The Dam Safety Team, administered by the Division of Water Resources (DWR), is dedicated to protecting lives and property by minimizing the risks posed by dam failures. This mission is carried out through the review and approval of plans for the construction of new dams and the modification of existing structures, oversight to ensure quality control during construction, and ongoing monitoring and inspection of dams whose failure could result in loss of life, property, or significant disruption to public utilities and services.

To fulfill its responsibilities, DWR regulates the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of all dams and water-obstruction structures within its jurisdiction, excluding federally owned reservoirs.

If you observe any unusual conditions that could affect the safety of a dam, please report them to DWR. For emergency situations, call 1-800-915-6163.

Dam Owner Responsibility

The owner of the land upon which a dam and appurtenant works are constructed is considered the owner of the dam, unless an easement authorizes another person or entity to construct and maintain the dam. The dam owner is responsible for obtaining all necessary local, state and federal permits prior to construction or modification of the dam. The dam owner also is responsible for periodic inspections and any repairs or improvements needed to maintain the dam as permitted.

State Law and Adopted Regulations

Kansas state law requires the Chief Engineer to regulate the construction, operation and maintenance of any dam that is 25 feet or more in height, or six feet or more in height with the ability to store 50 acre-feet or more of water from the auxiliary spillway. The Kansas Legislature changed the definition of a dam in 2013 and made other changes outlined in this guidance document. The Chief Engineer adopted regulations establishing requirements for dam permits, periodic inspections and emergency action plans. Smaller impoundments that do not meet the statutory definition of a dam may still be regulated as a stream obstruction, depending on the watershed area.

• Statutes & Regulations link

Permit Applications

An approved permit must be obtained from the Chief Engineer prior to construction or modification of a dam. Each application for permit must be accompanied by maps, plans, specifications, a design report, the required permit fee and a completed application form. Additional information may be required on a case-by-case basis. Dam permit application fees are $200.

Permit application forms are available at the links below:

• Application form 2-200 (use for every project)
• Combined Water Structure & Water Appropriation Application form 6-102

For further assistance on permit requirements, go to our Permit Walkthrough Guide.