FAQs • Manhattan • CivicEngage

I have a drainage easement on my property. What can I build on this easement?: Drainage easements must be kept clear of all obstacles in order to properly carry the run-off from storms. Structures, fences, bushes, shrubs, new trees, and playground equipment such as swing sets and similar items that would impede the flow of water or trap debris must not be placed in a drainage easement.

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Public Works

1. How can I find out the easements on my property?: That information can be found on a plat map. You can contact Riley County Register of Deeds at 785-537-6340.

2. How can I find out where a street is located within the City of Manhattan?: That information can be obtained from a City of Manhattan Road Map. To obtain a copy of that map, contact Customer Service at 785-587-2485 or Public Works at 785-587-2415. You can also view street information on a GIS map.

3. How can I get a copy of a Subdivision Plat drawing?: For copies of Subdivision Plat drawings, please contact the Riley County Register of Deeds at 785-537-6340.

4. I have a drainage easement on my property. What can I build on this easement?: Drainage easements must be kept clear of all obstacles in order to properly carry the run-off from storms. Structures, fences, bushes, shrubs, new trees, and playground equipment such as swing sets and similar items that would impede the flow of water or trap debris must not be placed in a drainage easement.

5. I have a utility easement on my property. What can I build on this easement?: Generally, the city allows property owners to construct fences within utility easements. Sheds or other structures are not allowed. Removal/replacement is the responsibility of the property owner.

6. I have concerns about stormwater drainage. Who do I contact?: The City of Manhattan has a Stormwater Management Plan in place and is working on achieving its goals. To speak to someone regarding your concerns, please call our City Engineer's Office at 785-587-2415. For floodplain map copies and/or questions, please contact our Community Development Department at 785-587-2412.
You may also report a stormwater concern with our online Report It! feature.

7. I need to locate sewer and water lines on my property. Who should I call?: For city-maintained lines, contact the Public Works department at 785-587-4530. For lines privately maintained, contact the Kansas "One-Call" system at 800-DIG-SAFE.

8. My neighbor has diverted water onto my property. Who do I contact?: This is a civil matter, and the city does not become involved.

9. People are parking in front of my house and I am unable to park there. Can I restrict the area in front of my house so that only I can park there?: No. The street is available for public use and cannot be reserved for individuals.

10. People are parking too close to my curb. Will the city paint the curb near my driveway?: No. However, the property owner may paint the curb 3 feet from the end of the radius using yellow paint.

11. What are the steps necessary to get parking regulations changed on my street?: Submit a letter to Public Works outlining your requested change. The letter must be signed by as many property owners as possible who will be affected by the change. Parking regulation changes are established by ordinance and must be approved by the City Commission.

12. When is there a citywide cleanup program?: The city, in partnership with several local refuse companies, conducts an annual spring cleanup. It is generally held the last week of March or the first week of April. For more information, contact the street division at 785-587-4540.

13. Where can I get a street map of the City of Manhattan?: You can obtain a street map of the City of Manhattan at the Customer Service Desk in City Hall or call 785-587-2489.

14. Who determines which streets will be part of the street maintenance program?: The city has a Pavement Management Program, which assists in identifying streets requiring maintenance. The Public Works Department develops the annual Street Maintenance Program.

15. Who do I call for a new street address?: The Public Works Department assigns new addresses. To speak to someone regarding this, please call 785-587-2415.

16. Who do I contact to determine special assessment costs for developments?: To obtain estimated special assessment costs for new projects under construction, contact the Engineering Division of the Public Works Department at 785-587-2415. For completed projects, contact the Finance Department at 785-587-2417.

17. Who do I contact to find out the dimensions of a lot?: Lot dimension information can be found on Subdivision Plat drawings. Please contact Riley County Register of Deeds at 785-537-6340.

18. Who is responsible for maintaining the sidewalk along my property?: State statute places the responsibility of sidewalk maintenance upon the property owner.

19. Who is responsible for maintenance of my driveway, which is within the public right of way?: The property owner is responsible for all necessary maintenance of his/her driveway.