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ATA Bus

1. Do you offer services for citizens of Riley County that do not live in Manhattan?

Zone service is provided to Northern Riley County, with Monday and Tuesday pick-ups from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and return trips usually between 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m..

A "country run" is made to the areas of Leonardville, Riley and Randolph twice a month, on the second and fourth Friday. Riders are brought to Manhattan for the day and shuttled around town, returned to their homes in the afternoon.

Service to and from Ogden is available Monday through Friday. Riders wanting to ride the bus need to call Dispatch and schedule a ride on the Fort Riley Shuttle. Door to door demand service is available in Ogden for persons with mobility impairments, after an application is completed (Paratransit Intelligibility Application Part A (pdf) & Paratransit Eligibility Application Part B (pdf)). This ADA service is a "safety net" for those persons who do not have the functional abilities to access and ride the Ogden route bus. Every certified individual for this ADA service is required to re-certify for continuing eligibility every three years upon becoming initially certified. Call the office at (785) 537-6345 for further information.

2. How far in advance do I need to schedule a Demand Response ride?: Rides should be scheduled with the dispatcher at least 24 hours in advance.

3. How many vehicles are available for rides?: Fifteen vehicles (one mini van and 14 buses) are currently in operation. All vehicles are equipped with ramps and lifts to accommodate the needs of the mobility impaired.

4. How much will I pay to ride the ATA Bus Fixed Route?

Adults: $1.00
Youth, 6-18: $0.50
Children, 6 & Under: Free, with adult
Personal Care Attendants: Free
KSU Students, Faculty & Stall with current ID: Free point to point, from KSU Foundation, KSU Union and Edwards Hall
Seniors, Disabled and Low Income may apply for half fare discount card by completing the half fare application (pdf)
Monthly Pass: $30, provides unlimited rides during the month indicated on the pass

5. What hours does the ATA Bus operate?

Route	Weekdays	Weekends
Manhattan Fixed Routes	Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.	Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Manhattan Demand Response	Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.	N/A
Green Valley, St. George, Pottawatomie County	Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.	N/A
Fort Riley Shuttle	Monday - Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.	N/A
Junction City, Geary County	Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.	N/A
Route 1: Jardine	School Year Only: Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.	N/A
University Crossing (Deviated Fixed Route)	Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.	N/A
Safe Ride	School Year Only: Thursday - Friday, 11:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m.	School Year Only: Saturday, 11:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m.

6. What if I am mobility impaired and can not get to the bus stop?: Curb to curb demand response service is available on all shuttles and routes to provide persons with mobility impairments access. Persons eligible for the ADA service must complete an ADA Paratransit Eligibility Application Part A (pdf) & ADA Paratransit Eligibility Application Part B (pdf). If you live within a 3/4 mile of any route or shuttle services, please call the office at (785) 537-6345 to request a special accommodations application.

7. What if I don't live near the fixed routes?: Demand response services are available to residents of Manhattan who live more than 3/4 of a mile outside of the fixed route service area. Please call Dispatch at (785)537-6345 with any questions.

8. What is the fare for demand response trips?

Within three miles of city limits of Manhattan, Junction City and Fort Riley: $2.00 each way
Beyond three miles of city limits: $4.00 each way

9. What Regional Services does ATA bus provide?

Riders in any of the ATA Bus service areas (Manhattan, Riley County, Green Valley, St. George, Pottawatomie County, Junction City, Geary County and Fort Riley) may call dispatch at 1-877-551-6345 or (785) 537-6345, Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to schedule a ride.

Please call 24 hours in advance to schedule rides. Cut off for scheduling next day rides is 5:00 p.m..

10. Where does the funding for the ATA Bus come from?

We are a private nonprofit organization that receives funding from the following sources:

Federal Transit Administration
Kansas Department of Transportation
Kansas State University
Riley County
Pottawatomie County
Geary County
City of Manhattan
USD 383
User fees and donations

11. Can children ride the bus?

Demand Response

Children ten (10) and under can ride the demand response service for free. All children under the age of twelve (12) must be accompanied by an adult on demand response trips.

Fixed Route Services

Children riding the fixed route services, who are six (6) and younger, can ride the service for free. All children riding fixed route services under fourteen (14) must be accompanied by an adult.

Children under four (4) years old must be in a child safety seat, while children 4-8 years old must be in a safety or booster seat unless they weigh more than 80 lbs. or are taller than 4 ft. 9 inches tall. The child must be secured with an appropriate child seat provided by the parent or guardian. The parent or guardian will properly fasten such devices using the vehicle seat belts.

12. Will you transport animals?

For policy purposes, animals are considered either service animals or pets.

Service animals will be transported with their owners without restriction or extra cost. Service animals must be supervised and the owner/handler must retain full control of the animal at all times. Owners/handlers are responsible for cleanup of any waste or litter caused by the service animal and is liable for any damages the animals cause.

Pets may be transported with their owners if the pets are secured in an enclosed container and if they can be fit into the schedule. Pets have the lowest priority for transportation. Pets requiring emergency veterinary assistance will not be transported. An ill service animal is treated as a pet in this respect: such animals are not performing their service function.

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Attorney

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1. How can I drop charges against someone?: A victim does not file charges nor drop charges against another person. That is the responsibility of the Riley County Attorney's Office. If you are the victim of a crime, you may meet with the prosecutor assigned to the case to discuss your wishes by calling and setting up an appointment. When you call, be sure to identify yourself, provide the police case number and the name of the person who has been charged.

2. How can I find out if an arrest warrant has been issued on myself, a friend or relative?: The Riley County Attorney's Office will not reveal if an arrest warrant has been issued.

3. How do I obtain criminal history on a individual within Riley County?: The Riley County Attorney's Office will not release any criminal history information. If you wish to obtain criminal history information, please visit the Kansas Bureau of Investigation https://www.kansas.gov/kbi/

4. My landlord has threatened to kick me out of my house/apartment, what can I do?: The Riley County Attorney's Office does not handle Landlord Tenant issues. Please contact Housing and Credit Counseling Inc at (785) 539-6666.

5. When are first appearances in City Court/Municipal Court? Where is the court located?: First appearances in City Court/Municipal Court are Tuesday and Thursday at 8:00 a.m., located at 610 Colorado Street, Manhattan, KS 66502. Telephone: (785) 587-2450.

6. When are first appearances for District Court? Where is the court located?: First Appearances in the Riley County District Court are Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1:30 p.m.; he court is located at 100 Courthouse Plaza, the limestone building with the clock tower.

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Attorney - Checks

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1. How can I take care of my bad check case without going to court?

You will need permission from the Riley County Attorney's Office to take care of your check case without having to appear in court. The County Attorney's Office may or may not accept payment in return for dismissal of the case it is discretionary with the County Attorney's Office. Factors that will be considered is the amount for which the check was written, the position of the victim and whether you have a prior history of writing bad checks. Those factors will determine if the case is dismissed upon payment.

2. May I pay for my check with cash?: No. Money orders or cashiers checks are the only accepted source of payment.

3. May I pay for my check with another check?: No. Money orders and cashiers checks are the only accepted source of payment.

4. May I pay for my check with a credit card?: No. Money orders or cashiers checks are the only accepted source of payment.

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Attorney - Criminal

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1. I gave all of the information about my damages to the police, why do I have to do it again?: Often when the police take a report, it is immediately after the offense. It is difficult to estimate the value of the damage without having it evaluated by another party(i.e. insurance adjuster). For that reason, the information gathered by the police is used as an estimate of the value. In order to ensure that the request is fair and complete, we must ask this information be provided directly by the victim.

2. The Judge ordered restitution, but when will I be paid?: The Courts frequently order restitution as a condition of probation or parole. What this means is that the Defendant has the term of their probation period in which to pay the restitution and any other money owed. Typically, their probation officer will place them on a monthly payment schedule based on the Defendant's salary, outstanding debts, living situation, etc. The payments will be made to the Clerk of the District Court and then dispersed to the appropriate parties.

3. What happens if the Defendant fails to pay restitution?: If the Defendant fails to pay restitution, or violates other conditions of his probation, this office will file a Motion to Revoke Probation and have the case brought back before the court. The judge will hear the violations and decide what, if any, action is appropriate.

4. I feel I have a substance abuse problem and would like to get help but fear criminal charges, what can I do?

Contact a substance abuse provider or counselor for evaluation and potential treatment. Information is confidential and providers are not required to report to law enforcement.

5. I think my neighbor is distributing drugs as I have seen an excessive amount of traffic that remains for short durations, can I help to combat this problem?: Yes, please call Riley County Crimestoppers at 785-539-7777 and provide as much information to the officer as you can. All information and assistance is appreciated and necessary to combat this problem.

6. How do I reach the Crisis Center for assistance?

In Manhattan, the number is (785) 539-2785

In Junction City, the number is (785) 762-8835

Toll-Free number 1-800-727-2785

7. If I get a Protection From Abuse Order against someone, what happens if he/she violates that order?: If the person you are seeking protection from violates the order, you should call the police immediately and report it. The suspect may be arrested, and a case may be filed against them for violating the Protection From Abuse Order. You should not, however, invite the person you are seeking protection from over to your house or initiate contact. You are putting your safety in jeopardy, and you are putting that person at risk of being arrested.

8. What do I do if an ex-spouse or ex-significant other threatens me?: If you are threatened by anyone, including an ex-spouse or ex-significant other, you need to call the police right away. An officer will respond, and take a report from you about what happened. A decision will be made later about whether that person will be formally charged or not.

9. The police recovered my property, when will it be returned?: If your property is recovered by the police, it is regarded as evidence. It will be held by the Riley County Police Department until it is no longer needed as evidence. Often times a photograph can be substituted and the item returned. The assigned attorney will make that decision in consultation with the victim and police.

10. Will I be paid for my stolen/damaged property?: If the defendant is convicted, it is the policy of this office to request restitution on behalf of the victim for any stolen or damaged property. However, it is the responsibility of the victim to provide the information and supporting documentation. You can do this by completing the Victim Impact Statement in its entirety and including copies of receipts, estimates, and insurance information.

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Attorney - Diversion

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1. How should I enter my plea at my first appearance in Court?: If you have spoken to the Riley County Attorney's Office and have submitted a diversion application, enter a plea of not guilty and inform the Court that you have applied for a diversion. At that time, the Court will schedule your next appearance. If your diversion is granted and filed, you will not need to appear at the next scheduled hearing. If your diversion is denied or not finalized you will need to appear at your next scheduled court appearance.

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Attorney - Juvenile

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1. Do I need an Attorney?: Under the Kansas Juvenile Justice Code juveniles are entitled to representation by an attorney. The juvenile and his/her parents may hire their own attorney; if not, the court will appoint an attorney to represent the juvenile.

2. What is the definition of Truancy?: Children are considered truant when they have accumulated 3 consecutive unexcused absences, 5 unexcused absences in any semester, or 7 unexcused absences in any school year. The attendance officer at each school building has the discretion to determine if reasons offered by the child or his/her parents is sufficient or if the absence will be considered unexcused.

3. What is the parents' role in a juvenile proceeding?: When juveniles are charged with criminal activity, a summons and a copy of the complaint is served on the juvenile, the parents or parent having legal custody, the person with whom the juvenile is residing, or any other person designated by the County Attorney.

4. What is the procedure when a report is received from the Police Department?: Once the Riley County Police Department generates a report, the County Attorney will review the report and decide whether or not charges should be filed.

5. What services are available to parents?: When a juvenile is arrested or charged with criminal activity, they are required to participate in a Juvenile Intake Assessment through Riley County Community Corrections--Juvenile Division. Parents are encouraged to attend that assessment and provide any information to the intake worker. If needed, the family may be referred to appropriate community resources such as family and individual counseling, drug and alcohol evaluation and treatment or services offered by the Manhattan Area Department for Children and Families (DCF) office.

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Attorney - Traffic

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1. Can an arrest warrant be issued for traffic tickets?: Yes, depending on the offense. Normally on traffic infractions, if you do not pay your ticket in 30 days, a letter will automatically go out to your last known address or the address that appears on the ticket, stating that you have not paid your fine and that your license will be suspended. If you are scheduled for a court appearance for misdemeanor or felony offense and you do not show up, the judge may order a warrant for your arrest.

2. Can my speeding ticket be lowered to a non-moving violation?: Yes, at the discretion of the Riley County Attorney's Office.

3. I received a speeding ticket and do not believe that I was speeding or there was another car by me, what can I do?: Come to court on your scheduled date at the bottom of your ticket. You may plead not guilty and a trial before the Magistrate Judge will be scheduled. At trial, the officer will testify and you will have the opportunity to ask the officer questions. Then the Judge will hear your version of what happened. The Judge will then render a verdict of not guilty or guilty. Such trials usually take only 30 minutes.

4. I received a ticket for Driving While Suspended (DWS) and I did not know that my license was suspended or I thought that it was already cleared up, what can I do?

Contact the Department of Revenue, Driver Control Bureau at (785) 296-3671, to find out the status of your drivers license.

If you have proof that your license has been reinstated, bring it to the Riley County Attorney's Office or to Court on your appearance date.

5. I received a ticket for no insurance. I have insurance, but did not have my card on me, what can I do?: Bring in your proof of insurance coverage to the Riley County Attorney's Office or on your scheduled court appearance.

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Attorney - Victim / Witness

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1. Can I receive compensation for losses I suffered as a result of the crime?: Various means are available to assist you depending upon the type of loss, etc. Discuss this with the Victim/Witness Coordinator of the Riley County Attorney's Office. Not all losses are covered.

2. Should I talk to the defense attorney?: You have no legal obligation to talk to the defense attorney likewise you have no obligation to talk to the prosecuting attorney.

3. What if I am threatened as a witness?: Any attempt to prevent or dissuade a witness from testifying is a violation of the law. Report any such incident immediately to the police and the prosecuting attorney.

4. What if I move or change jobs during the proceedings?: Always notify the County Attorney's office of any changes in address or employment immediately to assist us in contacting you.

5. When can I get my property back?: All property will be released as soon as possible; however, under some circumstances, a photograph of the evidence may be substituted for the original.

6. Will I receive compensation for appearing as a witness?: By statute, you will receive $10 per day witness fees plus mileage if you were subpoenaed from out of town.

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Building

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1. Do I need a building permit to construct a fence?: Generally fences are exempt from zoning regulations and therefore do not require a permit for construction. The only possible exception to this rule would be if the fence would create a vision obstruction at a street intersection. Check with the County Zoning Officer if there is a possible concern in this regard.

2. Do I need a permit to build a structure in the unincorporated area?: A building permit is required before the start of construction of any structure within the unincorporated areas of Riley County. The permit is necessary to verify that the zoning is proper for the intended use, the required setbacks from property lines are achieved, Sanitary Code requirements are met and other basic requirements of this type. The permit does not involve construction inspection since there is no adopted building code that applies to the unincorporated areas of the County.

3. Does Riley County have building codes?: Riley County requires a building permit but has not adopted building codes. During a building permit inspection the primary concern is determining the building is set back the proper distances from all property lines. The inspector does not examine how the building is being constructed. Consult a qualified contractor or building professional regarding industry standard construction techniques and proper installation of electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems. The respective cities within the County vary regarding their building code requirements. Check with the individual city before starting construction.

4. Does Riley County notify surrounding property owners if someone has obtained, or is in the process of obtaining, a building permit?: State law requires that all property owners within 1000 feet of a rezoning, variance or conditional use request be notified of the public hearing on the matter. However, there is no such state or local requirement to notify adjacent property owners upon the issuance of a building permit. Prospective purchasers of land should always research the surrounding zoning of land to determine what sorts of uses may be permitted that may effect property values or enjoyment of the land to be purchased.

5. I am planning on building a house. Do I need a property address before I get my building permit?: Many times utility companies will require a property address prior to providing utilities to a site. The property address is assigned by Riley County Planning & Development when the building permit is issued. If you need an address prior to issuance of a building permit, contact our office and we will attempt to assist you.

6. I’m not sure where my property lines are. How do I get accurate information?: The only definitive way to determine your property lines is to have your lot or tract surveyed by a Licensed Land Surveyor. They will need to locate or establish the property survey pins at the corners of the lot or tract. If you can locate your own property corner pins, that should allow or help you and the surveyor establish the correct property lines.

7. What are the required setbacks for my property?: Building setback requirements from right-of-way or property lines vary by zoning category. Generally, all buildings must be setback from all right-of-way lines 25 feet except when abutting a major or minor traffic way (NOTE: The right-of-way line is not necessarily the edge of the pavement. The right-of-way is considerably wider than the roadway surface) Side and rear yard setbacks vary for each zoning category and by building type. To determine these requirements you should contact Planning & Development before beginning construction.

8. What should I do if I notice construction and suspect that the owner or builder did not obtain a building permit?: Occasionally the owner or builder is not aware of the building permit requirement and begins construction without a permit. If you want to know whether or not a building permit has been issued for a particular project, please contact the Planning and Development office at 785-537-6332. Please have specific information regarding the location such as address, legal description or owner of the property.

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Burn Permits

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1. Where do I get a burn permit?: You can fill out and submit the form online https://www.rileycountyks.gov/forms.aspx?FID=201 or you can call 785-537-6333 for more information.
apply online.

2. Are air curtain destructors / incinerators allowed to operate in April?: Yes, ACDs are permitted by KDHE as a special type of incinerator.

3. Are camp fires and bonfires allowed in April?: Yes, open burning for cooking or ceremonial purposes, on public or private lands regularly used for recreational purposes are allowed as long as they are conducted in a safe manner. Fires must be completely extinguished before leaving the area.

4. Are residential trash burn barrels permitted?: Yes, unless restricted by a local Fire Department.

5. Can a local fire chief override the April Burning Restrictions of K.A.R. 28-19-645a if requested by a local resident or business?: Yes, if the local ordinance is more stringent. No, when the purpose of the override is to allow something prohibited under state regulation.

6. How do I know if there are any burning restrictions?

Riley County Fire District #1 send notices about burning restrictions due to conditions using the Everbridge Emergency Notification System. We recommend everyone who has a burn permit sign up for this FREE service.

Go to Riley County Website Homepage.
On the left hand side of the screen, click on Emergency Notifications
Click on Sign Up to create an account. If you already created an account, click on Login.
Complete the required information.
Sign up for Riley County Prescribed Burning.

7. How will the April Burn Restrictions be enforced?: Primarily the local burn resolution will be enforced and prosecuted by the County Attorney at their level of discretion. KDHE also utilizes compliance assistance and public education to get the word out. If there are extenuating circumstances in a particular situation, KDHE may utilize their enforcement authority to address an egregious problem.

8. Is burning yard waste allowed at an individual residence during April?: Yes, unless restricted by a local Fire Department.

9. Is crop residue burning restricted in April?: Yes, crop residue burning is restricted for the 16 counties specified in the April Burning Restrictions of K.A.R. 28-19-645a (13 in Flint Hills + Johnson, Sedgwick & Wyandotte). Burning of the tall grass prairie is not considered crop residue burning.
K.A.R. 28-19-645a (pdf)

10. Is open burning for land clearing and construction projects allowed in April?: Not in the 13 Flint Hills Counties. In Johnson, Wyandotte and Sedgwick counties, the local authority can approve burning of trees and brush from nonagricultural land clearing and clean wood waste at the construction site; all other open burning in these counties must be approved by KDHE. In the rest of the state, KDHE must approve this burning unless local ordinance is more stringent. It is our intent to discourage nonagricultural burning during the month of April.

11. What agencies and offices are involved in regulating open burning?

1. Riley County Fire District #1

2. Manhattan Fire Department

3. City government (when applicable)

4. KDHE's District Offices and Compliance Section of the Bureau of Air

12. Where is the first place a person should call with questions concerning open burning?: Individuals should first call the local authority having jurisdiction, such as city hall or the local fire department. Industries, should contact the KDHE District Office.

13. Which agency has the final authority on regulating open burning?: The base regulations are set by the State of Kansas, more detailed regulations are set by local jurisdictions, depending on the location that can be the city or county fire department.

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Community Corrections

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1. How do I find out if someone is on probation?

If the person is an adult, their basic information (name and crime they’re convicted of) is a matter of public record.

However, since several different agencies supervise adult offenders in Riley County (Community Corrections, Court Services, Manhattan Municipal Court Services, and State Parole) finding out if someone is on supervision may take several phone calls.

If the agency you call has the person on supervision, you will be given the basic information. If they don’t, they can usually tell you which agency to call based upon the conviction you think the person may be on probation for.

2. Isn’t probation too easy and just a slap on the wrist for the criminals?

Community Corrections has supervised over 1000 adult offenders since we began operations in 1982 and rarely has any probationer said their probation was “easy”.

In fact, we’re often told we expect “too much” from probationers. For example, on our highest level of supervision, over a period of twelve months, the average probationer will have over 75 face-to-face contacts with their ISO (Intensive Supervision Officer) with about 20 of those contacts taking place outside of our office/in the community (unscheduled home visits or employment visits).

In addition, Community Corrections probationers are assigned to a random “Color Code” UA system, which requires them to call in five days a week and report for a drug test whenever their color is called.

ISO’s also monitor our probationers’ employment, if probationers are unemployed they’re required to attend our Job Club weekly until they find a job.

Finally, if an offender has been court-ordered to abide by “Special Conditions” as a part of being granted probation (obtain substance abuse or mental health evaluation, participate in any recommended treatment, refrain from contact with victims, and/or pay costs and restitution) ISO’s monitor compliance with those requirements.

If offenders fail to comply with their conditions of probation, a variety of intermediate sanctions can be imposed or violations can be reported to the Court for further action.

3. What about more specific information about sex offenders?

In a statewide effort to allow the general public more information about convicted sex offenders who reside in their communities, all sex offenders are required to register with their local law enforcement agency.

In turn, this information is available to the general public through a number of sources. You can visit the Kansas Bureau of Investigation website to learn about registered sex offenders in your community.

4. What drugs do you test probationers for?

We have the ability to provide on-site testing for 13 different drugs; including alcohol, amphetamines, barbiturates, cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, opiates and several others, with immediate results.

If a field test is positive, the sample is forwarded to a federally licensed laboratory for more extensive testing, with GC/MS confirmation available in just a few days.

We also have saliva tests and PBT’s (portable breath tests) available.

5. What is the difference between community corrections intensive supervision and regular probation?

The biggest difference is in the frequency of contact between the probationer and our staff.

In general, a probationer assigned to Community Corrections will have about four times as much contact with their officer as compared to regular probation.

In addition, Community Corrections is required to use Evidence-Based Practices (EBP) in supervising offenders assigned to our program, which have been proven to bring about positive change and help those offenders who successfully complete our program become productive, law-abiding citizens.

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District Court

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1. How can I inquire about my child support?: Pursuant to federal law, the State of Kansas has implemented a central payment system for processing of court ordered child support and maintenance.
Child support and maintenance payments should be made payable to "KANSAS PAYMENT CENTER" and mailed to the following address:
KANSAS PAYMENT CENTER

PO Box 758599

Topeka, KS 66675-8599

Please put your case number on your remittance with the county two-letter digit (RL) for Riley County to ensure proper credit. If you have questions, or would like information regarding payments through electronic funds transactions (EFT), please contact KPC customer service at 1-877-572-5722, or visit their website at kspaycenter.
Please notify the Court in writing of any address change or name change.

2. How can I obtain a copy of my marriage license?: Please wait at least two weeks after the ceremony before you request a certified copy of the marriage certificate. To request a certified copy, contact the Office of Vital Statistics at (785) 296-1400 or at their website https://www.kdheks.gov/vital/marriage_howto.html

3. How do I file a small claims petition?: Information and petitions for Small Claims filings may be found in the Riley County District Court Clerk’s Office (Room 201), Riley County Courthouse. Docket fees for claims under $500 are $47.50; claims over $500 to $4000 are $67.50. It is your responsibility to furnish the addresses of individuals being summoned to Court. If you have a complex case, or one that involves a claim over $4000, you may wish to consult an attorney regarding other forms of legal action. A separate sheriff fee for service of a small claims summons is $15.00.

4. How do I obtain a marriage license?: You may apply for a Kansas marriage license using the online portal at: https://www.kscourts.org/Public/Apply-for-Marriage-License

5. How do I obtain a protection from abuse order?

1. Before you can obtain a Protection from Abuse Order, you and the other person you want restrained must be intimate partners or household members. This means you and the person you want restrained must meet one of the following:

a.You are in a dating relationship,

b.You have been in a dating relationship in the past;

c.You are living together;

d.You have lived together in the past; or

e.You have had a child in common.

OR if you are seeking protection of a minor child, the child and the person you want restrained must be intimate partners or household members. This means the child and the person you want restrained must meet one of the above requirements. 2. Abuse must have occurred. This means that one of the following has occurred:

a. The person physically hurt or tried to hurt you or a minor child on purpose.

b. The person recently threatened to physically hurt you or a minor child.

c. The person engaged in physical conduct (touching or sexual intercourse) with a minor child under the age of 16 years of age.

3.You may file only two petitions for a Protection from Abuse Order in a 12 month period unless you are filing the petition on behalf of a minor child who has been abused.

4.You must be available to testify at future hearings as set by the Judge or in any other criminal action against the abuser. If you fail to appear, the case may be dismissed. 5.Other legal help may be available through your private attorney or legal services.

6. A final Protection from Abuse Order will expire after one year or on the date stated in the order, unless you request an extension from the court.

7. If you are the defendant and you want an order restraining the plaintiff from abuse, you must file a counter petition.

8. Please see additional information on Protection Orders here

6. How do I obtain a protection from stalking order?

1. Before you can get a Protection from Stalking Order, stalking must have occurred. Stalking is an intentional harassment of another person that places the other person in reasonable fear for that person’s safety. Harassment means a knowing and intentional course of conduct directed at a specific person that seriously alarms, annoys, torments, or terrorizes the person and that serves no legitimate purpose. Course of conduct means conduct consisting of two or more separate acts over a period of time, however short, that show a continuity of purpose, which would cause a reasonable person to suffer substantial emotional distress.

2. You may seek a Protection from Stalking Order for yourself, for your minor child, or for a minor child that lives with you.

3. You should be available to testify at future hearings as set for the judge. If you fail to appear, the case may be dismissed.

4. Legal help may be available through your private attorney or legal services.

5. A final Protection from Stalking Order will expire after one year or on the date stated in the order, unless you request an extension or modification from the court.

6. Please see additional information on Protection Orders here

7. I need to obtain information on a court case. How can I receive that information?

A. Public access computers are available at the Courthouse to access cases via a name search or by case number. Riley County District Court records are also available on the Internet: District Court Public Access Portal.

B. Courts in Kansas will not do any searches by phone.

C. Requests for criminal record searches for employment, credit, etc. from any agency or individual shall be referred to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation at (785) 296-8200 (Records Department) per Supreme Court Administrative Order No. 156.

D. No district court employee may conduct a search which requires making legal determination such as whether a judgment is still current or that lien exists per K.S.A. 20-3133.

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Driver's License

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1. What drivers' license/ ID card services can I receive at the Treasurer's Office?

Customers who hold a CDL, a concealed and carry permit, a registered offender endorsement or limited term endorsement must visit a full service driver's license office for all services. The nearest full service is located at 8200 South Port Drive, Suite 105, Manhattan, KS 66502. This office is by appointment only CLICK HERE

Our office can renew Kansas driver's license, apply or renew an I.D. card, make address changes. We can also issue a Kansas driver's license to those with a current out of state driver's license.

2. What are the hours for getting a driver's license?: Monday through Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

3. What do I do if I did not receive a renewal for a driver's license and it is time for me to renew?

Please bring your current driver's license and a proof of address to the Treasurer's Office for renewal.

Acceptable forms of proof of address:

These documents establish your Kansas residency and residential address. You must present a document that shows your current name and Kansas residential ad- dress. A P.O. Box will not be accepted as proof or resident address.

If a minor child does not have a proof of address included in this list their parent, step-parent or legal guardian can complete a Certification of Address by providing two proofs of address along with identification.

Kansas DL or ID renewal postcard
Current Kansas vehicle registration or title
Utility bill or equivalent no more than two months old
Financial institution such as a bank statement, deed or mortgage
Rent or lease agreement
Kansas Voter Registration Card
Current auto, life or homeowners insurance bill with applicant’s name and address
Current educational transcript/school grade card
Current professional license by a U.S. agency
Current W-2 or 1099
Mail from a federal, state, county or city agency
Department of Corrections Certificate of Identification

4. Can I renew my driver's license in the Treasurer's Office if it has expired?: We can renew it, if the license has not been expired for more than a year. If it has been more than a year, please go to the full service drivers license office at 8200 Southport Dr, Suite 105, Manhattan. The telephone number 785-537-2140. Appointments are required CLICK HERE

5. Can I get a driver's license from your office if I have never had a license before?: No. Please contact the full service station at 8200 Southport Dr, Suite 105, Manhattan. The telephone number is 785-537-2140.

6. How can I renew my license if I am in the military and not stationed in the U.S.?: Call the Kansas Department of Revenue at 785-296-3963 .

7. Where do I call if my driver's license has been suspended?: You need to call Driver's Control 785-296-3671 or visit their office located at Zibell Building, 300 SW 29th Street, Topeka, KS 66611. They will explain to you what you need to do to get your license back. You will need to know your driver's license number and your date of birth.

8. Where do I call if I have a vision or medical question regarding my driver's license?: You call the Kansas Department of Revenue at 785-296-3601.

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Emergencies

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1. Can I receive emergency notifications?: Yes! Riley County uses the Everbridge NE Kansas Notification System for messages.
Sign Up For Emergency Notifications

2. Where are the public tornado shelters in Riley County?: There are no public tornado shelters in Riley County. Local Mobile Home Parks are required to have tornado shelters for their residents. For tornado safety rules, click HERE

3. Where do I go when the outdoor warning sirens sound?: Move to a substantial structure and tune to a local radio station or cable TV channel for information on the warning.

4. Why do the outdoor warning sirens sound on the first Monday of every month?: Riley County Emergency Management and Riley County Police Department Dispatch Center test the outdoor warning sirens each month (on the first Monday at 10:30 AM) to make sure the sirens will function when needed. The time and date are so the local schools can coordinate their Tornado Drills with the monthly tests.

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Environmental Health

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1. Does Riley County have a Sanitary Code?: Yes, the present code was adopted Feb. 20, 2020 by Resolution 02202020-07.

2. Do I need a Septic Permit to build in Riley County?: Yes, if water is run into a structure a septic permit is required under article 4, section 1-4.1 of the Sanitary Code.

3. Is my system grandfathered in and does it have to meet Sanitary Code requirements?: Under Article 5, Section 2-5.4, any premise which does not contain a lawful private wastewater disposal system is subject to all restrictions and requirements of the Sanitary Code.

4. I want to sell my property, how do I obtain a septic and water evaluation for the site?: You can obtain the form on the Riley County Website under Planning and Development, Environmental Health, Applications, Environmental Evaluation Application or at the Riley County Planning and Development, Environmental Health, Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm.
Environmental Evaluation Application (pdf)

5. Do I need a well permit to drill a water well on my property?: Yes, under Chapter III, Article 3, you need to make application for a permit and then it must be approved before you can use the water. You can obtain the form on the Riley County Website under Planning and Development, Environmental Health, Applications, Private Water Well Supply application or at the Riley County Planning and Development, Environmental Health, Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm.
Private Water Well Supply Application (pdf)

6. Can I get my well water tested locally?: Yes, the Environmental Health section of Planning and Development has a staffed on-site laboratory for testing bacterial and some chemical contaminates in well water.

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Fire District #1

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1. How can I become a volunteer firefighter in Riley County?

You must be 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license and be able to pass a drug screen and background check.

Applications to become a volunteer fire fighter with Riley County Fire District #1 at

application

2. What is the volunteer fire fighter application process?: After someone has filled out an application, an interview will be held, and if offered a conditional position and station assignment, the applicant will be required to take a pre-employment drug test. Once the drug tests results are received, successful applicants will begin training.

3. How do I find out my fire insurance rating?

Your insurance company is the one that determines the insurance rating (sometimes referred to as ISO rating) for all properties.

Normally, if a property is within 5 road miles of a fire station that meets the ISO rating system, that property is rated lower than a “10”. A “10” rating indicates a lack of adequate fire protection that could respond in a timely fashion. Most properties in the county are rated a “9” and properties within 1000’ of a municipal fire hydrant are generally rated a “7/9”.

This map shows most of the rural residences and their proximity to the nearest fire station using all-weather roads.

Disclaimer: The information contained on this map was derived using road records showing “approved” surface types for Emergency Response purposes and their traversable distance from a rural fire station. Roads designated as “trail”, “undeveloped” or “unimproved” are not considered approved surface types. No guarantee is given as to the accuracy of the depicted surface type of a road. If you have questions about an ISO rating, please contact your insurance provider.

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Floodplain

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1. How do I determine if my property is within a floodplain?: The Riley County Planning & Development Department has maps produced by the Federal Emergency Management Agency that indicate where the floodplains are for all of the unincorporated area of the County. For assistance in determining flood risk on a particular property, please contact Planning and Development at 785-537-6332

2. Can I build within the 500-year floodplain?: The 500-year floodplain is the area that could experience a flood having a .2% probability of occurring in any given year. It is an area that is not regulated by floodplain regulations and therefore building is permitted provided all other requirements of the County Zoning & Subdivision Regulations are met. One should always keep in mind that any area, even those outside of designated floodplains, can still flood. Even though the probability of such occurrences in these areas is generally lower, there can always be micro events and unusual circumstances that may occur to cause localized flooding of any property. For more information about the floodplain, please contact Planning and Development at (785) 537-6332

3. Can I build within the 100-year floodplain?: The 100-year floodplain represents a potential flood area that has a 1% probability of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. It is the area that is regulated by floodplain regulations as required by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Generally, you can build in the 100-year floodplain if the floor of the structure is elevated one foot above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). Commercial & industrial structures have the option of being flood-proofed. All construction within the 100-year floodplain requires a Floodplain Development Permit before construction begins. For more information about the floodplain, please contact Planning and Development at (785) 537-6332

4. Can I build within the floodway?: The floodway is the area within the 100-year floodplain that must remain unobstructed to carry the 100-year flood discharge (i.e. Base Flood). Generally, it is very difficult to construct any structure within the floodway because the structure must be determined, by an engineer not to obstruct flood flows in any way or create a substantial rise in the base flood elevation. These are very difficult standards to meet except in cases of very limited obstructions such as poles, fence posts, etc. For more information on the methodology that must be used to determine this no-rise in flood heights, please contact Planning and Development at (785) 537-6332

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Hazardous Waste

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1. What types of materials can I bring to the Household Hazardous Waste facility?: The following are examples of the types of waste that you may bring to the HHW facility for disposal or recycling: Paints of all kinds including both latex and oil base, all pesticides including herbicides and insecticides, lacquers, thinners, stains, paint removers and adhesives, used motor oil and oil filters, household cleaners, spot and stain removers, fertilizers, waxes and polishes, all batteries including household and car batteries (excluding car batteries for electric cars), gas, solvents and antifreeze, florescent light bulbs, aerosols, old prescriptions (no controlled medicines, nor sharps accepted) Miscellaneous: roofing tar, sealers, photo chemicals, pool chemicals, mercury and smoke detectors

2. What can I get for FREE from your ReUse Shelves?: Well, we always seem to have plenty of paint and stains -- and sometimes we have… Sunscreen -- Shoe Cleaner – Bug Spray -- Oven Cleaner -- and all kinds of goodies!! Just stop out whenever you’d like, as you never know what you might come across that you can use. Sometimes the shelves aren’t so full, and sometimes they are packed: Just depends on what the public brings to us that can be safely put out on the reuse shelf! We do ask that people limit themselves to 5 items per visit so there is plenty of free stuff to go around!

3. Can I throw my old latex paint in the trash?: Latex paint is considered non-hazardous by EPA standards, but you cannot throw it in the trash if it is still in a liquid form. Instead, bring it to the HHW facility and we will recycle it for its intended use. Latex paint that is hard or has dried up in the container may be disposed of in the trash.

4. I live or have a business in a county next to Riley County, can I bring my Household Hazardous Waste to your facility?

Although Riley County is the host county for the Big Lakes Regional Household Hazardous Waste Program, we ask that you take household hazardous waste to your home county. They are staffed to support you, where we are staffed to receive HHW from Riley County residents only. We support other counties within our region by picking up their materials once they have prepared them for us to take for disposal.

The eleven counties we serve are: Clay, Dickinson, Geary, Marion, Marshall, Morris, Nemaha, Pottawatomie, Riley, Wabaunsee and Washington counties.

Some of those counties do accept Business Waste as well, so we ask businesses to take it to your home county. However, if your county does not take business waste and are one of the eleven counties in our region, we can take business waste from you but must be pre-approved by your home county and our facility before we can accept any waste, as there will be a charge. Call us at 785-539-3202 with questions.

5. If my business is located in Riley County, can I bring my business waste to the HHW facility for disposal?: Yes, you may, as long as your business is a conditionally exempt small quantity generator (generates less than 55 lbs of hazardous waste per month) or a Kansas small quantity generator (generates 55 lbs or greater, but less than 220 lbs per month of hazardous waste). There will be a fee for disposal.

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Health Department

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1. Where is WIC offered?

We staff two full-time clinics:

Manhattan at the Family and Child Resource Center, 2101 Claflin Road, 785-776-4779 ext. 7661
Fort Riley at Irwin Army Community Hospital, 650 Huebner Road, 785-740-7109

WIC staff also conduct mobile WIC sites at the following locations:

Wamego in the First Baptist Church, 1911 Grandview Drive

Additional Info...

2. Do I need an appointment?: Appointments are necessary for clinic services and WIC.

3. Are there fees for services at the health department?: Since we have many programs with different fee situations, please contact the program you are interested in for specific information.

4. Do I need proof of income to qualify for services?: Some services require pay stubs or other items as proof of income. Please check with the services you are interested in to be sure.

5. Can insurance be billed for clinic services?: For some services, yes. The primary insurances we bill include KanCare, Blue Cross, Aetna, Medicare Part B and United Health Care. We bill insurances for immunizations and flu shots but Tricare Prime/Standard will not pay the full amount at the health department, clients will be billed for remainder amounts. The Health Department accepts all KanCare Managed Care Organizations, Amerigroup, Sunflower State, and United Health Care. Health Department is not a Tricare Provider. If you have further questions, please ask us at 785-776-4779 Ext 7600.

6. Where can I get a list of child care providers?

If you're searching for child care check out the Raising Riley List
of providers currently working with Raising Riley scholarship children
Check out Child Care Aware for Resource and Referral

7. How do I make a complaint about a in home day care, center, preschool, drop-in program or school age program?: The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) contracts with local/county health departments to provide local regulatory services including complaint investigations of regulated or illegal child care. Please call the child care licensing surveyor at (785)776-4779 extension 7604.

8. Can you help me get a child care scholarship?: In order to qualify for a child care scholarship you must meet certain guidelines outlined in the application. The child care scholarship application is available on the Raising Riley website or by contacting Raising Riley at 785-776-4779 extension 7634.

9. How do I know if I need to get a food service license?: Contact Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

10. How do I make a complaint about food safety?: Contact Kansas Department of Health and Environment at 785-564-6767 or via their online reporting at http://www.foodsafetykansas.org.

11. How do I make a complaint about a sewer system?: You may call the County's Environmental Health Specialist at 785-537-6332, extension 7505.
Additional Info...

12. When do I need a septic system inspection?: When you are contemplating buying or selling a house or when you suspect there are problems with your septic system.

13. Which services are in the Health Department building?: Administration, Emergency Preparedness, Reproductive Health Services including sexually transmitted disease testing and treatment, birth control methods , HIV/AIDS Case Management, Adult and Child Immunizations, Travel Immunizations, Communicable Disease investigation and follow-up, Tb skin test.
Facility Info...

14. What services are in the Family and Child Resource Center?: Health Department services in the Resource Center include WIC (2nd Floor), Maternal and Child Health (2nd floor), Raising Riley (1st floor), and Child Care Licensing (1st floor). USD 383 Parents as Teachers Playgroup is located on the 1st floor. Some Administrative Offices for Riley County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are located on the 1st floor.
Facility Info...

15. Who qualifies for Family Planning services at the Health Department?: Anyone can access our Family Planning services. Fees are charged according to a sliding scale and persons at or below 100% of federal poverty guidelines are not charged.

16. Are Family Planning services confidential for minors?: Yes, Family Planning services at the Health Department are confidential for everyone, including minors. Parental consent is not required.

17. What does it mean to be a “mandated reporter” for child abuse and neglect?: According to Kansas law, whenever certain professionals have reason to suspect that a person under age 18 has been injured as a result of neglect or physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, the professional is required by law to report it. These professionals include teachers, nurses, social workers, law enforcement officers, licensed child care providers, counselors, and others.

18. Does the Health Department provide school entry physicals?: Only in August and September of each year by appointment.

19. Where do you have blood pressure clinics?

We hold monthly clinics as follows:

Randolph Senior Center - First Monday of the month 11am - 12pm
Riley Senior Center - First Wednesday of the month 10:30 - 11:30 am
Leonardville Senior Center - Second Thursday of the month 12:45 - 1:30 pm

20. When can I get a flu vaccination?: Generally, we have flu vaccine available beginning sometime in September. We will announce details of availability on this website and on our phones system.

21. Do you have travel immunizations?: Yes, we offer most travel vaccines but we generally have to order them. Check with us one month before you plan to travel!

22. Am I expected to pay for services at the time of my visit?: If your visit carries a client charge, you are generally expected to pay what you can at the time of the visit. A few special services at our clinic, such as travel vaccinations, require full payment before service is provided.

23. Can the health department help me resolve a housing issue related to mold?

The health department has no authority to mandate mold remediation in housing or business and does not provide air monitoring or mold remediation services. There are private firms that do that. Mold is an irritant and allergen for many people. The greatest deterrent to mold is to remove moisture. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment Bureau of Environmental Health website www.kdheks.gov has strategies to help make homes safe and healthy.

Questions related to mold and building inspections in Manhattan can be directed to the City of Manhattan Code Services at (785) 587-4506 or [email protected].

24. Where do I find information about the Riley County Sanitary Code?: You may visit the County Environmental Health page or call the County's Environmental Health Specialist at (785) 537-6332, extension 7505.

25. Where do I find information about well water testing?: You may visit the County Environmental Health page or call the County's Environmental Health Specialist at (785) 537-6332, ext 7505.

26. Where do I find information about the construction of new private wastewater disposal system and the repair of the existing system?: You may visit the County Environmental Health page or call the County's Environmental Health Specialist at (785) 537-6332, extension 7505.

27. Where can I find inspection results for food establishments?

The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) is responsible for food safety inspections of food establishments, food processors and lodging establishments. Food establishments include restaurants, grocery stores, convenience stores, schools, senior meal sites, mobile food units and food operations in lodging establishments.

Inspection results after August 4, 2015 can be found online (link).

For inspection results prior to August 4, 2015 are also available online (link) at the KDA website.

28. Where can I find inspection results for a licensed child care facility?: You can search for inspection results for a licensed child care facility on the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) website (link). For an example of a facility report with inspection results visit the KDHE website (link).

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Human Resources

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1. Where can I find a list of open positions at Riley County?: Please visit our Career Portal to see open positions and submit an application.

2. How do I apply for an open position with Riley County?: Submit an application and current resume to the Riley County Career Portal.

3. Where do I apply for a job with the Health Department?: The Health Department is part of Riley County. Current job openings are listed in our Career Portal.

4. Where do I apply for a job with Riley County EMS/Ambulance?: Riley County EMS/Ambulance is part of Riley County. Current job openings are listed in our Career Portal.

5. Can I send a resume for an open position that is listed?: No, Riley County requires an application be completed before employment will be considered. Please refer to our career portal for important information concerning employment applications.

6. Who do I contact about wage & hour issues?: Please call the Kansas Department of Labor & Wage at (785) 296-5000 (Topeka, Kansas)
Kansas Department of Labor

7. Where do I apply for a job with the Riley County Police Department?: Inquiries concerning open positions with the Riley County Police Department should be directed to their Human Resource Division at (785) 537-2112.
RCPD Employment Info

8. Where do I apply for a job with the City of Manhattan or for the Sunset Zoo?: Please contact the City of Manhattan at (785) 587-2446.
City of Manhattan Jobs

9. How do I apply to be a volunteer fire fighter?

Riley County Fire District #1 is part of Riley County. Current job openings, including volunteer firefighter positions, are listed in our career portal.

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Jury Duty

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1. How is it determined if someone is eligible to be a juror in Riley County?: You must be 18 years of age, a citizen, and a resident of Riley County in order to be eligible to serve on jury duty.

2. How am I chosen for jury duty?: You are chosen through driver's license and voter's registration.

3. Is there an age limit for persons serving on jury duty?: There is no age limit. It depends on a person's circumstances and health.

4. How many times can a juror be summoned for jury duty?: A juror, who is determined eligible, is scheduled for a three-month period. A juror can be called in as many times as necessary during that three-month period. If the juror is chosen to serve on a jury panel, that juror is excused for one year following their jury service.

5. How do I go about getting excused from jury duty?: If a juror has received a summons and is requesting to be excused from serving, that juror must contact the Jury Coordinator and advise of the reason why they are not able to report. That request is then given to the Judge, who determines whether or not that juror should be excused. Once the Jury Coordinator receives the request back from the Judge, the Jury Coordinator will contact that juror to advise if they have been excused or not.

6. Are students exempt from serving on jury duty?: Students are not exempt from serving on jury duty. If a student receives a summons, that student should check to see if they have a conflict, and if so, contact the Jury Coordinator and request to be excused.

7. Where do I report for jury duty at the Riley County District Court?: The Riley County District Court is located at 100 Courthouse Plaza, Manhattan, Kansas. The Courthouse is located between 4th and 5th Streets on Poyntz. There is parking available for jurors around the Courthouse. A free municipal parking lot is located north of the Courthouse on Humboldt Street. Also, there is parking behind the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce on Houston Street, or the parking lot behind the Courthouse. Please report to Pam Clark in Room 304, located on the Third Floor of the Courthouse, at the date and time indicated on your Jury Summons. Please make sure to call the telephone number on your Jury Summons the night before to verify if you have to report or not the following day.

8. What happens when I report for jury duty?: After you are checked in, you will have a seat in the Jury Room and wait to go into Court. When the jurors are all called to go into the Courtroom, you will begin Voir Dire, which is the jury questioning process. Once Voir Dire has been completed, you will know whether or not you have been chosen to serve on the jury panel. If you are chosen, you will serve for the remainder of the trial. If you are not chosen, you are excused until you receive another Jury Summons. After the panel has been chosen, you begin the trial at that time. When a juror receives a Jury Summons, that juror is reporting for a jury trial that is being held that day.

9. Must my employer pay me while serving on jury duty?: Your employer is not required to pay you while on jury duty; however, law prohibits employers from firing an employee who is serving on jury duty.

10. Who do I contact with questions about jury duty?: Please call (785) 565-6662

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Motor Vehicle

Show All Answers

1. What are your office hours?

The office is open Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

The office stops taking the following transactions at 4:00 pm:

New title transactions
driver's license transactions
commercial vehicle transactions.

To make an appointment please click below.

2. Where are you located?: The titling and renewing of vehicle registrations are done at the Riley County Treasurer’s Office located at the Riley County Office Building, 110 Courthouse Plaza, Manhattan KS 66502.

3. How much will it cost to register my vehicle?

The fees to register a vehicle could include registration, property tax, sales tax, and other state-mandated fees.

Please contact our office at 785-537-6320 for more information.

For an estimate on property tax Click Here: Vehicle Property Tax and Fee Estimator

Vehicle Property Tax and Fee Estimator

4. How can I pay for my tags?

Renewal Options:

1. In-person

Acceptable forms of payment are cash, check, credit card, money order, and cashier's check. There is a 2.50% convenience fee if using a debit or credit card.

If you are registering your car for the first time, you must do so in person. However, if you are renewing your car registration you can pay online.

Please make an appointment by clicking the button below:

2. Online at iKan.ks.gov

Pin number located on the renewal notice
1. To Reprint your renewal notice http://mvs.dmv.kdor.ks.gov/PrintRenewals/
Convenience Fee applied
1. $2.00 for e-Check /per vehicle plus $1.00 Fee
2. 2.5% of the amount charged plus $2.00 Fee
You can use this for current or past due renewals
You may drive up to 10 days with the receipt as you wait for the registration and decals to be mailed to you

3. By Mail

Mail to Riley County Treasurer, 110 Courthouse Plaza, Manhattan, KS 66502
Include renewal notice, proof of insurance, and payment
Military personnel be sure to include the following:
1. Military Affidavit (https://www.rileycountyks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/103/Military-Personnel-Affidavit?bidId=)
2. Current full month LES
3. Current orders, ERB or ORB

4. Place in the drop box located at 110 Courthouse Plaza

1. Include renewal notice. proof of insurance and payment

2. Military personnel be sure to include the following:

1.Military Affidavit (https://www.rileycountyks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/103/Military-Personnel-Affidavit?bidId=)

2. Current full month LES

3. Current orders, ERB or ORB

5. Do my tags expire on the first day or the last day of the month?

Auto, truck, and motorcycle tags expire on the last day of each month based on the first letter of your name or business. Heavy trucks (over 12,000 pounds) and trailers expire on December 31^st but have until the last day of February to complete the renewal process.

Click to see the Renewal Chart Month Renewal Chart

Month Renewal Chart

6. What papers will I need to title a newly-purchased vehicle?: You will need the title or MSO (if it's a new car), signed over to you, the sales tax receipt or bill of sale, the car's current mileage, and your proof of insurance. This must be done within 60 days of purchase. When transferring a tag between two cars, you need the current registration or tag number of the old car.

7. How can I renew my tags if I didn't get a renewal notice in the mail?

To reprint your renewal notice click on the link below:

https://mvs2.dmv.kdor.ks.gov/printrenewals/

You can renew in person, by placing it in our dropbox or online. If you cannot print the renewal notice bring the license plate number and proof of insurance into the office and we will be able to look up the information to complete the renewal.

Take your registration or tag number and insurance card to the Riley County Treasurer's Office, and they will be able to process your renewal.

Please make an appointment by clicking the button below:

8. I'm moving to Kansas from another state; how do I register my vehicle?

If you have the title, you need to bring in the title, the vehicle inspection, the registration from where it is currently registered, and proof of insurance.

The person who is named on the title is the only person who can register the vehicle.

If two names appear on the title with “and/or” between the names, only one person has to come in.

If two names are on the title with “and” between them, both persons must come in.

All vehicles coming from out of state must have a VIN inspection from the inspector in our lobby. The cost is $20.00 in cash.

If you do not have a title due to having a lien/loan on it, you will need to contact your lender to have them mail the original paper title to the Riley County Treasurer's Office located at 110 Courthouse Plaza, Manhattan KS, 66502.

You will then need to come to the Riley County Treasurer's Office with your out-of-state registration and your proof of insurance.

You will have to pay $20.00 in cash for a VIN inspection.

Your title will then become a Kansas Electronic Title.

9. Where can I get my vehicle inspected, and during what hours?

All out-of-state titles for used vehicles require inspection. The fee is $20.00 CASH ONLY and can be done in the lobby of the Riley County Office Building, 110 Courthouse Plaza, Manhattan KS.

Hours are:

• Tuesday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm

• Wednesday 8:00 am to 2:00 pm

• Thursday 8:00 am to 2:00 pm

A designee will also be at the Riley County Office Building Tuesdays from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm to do Out of State Titles with Rebuilt Salvage Branding, Non-Highway title, and Salvage title inspections.

10. Why aren't my tags good for a full year?: Tag renewals are good for a full year. Tags for vehicles bought new within the year will be good for the period between the purchase date and the expiration date; in some cases this will be for just a partial year. Tags are prorated from the month the title is dated until the month your tag comes due, which is determined by your last name.

11. Do I have to register my vehicle if I am going to sell it?: Yes. You first have to acquire a title in your name before it can be sold to another individual or business.

12. I own businesses in several counties in Kansas. Where do I register my vehicle?: Business vehicles should be registered in the business name in the county where the business is located. Personal vehicles should be registered in the county where the person resides.

13. Can I get an extension on my sixty-day permit?: No. There are no extensions.

14. My tag was stolen. What do I do?: You will need to report the plate stolen to the Riley County Police Department. Bring the tag number and current insurance card, and we will replace the tag for $3.00.

15. How do I get a personalized tag?: You will need to come to the office to check the availability of the wording. If available we will order the plate for $45.50, plus registration, personal property taxes and any other applicable fees.

16. Do I have to get a Kansas driver's license if I have Kansas plates?: Not if you are a student or active duty military stationed at Fort Riley.

17. What will happen if I have delinquent taxes?: If you have delinquent personal property taxes in ANY county in Kansas, they MUST be paid before we can perform ANY motor vehicle transactions for you.

18. Where can I get a power of attorney / lienholder consent / bill of sale, etc.?

These tag forms and many others are available on the Riley County Website under motor vehicle forms.

https://www.rileycountyks.gov/707/Motor-Vehicle-Forms

Kansas County Treasurer's Association...

19. Can I get a refund if I move out of Kansas?

Yes. Mail the license plate, Kansas owners’ registration, copy of new states' driver's license, new states’ vehicle registration and the completed Out of State Refund form. Property tax will be refunded based on the remaining full months of registration. The refund will be calculated based on when we receive all documentation. Checks are mailed the next business day after applying for the refund.

Out of State Refund Form (pdf)

20. How can I get a refund if I sell my car and what forms will I need?

Drop off (drop box) or mail your license plate, current owner's registration, and the completed In-State Refund form. The refund will be calculated based on when we receive all documentation. Checks are mailed the next business day after applying for the refund.

In-State Refund Form (pdf)

In State Refund Form (pdf)

21. I am in the military. Am I exempt from personal property taxes?

Military personnel not claiming Kansas as their home state of record are usually exempt from paying personal property taxes on their vehicles. The title may be in the name of the military personnel, the spouse, or both.

Military personnel claiming Kansas as their home state of record are allowed an exemption from paying personal property taxes on no more than two (2) vehicles. The name of the military personnel must be on the title of the vehicle(s) claiming the exemption.

To view the exemption qualifications click here Military Personnel Affidavit

Leased vehicles do not qualify for the military exemption. The legal owner of a leased vehicle is the leasing company, therefore, does not qualify for the personal property exemption.

Military Personnel Affidavit

22. I am in the military but a Kansas resident. Do I pay taxes on my vehicle?: Kansas military can be exempt on not more than 2 vehicles. See Military Personnel Affidavit for qualifications for exemption.

23. I am active duty military, but the vehicle is in my spouse's name. Do I have to pay taxes of the vehicle.: No. The service member's spouse is now also eligible to receive the property tax exemption. We must see a current full month LES, orders, and a completed military affidavit.

24. Why do I pay taxes on my leased vehicle when I'm in the military?: The leased vehicle is in the leasing company name; therefore, they are the legal owner of the vehicle and not exempt.

25. What do I need to know about transferring a tag from one vehicle to another?: The fee to transfer is $20.50 plus the difference in the property tax plus sales tax if applicable. The names on the two titles must be the same. If the old license plate is expired it can only be transferred if it is a personalized plate or a specialty plate. If this is your renewal month, your fees will be the same as a new license plate minus the $0.50 plate fee. The old vehicle must be sold or traded in, even if it is not running. As long as the title is still in your name, the plate must stay with the vehicle.

26. What is the Kansas State Parks Passport?: The Kansas State Parks Passport is a way for Kansas residents to buy an annual park permit at a reduced price and with the convenience of buying it when they register their vehicles. The Passport makes it convenient and affordable for Kansans to enjoy our 25 state parks, for families to reconnect with nature and each other, and help preserve the parks for future generations. Families can enjoy a whole year of outdoor fun for less than the cost of treating the family to a night at the movies. Kansas State Parks Passport FAQs
Kansas State Parks Passport FAQs

27. How can I renew my disabled placard?

You must complete the Kansas Disabled Parking Certificate (https://www.ksrevenue.org/pdf/tr159a.pdf) and return it to the Riley County Treasurer’s office.

Mail to 110 Courthouse Plaza, Manhattan KS 66502
Dropbox located in front of the Riley County Office Building, 110 Courthouse Plaza, Manhattan, KS
In-person Riley County Treasurer’s Office 110 Courthouse Plaza, Manhattan KS

The law requires re-certification every five years for verification of the status of the disabled individual.

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Motor Vehicle Escrow

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1. Will my car tags be automatically renewed if I use the Motor Vehicle Escrow program?: No. You will have to come into the office or renew your tags by mail. If renewing by mail, call our office to get the balance in your escrow account. You are responsible for the difference if there is a shortage.

2. Can I change the amount that I am paying each month?: Yes. You can send in any amount you want. If you are using the bank draft option, contact our office prior to the 10th of the month to change your payment.

3. What types of transactions can I pay with the money in my account?: You can use your escrow account to pay for any type of motor vehicle transaction. This does not include drivers license renewals.

4. Is there a cost for participating in the program?: No. There is no cost to participate in the motor vehicle escrow program.

5. Can I stop the program at any time?: Yes. You can stop making payments into your account at any time. If you request a refund of your account you may not get back into the program for a year.

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Noxious Weed

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1. What can I do to get rid of the dandelions blooming in my yard?: When dandelions are blooming in the spring, it's already too late to get effective control with herbicides. The best control at this time is hand digging. Dandelions are a winter annual that germinate in the fall, winter over, and produce seed in the spring. A chemical application of 2,4-D in the fall will give nearly 100 percent control.

2. What weeds are considered noxious in Riley County?: There are five weeds declared noxious which are located in Riley County: Musk Thistle, Field Bindweed, Johnsongrass, Hoary Cress and Sericea Lespedeza.

3. Can I purchase brush herbicides from the weed department?: No, Riley County can only sell herbicides for noxious weed control. We can make recommendations, but you must purchase the herbicides from your local dealer.

4. Do I need an applicator's license to purchase chemicals for noxious weed control?: You only need a license to apply a restricted use pesticide (RUP). The only RUP that we sell is Tordon 22K. You must have a private applicator license to apply Tordon, but you may purchase the product and have a commercial applicator apply it for you if you are not licensed.

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Parks

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1. How do I make reservations for Keats Park?: Reservations can be made by calling the Riley County Park Division at (785) 539-2981.

2. Where do I pick up a key for Keats park?: The key can be picked up at 6215 Tuttle Creek Blvd. from 7:30am to 4:00 pm on the day before your scheduled activity. If you are using the facility on a weekend, you must pick up the key before 4:00 pm on Friday.

3. What are county park use regulations?

The following rules and regulations apply to all county parks:

No liquor or cereal malt beverages.
No motorized vehicles or horses except in parking areas.
No firearms or hunting.
No tree cutting.
No fires except in areas provided.

4. How much does it cost to rent the building and shelter at Keats Park?

We offer this facility at no charge. Users are asked to help with the following:

Empty trash can inside building and remove all trash to dumpster at south end of parking area.
Sweep and mop any spills.
Lock doors when leaving.
Return key to 6215 Tuttle Creek Blvd. on the next working day.

5. What parks and facilities are maintained by Riley County?

Parks Maintained by the Park Division: CiCo Park, Wildcat Park, Keats Park, K177 Overlook Park, Rocky Ford Recreation Area, and Fairmont Park.
Grounds Maintained Wholly or in Part by the Park Division: County Shops, Transfer Station, Genealogical Library, Courthouse Plaza, Pottorf Hall, Fairgrounds and Arena, and Health Department/Family and Child Resource Center.
Community Parks that Receive County Assistance: Riley City, Randolph City, Leonardville City, Leonardville Baseball Field, Ogden City, and University Park.

6. What items are available in the building at Keats Park?: Items available for use at Keats Park in the building are: tables (8), chairs (40), microwave, refrigerator, sinks, and restroom facilities.

7. What are the reservation policies for the ball diamond at Keats Park?

The ball diamond may be reserved as follows:

Maximum of 1 1/2 hours per reservation can be scheduled with start times of 5:30 p.m. or 7:00 p.m. (weekend reservations are not restricted to these hours).
Department personnel will drag the infield prior to games when possible. If further preparation is required, the team will be responsible.
There is a charge for a minimum of 2 hours for lining at $15.00 per hour.

8. Can I reserve shelters at CiCo Park?: No. We do not reserve shelters or picnic tables at CiCo Park, they are on a first come, first serve basis.

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Personal Property

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1. What is personal property?: Personal property is "...every tangible thing which is the subject of ownership, not forming part or parcel of real property". [K.S.A. 79-102]

2. What personal property is taxable?

By law, all property in this state, not expressly exempt, is subject to taxation. [K.S.A. 79-101]

It provides funding for local services such as roads, parks, and fire protection.

3. How is personal property appraised?: All personal property, except certain motor vehicles and commercial/industrial machinery and equipment, is appraised at "market value" as of the first day of January each year.

4. How is personal property classified and assessed in Kansas?

Article 11, Section 1 of The Kansas Constitution provides that: Tangible personal property shall be classified into six subclasses and assessed uniformly by subclass at the following assessment percentages:

Mobile homes used for residential purposes...11½%
Mineral leasehold interests except oil leasehold interests the average daily production from which is five barrels or less, and natural gas leasehold interests the average daily production from which is 10 mcf or less, which shall be assessed at 25%...30%
Public utility tangible personal property including inventories thereof, except railroad personal property, including inventories thereof, which shall be assessed at the average rate all other commercial and industrial property is assessed...33%
All categories of motor vehicles not defined and specifically valued and taxed pursuant to law enacted prior to 1985...30%
Commercial and industrial machinery and equipment which, if its economic life is seven years or more, shall be valued at its retail cost when new less seven-year straight-line depreciation, or which, if its economic life is less than seven years, shall be valued at its retail cost when new less straight-line depreciation over its economic life, except that, the value so obtained for such property, notwithstanding its economic life and, as long as such property is being used, shall not be less than 20% of the retail cost when new of such property...25%
All other tangible personal property not otherwise specifically classified...30%

State-assessed and beyond the scope of this publication. Information in this publication does not apply to state assessed property. This classification is only applicable to non-highway titled motor vehicles and motor vehicles operated over 12,000 pounds on public roads. Motor vehicles operated under 12,000 pounds on public roads and "recreational vehicles" are appraised, assessed and taxed pursuant to statue (Kansas 79-5100 series).

5. What does the county appraiser do?: By law, the county appraiser is responsible for listing and valuing property in a uniform and equal manner. The appraiser determines the appropriate value of the property within the county.

6. How does the county appraiser discover taxable personal property?: Owners of personal property are required by law to list their property as of the first day of January each year with the county appraiser.

7. Who needs to list personal property for taxation?: KSA 79-303 states "Every person, association, company or corporation who owns or holds, subject to his or her control, any taxable personal property is required by law to list the property for assessment." See Chart

8. Who must sign the personal property rendition?: By law, every person, association, company, or corporation required to list property must personally sign the rendition. In addition, if a tax preparer completes the rendition, the preparer must also sign and certify that the information is true and correct. [K.S.A. 79-306]

9. When and where does a taxpayer file a rendition?

K.S.A. 79-306 requires all taxable personal property to be listed, by the taxpayer, on a rendition (also referred to as a 'statement of personal property') and filed with the county appraiser on or before March 15th of each year, or the next following business day, if such date falls on a day other than a regular business day.

The county appraiser may extend the March 15th deadline if the taxpayer submits a request in writing, stating just and adequate reasons for the extension, and is received by the county appraiser on or before the March 15th due date, April 1st for oil and gas renditions. (K.S.A. 79-1422, K.S.A. 79-332a, and K.S.A. 79-1457)

10. Personal Property Filing Penalties

By law, all tangible personal property subject to taxation must be listed and assessed as of the first day of January each year in the name of the owner. Individuals, companies and corporations that own or have tangible personal property subject to their control on January 1st, must list the property with the county appraiser on or before March 15th. When March 15th falls on a day other than a regular business day, the first business day following the deadline is considered timely. [K.S.A. 79-301, 79-303, 79-306, 79-1457] If personal property is not listed or if a rendition is untimely filed, the county appraiser is required by law to apply any applicable penalties. These penalties are set forth in K.S.A. 79-1422 and K.S.A. 79-1427(a) as follows: View Chart

If a taxpayer fails or refuses to file a rendition or, if the rendition filed does not truly represent all the property, the county appraiser has the duty to investigate, identify, list and value such property in an effort to achieve uniformity and equality. (K.S.A. 79-1411(b) and K.S.A. 79-1461) NOTE: To avoid incurring state mandated penalties, renditions must be filed by the deadline date. Counties have no authority to abate, waive, or refund the penalty mandated by K.S.A. 79-1422. Only the Board of Tax Appeals has the authority to abate, waive, or refund the penalty.

11. How does the county appraiser determine personal property values?: The county appraiser determines the value of personal property using publications and valuation guides prescribed by the State Division of Property Valuation as required by state law. [K.S.A 79-1456]

12. Do personal property values depreciate every year?: Personal property valued at market value does not necessarily depreciate each year. Typically, personal property valued with a formula driven value will depreciate each year, or until a minimum value is reached.

13. How does the county's appraisal affect taxes?

If a property value goes up, it does not necessarily mean the taxes will increase. Likewise, if a property value goes down or does not change, it does not automatically mean the taxes will decrease or remain the same.

Changes in property taxes are based in large part on how much the local government decides to spend on services each year. If values overall go up but local spending remains the same, the mill levy (tax rate) should be lower and therefore have little effect on the tax bill.

14. When are taxpayers notified of the value of their personal property?: Notices of value for personal property are sent to the owner by May 1 each year. [K.S.A. 79-1460]

15. What can property owners do if they believe their personal property value is too high?

There are two ways property owners may challenge or "appeal" their personal property values.

1) The "notice of value" may be appealed by contacting the county appraiser's office by May 15th to schedule an informal meeting with an appraiser. [K.S.A. 79-1448]

2) After receiving the tax statement, the owner may file a "payment under protest" form with the county treasurer at the time the taxes are paid. If all the taxes are paid prior to December 20th, the protest can be made no later than December 20th (or by January 31st if the taxes are paid from an escrow account or by a tax service). [K.S.A. 79-2005] Taxpayers can NOT appeal the notice of value AND pay the taxes under protest for the same property in the same tax year. [K.S.A. 79-2005(b)]

16. What takes place at the appeal hearing?: The appraiser will demonstrate how the appraised value was determined for the property. The property owner should present information and documentation to support the value he or she believes should be on the property. The appraiser will review and evaluate all information and documentation presented at the hearing. A "hearing result letter" with the appraiser's final determination of value will be mailed to the property owner. If the owner is still not satisfied with the appraised value, he or she may further appeal to the State Board of Tax Appeals. [K.S.A. 79-1448, 79-2005]

17. How are personal property taxes calculated?

The appraised value of the property is multiplied by the assessment rate (determined by the personal property subclass) for the assessed value. The assessed value is then multiplied by the mill levy (tax rate) for the tax unit where the property was located as of the assessment date (January 1). That figure is divided by 1,000 for the full year property tax amount.

Example: To calculate the property tax on personal property with an appraised value of $5,000: Appraised Value 5,000 x Assessment Rate *30% = Assessed Value 1,500 x Mill Levy 126.635 / 1000 = Property Tax $189.95. * 30% is the assessment rate for property in the "motor vehicle" or "other" subclass of personal property. ** 126.635 is the 2001 Manhattan city mill levy.

18. What is the mill levy?

The mill levy is the tax rate that is applied to the assessed value of the property.

In general terms, the mill levy is computed by dividing the dollars needed for local services by the taxable assessed value in the service area.

In addition, the Unified School Districts of Kansas levy 20 mills for the school general fund. Capital outlay and local option budgets are levied as necessary.

After the local government budgets are published and meetings are completed in August of each year, the county clerk computes the final mill levies for each tax unit and certifies the tax roll to the county treasurer for collection.

19. Who is responsible for the taxes due on property that was sold or purchased during the year?: Except for motor vehicles, personal property taxes are the responsibility of the owner of record on January 1 of each year.

20. Are property taxes prorated between buyer and seller?: Property is not prorated on the tax roll when acquired and is not prorated off the tax roll when disposed of (K.A S. 79-309). The only exceptions to this are for motor vehicles and when taxable property becomes exempt or exempt property becomes taxable.

21. Are personal property taxes prorated?: Generally, personal property is not prorated onto the tax roll when it is acquired and it is not prorated off the tax roll when disposed of. The only exceptions are for motor vehicles; taxable personal property that becomes exempt during the year, or exempt personal property that no longer qualifies for exemption.

22. I sold my property during the year; do I still need to fill out a rendition?: Yes, if you close your business or sell all of your taxable personal property you must file a form the following year so we can remove you from the tax roll. The Appraisal Office cannot remove property from the tax roll without a signature on file from a taxpayer verifying that the property is no longer owned by them.

23. When are personal property taxes due?

The full amount or the first half of the taxes for personal property assessed on the tax roll is due by December 20th each year. The second half of the taxes are due by May 10th of the following year.

If the first half of the personal property taxes are not paid by December 20th, then the full amount becomes due immediately and you no longer have the option of paying the second half by May 10th.

Taxes for motor vehicles that are registered with a tag weight of 12,000 pounds or less and taxes for Kansas RV titled recreational vehicles, are due in full at time of registration or renewal. [K.S.A. 79-5107, 5119]

Whenever the aggregate amount of tax owed for tangible personal property by any taxpayer is less than $5, the tax is cancelled and no personal property tax statement is issued. This applies only to the tax amount due, not the value of the personal property. [K.S.A. 79-344]

24. Where can taxpayers find additional information about property taxation?: The county appraiser can answer taxpayer's questions concerning the classification and valuation of property. The county treasurer can answer questions about a tax bill or tax payment. The county clerk can answer questions regarding mill levies (tax rates) for taxing districts (tax units).

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Planning / Development / Permits / Zoning

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1. If I want to make a complaint against someone regarding a possible zoning violation, can I remain anonymous?: Yes. But it is often advantageous to leave your contact information so staff can respond back to you regarding the violation or to obtain additional information. Sometimes it is necessary for individuals to testify in court to provide evidence of ongoing violations. For more information on zoning enforcement issues in Riley County, contact Planning and Development at (785) 537-6332.

2. Can I have an apartment in my garage or guest house on my property?

Multiple residences are permitted if the property is zoned B-1 (Two Family) or B-2 (Multiple Family) or if your property is subdivided into 2 lots.

At this time, accessory apartments are only permitted in the AG (Agricultural District) zoning district, subject to the use-specific standards of that district.

Secondary dwellings, such as a guest house, are only permitted in the AG (Agricultural District) zoning district as a Conditional Use, also subject to the use-specific standards of that district.

No accessory building shall be used as sleeping or housekeeping quarters unless expressly permitted in the zoning district in which the property is located.

Please contact Planning and Development at (785) 537-6332 for more information.

3. What is a PUD?

A PUD is an acronym for Planned Unit Development. It is a custom-made zoning district created to promote progressive and flexible land development which allows the combining of land uses not typically found in the same zoning district. The PUD zoning district provides for:

• A maximum choice of living environments

• A more useful pattern of open space and recreation

• A development pattern that preserves and utilizes environmental features

• A more efficient use of land and provision of services

• A development pattern in harmony with land use density, neighborhood character, transportation facilities, community facilities and economic development potential.

The PUD process has three steps:

1. The Planning Board reviews an application for a Planned Unit Development, which includes the submittal of a Preliminary Development Plan; the Planning Board holds a public hearing and forwards a recommendation of approval or denial to the Board of County Commissioners.

2. The Board of County Commissioners approve or deny the rezoning request, based on the details of the Preliminary Development Plan. Within seven days of approval of the application, the applicant must file a Notice of Approval of Planned Unit Development Preliminary Development Plan with the Register of Deeds.

3. Finally, the request goes back to the Planning Board to which the applicant submits a Final Development Plan for final approval and signature. The Final Development Plan is signed by the Director of Planning and Development.

Please contact the Planning & Development Department at (785) 537-6332 for more information.

4. What is the process for sub-dividing land?: The requirements and procedures for selling a portion of an existing parcel are outlined in the Manhattan Urban Area Subdivision Regulations and the Riley County Subdivision Regulations. These separate regulations apply in different portions of the unincorporated areas of the County. Contact the Planning and Development at (785) 537-6332 for more detailed information regarding this process.

5. I have 60-acres and I would like to sell 30-acres of my land. Do I need to plat the property?: Generally, in the unincorporated portions of the county, divisions of property that are 20 acres or greater are exempt from the platting requirements; however, within the Manhattan Urban Area, such divisions are only exempt if the property will be used strictly for agricultural purposes or as a cemetery. It is always a good idea to check with Riley County Planning & Development Department at (785) 537-6332 to determine any platting and/or zoning requirements prior to the sale of any land, particularly since this is information that likely will not be included in a title search or abstract of title.

6. I received a notice of public hearing in the mail. What exactly does it mean?: State law requires that surrounding property owners within 1000 feet be directly notified whenever a rezoning, variance or conditional use is requested. Riley County also sends notice when a plat is being proposed. This notice tells you the time, date and place where the public hearing is being held, the requested change and where the property is located. You are welcome to attend this hearing to voice your support or concerns regarding the requested change or to just ask questions about the proposal. You may also at any time call Riley County Planning & Development at (785) 537-6332 to find out more about the request.

7. I would like to put up a sign advertising my business. Do I need a sign permit?: Yes, sign permits are required prior to the erection of any sign in the unincorporated areas of Riley County. Contact the Riley County Planning and Development at (785) 537-6332) for more information.

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Public Works

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1. Who do I contact with an after hour emergency?: Please contact the Riley County Police Department at 785-537-2112. If you feel this is an emergency situation please call 911.

2. Where do I go to start water service in Riley County?

For City of Manhattan water service please contact 785-587-2480.

For Riley County Rural Water District #1 service please contact 785-537-4440.

For Riley County Water and Sewer Benefit Districts please contact the Riley County Public Works Department at 6215 Tuttle Creek Blvd or by calling 785-537-6335.

3. Is there a deposit for water or sewer service?: Yes, there is a $75.00 refundable deposit required in order to start water or sewer service in a Riley County Benefit District.

4. Can I get service the same day?

Generally, water or sewer service transfers can be received within 24 hours after:

•Completion of our Transfer of Existing Service form. (Note: For new connections please contact our office at 785-537-6335)

•Payments of the $ 40.00 activation fee and $ 75.00 refundable service deposit have been received.

5. When will I get my bill?: Bills are mailed by the 5th of each month.

6. When is my bill due?

•All payments are due by 5:00 p.m. on the 18th of each month.

•Late notices are mailed on the 19th of each month with a 10% late fee.

•Disconnects are generally within 7 days after the late notices are mailed, and have a $75.00 non-payment fee assessed. Actual date of disconnection will be included with your late notice when it is mailed.

7. What payment options are available?

•Auto Debit

•Online bill pay

•In person, or drop box locations, at 6215 Tuttle Creek Blvd or 110 Courthouse Plaza

•U.S. Mail (please note due dates, and allow for mailing times, when choosing to mail your payment)

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Real Estate

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1. What is real property?: According to Kansas statute, real property is land and all buildings, fixtures, improvements, mines, minerals, quarries, mineral springs and wells, rights and privileges appertaining thereto, except as otherwise specifically provided.

2. What real property is taxable?: By law, all property in this state, real and personal, not expressly exempt therefrom, is subject to taxation.

3. Why is property taxed in Kansas?: Tax dollars are used by local government to provide funding for roads, parks, fire protection, police protection, health and other services. Property taxes also fund public school districts.

4. What does my county appraiser do?: By law, the county appraiser is responsible for listing and valuing property in a uniform and equal manner. The appraiser determines the appropriate value of your property. The amount of property taxes you pay depends on the budgets set by local government, special assessments, and an amount distributed to public schools.

5. How does the county's appraisal affect my taxes?: If a property value goes up, it does not necessarily mean the taxes will increase. Likewise, if a property value goes down or does not change, it does not automatically mean the taxes will decrease or remain the same. Changes in property taxes are based in large part on how much the local government decides to spend on services each year. If values overall go up but local spending remains the same, the mill levy (tax rate) should be lower and therefore have little effect on the tax bill.

6. Will the value of my property change every year?: The value of your property may change each year - it depends on market conditions, improvements to your property, etc. The county appraiser continually updates sale prices and other information on property all over the county.

7. At what level is property appraised?: Homes, commercial real property and certain other property categories are appraised at "market value" as of the first day of January each year. Market value is the amount of money a well-informed buyer would pay and a well-informed seller would accept for property in an open and competitive market without any outside influence.

8. Does the county appraiser visit my property?: State law requires your county appraiser to view and inspect all real property in the county once every six years.

9. If I bought my house last year, shouldn't the value be the same as what I paid for it a year ago?: One sale by itself does not determine market value. In addition, inflation and other market conditions may effect the market value of your home as of January 1. The price you paid for your house is verified by the county appraiser and then considered along with sales of similar properties.

10. When will I be notified of the value of my property?: Notices of value are sent to the owner, as recorded in the register of deeds office, on or before March 1 for real property each year.

11. How can I determine if the appraisal of my home is accurate?: You can visit the county appraiser's office to review information on similar properties and verify that the information the appraiser's office has on your home is correct. In addition, real estate professionals can provide information about market conditions in your area.

12. Who pays the taxes due on property I sold or purchased?: For real property, the buyer is responsible for the property tax if the property is sold on or after January 1 and before November 1. The seller is responsible for the property tax if purchased on or after November 1 and prior to January 1 (K.S.A. 79-1805).

13. Are property taxes prorated between buyer and seller?: Property is not prorated on to the tax roll when acquired and is not prorated off the tax roll when disposed of (K.S.A. 79-309). However, private contracts between buyers and sellers will often prorate the property tax. The only exceptions to this are for motor vehicles and when taxable property becomes exempt or exempt property becomes taxable.

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Real Estate Tax

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1. How can I find out who owns a property?: Call or come into the County Clerk's Office and we can provide this information with a legal description or the site address. If this information is not available we can help you find it on an aerial map.

2. How much are the taxes on a property?: The tax amounts are available with the address of the property, owner name or the legal description in the County Clerk's office. You may contact us at (785)537-6300.
Email...

3. Can I get the size of my lot or property?

An aerial view of your property can be printed out for you with this information if available. (Not for use as a legal survey)

Info may be found on the Riley County GIS website.

4. How can I find the value of a property?: The value can be obtained by providing the County Clerk's office with the address of the property, owner’s name or the legal description. This information is also available on the Riley County GIS website at http://gis.rileycountyks.gov/

5. How can I get a description of my property?: You may contact the Register of Deed's Office for a copy of the deed including the legal description. A legal description is obtained through a survey company. An abbreviated description is available in the County Clerk's office with the property address, owner’s name or viewing an aerial map.

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Register of Deeds

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1. Where is the Register of Deeds Office located?: The office is located in the County Office Building at 110 Courthouse Plaza (at the corner of 5th and Humboldt streets), Manhattan, Kansas, on the second floor, Room #B202.

2. Does the document need to be an original?: The document being recorded must have original signatures except in the case of certified copies from certain courts and the Bureau of Vital Statistics for Death Certificates

3. Must signatures be notarized?: Yes.

4. What happens when a document is brought to the Register of Deeds Office for recording?: There are a number of steps that each document goes through before it is returned to the filer. It must first be determined whether the document is recordable and if correct fees are enclosed. The document is given a book and page, entered into the computer, information verified, scanned and most original documents are returned to the customer. UCC Filings do not apply to this condition, please contact us for further instructions or questions in this matter.

5. Who keeps the documents?: Once a document is recorded, it is returned to the filer. A digital copy is kept at the Register of Deeds office and a microfilmed copy is sent to the salt mines in Hutchinson.

6. How much does it cost to record a document?: Recording fees are set by Kansas Statute. See the fee schedule.

7. Where does the money for recording go?: Most of the fees collected by the Register of Deeds go into the county general fund. The exceptions are the fees collected for the Kansas Heritage Trust Fund which help fund preservation projects across Kansas and the Technology Fund which is a special fund for the Register of Deeds office for the preservation of records.

8. How far back do the records in the Register of Deeds Office go?: The earliest records in the Register of Deeds office, transcribed by hand in elaborate manuscript, date back to September 1857. Among the early records are the Patent Deeds recorded after settlers acquired land from the United States government.

9. How is all that paper tracked?: Currently copies of the images of all records back to June 1953 are available on the computers. All other records back to 1853 are available on paper copies or microfilm copies. A sophisticated software package has been implemented to track all new recordings and records back to July 1985.

10. What information do I need to obtain a copy of my deed?: Generally most documents can be located by simply giving us the name on the document. Other information you may be requested to give is the address of the property, a legal description and approximate recording date.

11. What is a lien?: A lien allows a creditor a way of preventing property from being sold or mortgaged until a debt against the property is paid. There are many types of liens such as tax liens and mechanics liens. Mechanic liens are filed in the Clerk of the District Court.

12. Can I get someone to do research for me?: We will do basic research for questions such as: who owns a particular address; has the mortgage against my property been released, etc. You must do in depth research in our office using our public access computers or go through title companies, attorneys, search companies, etc.

13. Can I find out who owns a particular piece of property?: All parcels of land in Riley County are listed in the computer along with the current owner of record. A call or visit to the Register of Deeds Office with an address, legal description, etc. will allow us to look that information up for you. Another valuable tool is the Riley County GIS Website www.gis.rileycountyks.gov. You can locate parcel ownership, subdivisions, land sections, etc.

14. Are there liens against my property?: The records in the Register of Deeds office will list liens such as mortgages, Uniform Commercial Code filings, state and federal tax liens filed against both real and personal property. But not all liens are filed in this office, you may wish to check with the Clerk of the District Court for other liens

15. What is meant by "indexes"?: An index is a system by which each real estate record is listed in a specific place that applies to a specific subdivision, or section, township and range. This enables us to track the history of each parcel back as far as necessary.

16. How do I find information about easements on my property?: You may come to our office and attempt to locate easements on a property by searching the indexes for your property. Our records will show any easements that have been recorded in our office. Some easements are also recorded on deeds and may not be easily located. Easements are often difficult to find because many of them have not been recorded in our office. The services of a lawyer or abstract company may be required to sort through easement issues.

17. Can I find out how old my house is or get historical information about my house?: Not in our office. The Appraiser's office may have some information regarding the date a house was built. For more detailed information, you might try contacting the Riley County Historical Society.

18. Where else can I look if I cannot find the information in your office?: You may find records in the Clerk of the District Court concerning probate, marriage, divorce records, etc. The Kansas Department of Vital Statistics has records concerning birth and death records. The Riley County Genealogical Library may be able to help you in doing genealogy research.

19. What was the sale price for a particular property?: The County Appraiser collects sales information which is used for property valuation purposes and is not open to public inspection.

20. Can the Register of Deeds office tell me if I have a good and clear title?: No. You must enlist the services of a professional title company or abstractor who search records other than those in the Register of Deeds Office to determine if the title is clear.

21. Is everything handled in the Register of Deeds office public record?: Everything recorded in the Register of Deeds Office is regulated by the Kansas Open Records Act.

22. Can I get a copy of a birth or death certificate through the Register of Deeds Office?: No. Copies of birth and death certificates may be obtained through the Kansas Office of Vital Statistics.

23. How do I record or get a copy of my military discharge?: When soldiers are discharged, the military encourages the discharged member to record the military discharge papers, also known as DD214's, with our office. If you choose to record your DD214, you may bring it into our office where it will become part of the permanent record. There is no fee for this service. We must have the original discharge form which reflects the discharge status. At the time of recording or any time after that, you may request certified copies at no additional charge (for up to five copies). If you come into our office, we can make copies while you wait.

24. What is a deed?: A deed is an instrument through which a buyer obtains title to the property being sold. There are many types of deeds. The most common type of deed is a warranty deed. (See the Glossary of Terms.)

25. Do I need to record my deed?: A deed should be recorded as soon as possible after the transaction takes place. Numerous legal problems could arise regarding the property if not recorded. However, there is no time limit on recording deeds.

26. May I record a document for real estate for another county?: No, each county records only the documents pertaining to the real estate in their county.

27. I want to take someone's name off my deed or change the names of the owners on my property. Can I change the deed?: No. Any change in ownership generally requires that a new deed be recorded. Exceptions to this rule may result either from court cases (i.e. divorces, foreclosures, probate, etc.) or from deaths where certain legal verbiage exists in the document and a death certificate has been recorded in our office. In these cases, the deed itself will not change even though ownership does. Evidence of ownership exists in the combination of the related documents.

28. If I sell a portion of my land, do I get a deed for the remainder?: No. Records in the Courthouse show your original deed and the deed(s) for portions sold.

29. May I make out my own deed?: Yes you may, however, we always recommend consulting an attorney regarding property transfers and changes, because minor changes in the wording of the document can completely change the legal meaning of the document. The Register of Deeds office is a recording agency only, we cannot make out deeds or answer questions regarding legal matters.

30. If I want to write my own deed, do you have standard deed forms available?: No. The Register of Deeds does not provide forms for documents to be filed. See our forms section for attachments that may be required with certain documents.

31. What if I lose my deed?: The primary evidence of ownership of land is not so much the deed itself as the recording of the deed. If a property is mortgaged, the financial institution may hold the deed until the mortgage is satisfied. If your deed is lost, a certified copy may be obtained from our office.

32. How long does it take to record a document?: A document is generally recorded the same day it is received. It then takes another 1 to 2 days to complete the process of checking data entry, scanning, etc. The original is then returned to the filer with the exception of UCC's which are retained in the Register of Deeds office. A copy of a file stamped UCC is returned only if the originator sends more than one copy when filing the original.

33. What types of documents can I file in the Register of Deeds Office?: See the "Types of Documents Filed" section for a list of the most common types of documents recorded. If you have a question as to whether you can record a particular document, please contact the Register of Deeds office for clarification.

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Tax Sale

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1. What is the process for participating in a Tax Sale?

To participate in the July 8, 2022 auction:

Fill out the registration form online
OR Download, print, and return the form to the County Counselor's Office. Download PDF OR Word Doc
The deadline to register is 5:00 p.m. July 1, 2022. You will not be able to register the day of the sale.

Instructions.

2. Can I place bids ahead of time on the available properties?: No. The sale is a public auction. Properties will be sold to the highest bidder.

3. How do I pay for property purchased at a tax sale?

Payment and Fees

All properties must be paid for on the day of the sale. Cash ($1,000.00 limit) or checks are accepted as well as debit or credit cards (2.5% processing fee when using debit or credit cards). Checks should be made payable to the Clerk of the District Court. The buyer will receive a receipt upon payment.

State law requires that a $21 recording fee be collected at the time payment is made, and there is an additional charge of $17 per page after the first page. The County Counselor's staff will estimate these charges. Overcharges will be returned to the buyer. Undercharges must be paid prior to recording.

4. Can I place sealed bids on any property?: No. Currently Riley County does not have any properties available by sealed bids.

5. Are there any properties available for over-the-counter purchase?: No. Currently Riley County does not have any properties available for over-the-counter purchase.

6. How can I get my property out of a tax sale?: You may redeem your property by contacting the County Treasurer's office at (785) 537-6321 and by paying all taxes, interest, penalties, and court costs assessed against the property. You may redeem the property up to 5:00 p.m. the day before the tax sale.

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Taxes

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1. When should I receive my tax statement?: You should receive your real estate and personal property tax statement for the current year by the middle part of November.

2. What if my mortgage company pays my real estate taxes and I receive the tax bill?: If you have an escrow account for your real estate taxes with a mortgage company, the mortgage company should receive the tax statement. If you do receive the tax statement instead of the mortgage company, we ask you to forward it to the mortgage company so they can pay taxes from the escrow account. We also ask you to have your current mortgage company notify the County Treasurer's office so that we can get the correct billing information from them.

3. What should I do if I don't receive a tax bill?: If you do not receive a tax statement by the end of November, please contact the County Treasurer's office at 785-537-6321.

4. When are my real estate taxes due?: If you are responsible for paying taxes on a home or other real estate property, the full amount could be paid or half the amount on or before December 20 of that tax year. If the first half is paid, the second half of that year's taxes are due on or before May 10 of the following year.

5. What happens if I don't pay my real estate taxes on time?: If the first half of the current year real estate taxes are not paid by December 20, interest will start accruing December 21. You should receive a delinquent real estate tax reminder in February. If the mortgage company was to have paid these taxes, you must inform them that the Treasurer's office for the County did not receive the payment. If there are any questions, the mortgage company needs to call the County Treasurer's office at 785-537-6321.You or the mortgage company can pay the first half of the current year taxes with interest up until May 10. After May 10, if the first half of the real estate taxes has not been paid, the full amount of the current year tax plus interest will have to be paid. If the current year tax has not been paid by the first of August, there will be an additional fee of $16.00 for advertising. Riley County is required by Kansas State law (KSA 79-2303) to publish a list of unpaid real estate taxes. If taxes go unpaid by the first Tuesday after the first Monday in September, taxes will be put on the delinquent tax roll, and it becomes a lien on the real estate. If you want to pay delinquent years, Kansas State law (KSA 79-2401A) requires that the most delinquent year be paid first.

6. When would my real estate property be up for tax sale?: Real estate property taxes three years delinquent are subject to a tax foreclosure auction and public sale.

7. When are my personal property taxes due?: The first half of the personal property taxes are due on or before December 20. If you pay the first half of the personal property taxes in December, the second half is due on or before May 10 of the following year.

8. What happens if I don't pay my personal property taxes on time?: If the first half of the personal property taxes are not paid by December 20, the full tax amount plus interest becomes due, starting December 21. Delinquent notices for personal property are sent out in February. If they are not paid, warrants are issued. Warrants are issued 30 days after notices are mailed. Tax warrants go to the Riley County Police Department for collection of delinquent taxes, interest, and sheriff fees. Payments are payable to the County Treasurer. If you paid the first half of your personal property taxes on time, the second half of the personal property taxes are due on or before May 10. If these taxes are not paid by May 10, interest will begin to accrue. Delinquent personal property tax notices are mailed in June. If they are not paid, tax warrants are issued in July. All delinquent personal property tax must be paid at the County Treasurer's office. Kansas State law (KSA 79-2017) requires delinquent personal property to be advertised in October. If you have any previous years owing on personal property tax, they must be paid at the County Treasurer's office.

9. How can I pay my real estate and personal property taxes?

You may use a personal check, money order, cashier's check, cash, or credit card. You may also pay online with an e-check or credit card, please note there is an additional fee for these payment methods.

Payment may be made:

In person at 110 Courthouse Plaza, Manhattan KS 66502
Mail: Riley County Treasurer's Office, 110 Courthouse Plaza, Manhattan KS 66502
Riley County Office Building (110 Courthouse Plaza) drop-box (accessible 24/7)
Online at https://www.kansas.gov/propertytax/

10. How do I file a payment under protest?: You may file a payment under protest only if you did not file an equalization appeal on the same property for the same tax year. If you have protested your first half payment of taxes, you may not protest your second half payment. You must file the Protest Form and pay the first half taxes due by December 20. If your taxes are paid by an escrow agent, you must file your protest no later than Jaunuary 31. After the deadline, any protests must be filed at the time taxes are paid.

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WIC

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1. What is WIC?: WIC is a supplemental nutrition program that provides nutrition education and vouchers for specific foods to pregnant and breastfeeding women, infants, and children under five years of age who are determined to be at nutrition risk and have family income below 185% of federal poverty guidelines.

2. When is check pick up in Manhattan?: Check pick up is by appointment

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Wildlife & Parks

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1. Where can I purchase hunting and fishing licenses?: Hunting and fishing licenses may be purchased at the Riley County Clerks office, 110 Courthouse Plaza, Manhattan, Kansas or the Wildlife and Parks office at Tuttle Creek State Park. Licenses are also available at several other locations in Manhattan.

2. Do I need a hunting or fishing license if I am only hunting or fishing on my own land?: No, a license is not required if you are only hunting or fishing on your own property.

3. Do my children need a license to hunt or fish?: Children under the age of 16 do not need a license to hunt or fish.

4. I'm over 65 years old, do I need a license to hunt or fish?: Kansas residents over the age of 65 are not required to purchase a hunting or fishing license.

5. What is the Kansas State Parks Passport?: The Kansas State Parks Passport is a way for Kansas residents to buy an annual park permit at a reduced price and with the convenience of buying it when they register their vehicles. The Passport makes it convenient and affordable for Kansans to enjoy our 25 state parks, for families to reconnect with nature and each other, and help preserve the parks for future generations. Families can enjoy a whole year of outdoor fun for less than the cost of treating the family to a night at the movies. Kansas State Parks Passport FAQs

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Zoning

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1. How do I determine what my property is zoned?

If your property is located in Riley County outside of the limits of an incorporated city, you may call Riley County Planning & Development at 785-537-6332 to obtain that information. When you call please provide one of the following 1. the name of the property owner 2. the property's legal description or 3. the property's address.

Individuals are also welcome to come to the Planning & Development office located at 110 Courthouse Plaza, Manhattan.

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