elevator Supervisor Class I
- Elevator Supervisor Class II
These certifications help ensure safe operation of elevators and conveyance systems.
Fire Protection
Fire Protection Supervisors oversee the installation and maintenance of fire sprinkler and fire suppression systems designed to protect life and property.
Available certifications include:
- Fire Protection Supervisor Class I
- Fire Protection Supervisor Class II
- Fire Protection Supervisor Class III
Certifications focus on fire protection system design, installation standards, and code compliance.
Gas-Fired Appliances
Gas-Fired Appliance Supervisors are qualified to install, service, and supervise work involving gas-fired equipment and appliances. Certification requirements focus on fuel gas systems, appliance installation standards, ventilation requirements, and safety practices.
Mechanical
Mechanical certifications are required for individuals supervising HVAC and mechanical system installations.
Available certifications include:
- Mechanical Supervisor
- Master Pipe Fitter
These certifications cover heating, ventilation, air conditioning, piping systems, and related mechanical equipment.
Operating Engineers
Operating Engineer certifications apply to individuals responsible for operating and maintaining certain mechanical equipment and pressure vessel systems.
Available certifications include:
- Operating Engineer
- Steam Operating Engineer
- Fireman
- Plant Fireman
These certifications focus on the safe operation of boilers, steam systems, and other mechanical plant equipment.
Plumbing
Plumbing certifications are required for individuals performing or supervising plumbing work.
Available certifications include:
- Journeyman Plumber
- Master Plumber
These certifications cover water supply systems, sanitary drainage systems, fixtures, piping installation, and plumbing code requirements.
Residential Building
Residential Building Supervisors oversee construction, alteration, and repair work involving one- and two-family dwellings and townhomes. Certification requirements focus on residential building codes, construction methods, structural requirements, and life-safety standards.
Sign Contractors
Sign Supervisors oversee the construction, installation, and maintenance of permanent and temporary signs. Certification ensures familiarity with structural requirements, electrical components, permitting requirements, and sign code regulations.
How to Become a Licensed Contractor with KCMO
Step 1. Obtain a Business License
A business license is needed before applying for contractor licenses. You can apply for a business license in one of the following ways:
- Use the QuickTax system for online business license registration. If you have questions about the QuickTax system or specific business license questions, call (816) 513-1120, ext. 3. Processing typically takes 7-10 business days.
- Fill out the RD-100 Registration Application and fax or mail it using the information on the form. Processing typically takes 7-10 business days.
- Visit City Hall at 414 E. 12th St., Kansas City, MO 64106, Monday through Friday between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM to get your license issued on the spot.
Step 2. Apply for a Certificate of Qualification
Apply for a Certificate of Qualification, also known as a professional license, in the respective trade or trades for which you will perform work through CompassKC . This application must be submitted by the qualified individual or supervisor.
See required reference letters and trade requirements on the Contractor Licensing City page .
Step 3. Apply for the Contractor License
Once you have both a business license and a Certificate of Qualification established, you can apply for the Contractor License for the business through CompassKC .
Information Bulletins (IBs)
Information Bulletins, or IBs, provide guidance on permitting, licensing, inspections, plan review requirements, and code compliance in Kansas City, Missouri. These documents are designed to help contractors, property owners, developers, and design professionals navigate the City's development and permitting processes.
IBs may include:
- Permit application requirements and forms
- Plan review and approval procedures
- Inspection requirements and scheduling information
- Licensing and certification requirements
- Insurance and cash deposit requirements
- Building, zoning, and land development code guidance
- Residential and commercial construction requirements
- Appeals, occupancy, and compliance procedures
More information on Information Bulletins is available in the Information Bulletin Index .
Contractor License Renewal
Contractor licenses must remain active to perform work and obtain permits within Kansas City, Missouri. To avoid interruptions in business operations, contractors should renew their licenses before expiration and ensure all required documentation remains current.
You will need to renew your Kansas City Business License before renewing your contractor license.
Contact
City Planning & Development Department - Permits Division
414 E. 12th St., 5th Floor
Kansas City, MO 64106
(816) 513-1500 ext. 1, option 2
Walk-in customer hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Walk-in customers are advised to arrive on the 5th floor no later than 3:45 PM to ensure timely service.