Communities › Shawnee County › Silver Lake, KS
Silver Lake, Kansas
Silver Lake is a small Shawnee County community near Topeka, offering small-town living with access to the capital city.
Homes for saleWhat’s newCity rulesUtilitiesProperty taxesPrice per sq ftLiving hereSales taxFAQ
Silver Lake is a Shawnee County, Kansas city. So far in 2026, 16 single-family homes sold through the MLS at a median of $287,500, about $141 per finished square foot. The median annual property tax on those homes was $3,650, an effective rate of 1.3% of the sale price.
What’s new in Silver Lake
What the city is approving, building and planning
Pulled from council and planning agendas, city news and local reporting, checked November 6, 2026. Older items move to our Update Archive.
Water lines
July 2026
Silver Lake’s $3.6 million waterline request makes the state’s 2027 loan list, but below the funding line
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s 2027 Public Water Supply Loan Fund plan, effective July 16, 2026, lists Silver Lake’s waterline replacement (project 3476) with a $3.6 million loan request and a priority score of 11. The base funding line covers projects scoring 13 or higher, so Silver Lake’s project is listed but not in the initial funding allocation; it could still be reached if higher-ranked projects are not ready to proceed.
Utilities
2026
City posts 2026 water quality report (2025 testing results)
The City of Silver Lake posted its 2026 Consumer Confidence Report with the 2025 drinking-water test results. Buyers can read it to see what is in city water.
Your taxes
August 4, 2025
City Council holds hearing on proposed 2026 budget
The proposed 2026 budget lists $2,039,245 in total expenditures, up from an estimated $1,412,803 in 2025. The estimated city mill levy drops to 27.507 from 28.738 in 2025 and 29.988 in 2024. The estimate can change once final assessed values are set.
City hall
Ongoing
City Council meeting schedule
The Silver Lake City Council meets on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall, 218 W. Railroad St. Public comment is open at every meeting. To get on an agenda, call 785-582-4280 before noon on the Friday before the meeting.
Homes for sale
Silver Lake homes for sale right now
Live from the MLS. First, the lowest-priced home for sale (and what is for rent) in Silver Lake right now; it changes on its own as listings come and go. Then what is coming soon, and every listing on the map below.
Updated live from the MLS
Lowest-priced home for sale in Silver Lake
The lowest-priced Silver Lake listing shows here, updated automatically.
Updated live from the MLS
Homes for rent in Silver Lake
See them before they hit the market
Coming soon in Silver Lake
Map view
Every Silver Lake listing on the map
Start with a Silver Lake search:
Loading live listings by subdivision…
Historical property tax
Silver Lake property taxes: 10 years of real bills
The typical Silver Lake home that sold in 2026 (year to date) carried an annual property tax bill of about $3,650, or 1.30% of its sale price. In 2017 it was $2,312 (1.41%). Appraisals tend to rise faster than anyone budgets for, so check the actual bill on any home you like.
10 years of real tax bills
Median property tax on Silver Lake homes that sold, 2017–2026
What buyers actually inherited: the full annual tax bill (city, county, school and all other levies) on single-family homes sold each year. Effective rate = tax ÷ sale price.
See the numbers
| Year sold | Median annual tax | Median sale price | Effective rate | Sales |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | $2,312 | $196,500 | 1.41% | 14 |
| 2018 | $2,344 | $172,000 | 1.41% | 21 |
| 2019 | $2,508 | $190,000 | 1.36% | 27 |
| 2020 | $2,760 | $202,000 | 1.39% | 22 |
| 2021 | $2,818 | $210,000 | 1.25% | 25 |
| 2022 | $3,182 | $269,500 | 1.26% | 18 |
| 2023 | $3,307 | $260,000 | 1.22% | 15 |
| 2024 | $3,329 | $255,000 | 1.31% | 19 |
| 2025 | $3,362 | $270,000 | 1.32% | 27 |
| 2026 | $3,650 | $287,500 | 1.30% | 16 |
Source: Sunflower MLS (Topeka area) closed single-family sales, exported October 16, 2026, compiled by Wingman Real Estate – The Shopper Team. That export has no closing date, so the sale year is estimated from the list date plus days on market. Tax figures are as reported in MLS at sale and may reflect the prior tax year; bills under $300 (land-only or missing) are left out. Not a tax quote.
10-year lookback
Price per square foot, subdivision by subdivision
Median sale price per finished square foot for single-family homes in each Silver Lake subdivision, by year sold. Darker gold means pricier per foot. Scroll sideways on a phone.
| Subdivision | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silver Lake120 sales | $81 | $84 | $88 | $87 | $104 | $114 | $145 | $134 | $141 | $131 | +62%2017–26 |
| Not Subdivided56 sales | $95 | $85 | $94 | $120 | $127 | $126 | · | $171 | $149 | $229 | +142%2017–26 |
| Kiro8 sales | · | · | $84 | $93 | · | · | · | · | $127 | · | +51%2019–25 |
Source: Sunflower MLS (Topeka area) closed single-family sales, exported October 16, 2026, compiled by Wingman Real Estate – The Shopper Team. That export has no closing date, so the sale year is estimated from the list date plus days on market. A year is shown only when at least two homes sold; subdivisions with fewer than 8 sales in these years are left out. Small neighborhoods can swing a lot year to year. Methodology.
Silver Lake subdivisions
7 Silver Lake neighborhoods with recent sales
Every Silver Lake subdivision with at least three single-family sales in the last ten years, A to Z, with its sales count. Tap one to see what is for sale there now.
Subdivision names as entered in the MLS. Source: Sunflower MLS (Topeka area) closed single-family sales, exported October 16, 2026, compiled by Wingman Real Estate – The Shopper Team. That export has no closing date, so the sale year is estimated from the list date plus days on market.
Living in Silver Lake
Silver Lake at a closer look
Living in Silver Lake, Kansas
Silver Lake is a small city in Shawnee County, Kansas, northwest of Topeka along the Kansas River. Named for the nearby lake, it offers a close-knit small-town setting with a short commute to the Topeka metro and is served by the Topeka-area MLS.
Schools
Silver Lake is served by the Silver Lake School District (USD 372), which includes Silver Lake High School. School boundaries can change, so confirm the current assignment for a specific address with the district.
Working in Silver Lake
Silver Lake residents commute largely to Topeka for employment, while the local school district, healthcare, agriculture and small businesses provide jobs in town.
Parks & Recreation
Silver Lake is known for its namesake lake and community parks, with river-valley recreation and the broader Topeka area amenities close by.
Silver Lake Real Estate Market
Silver Lake offers a stable small-town market with an ACS median value around $169,300 and a high 73% ownership rate, appealing to buyers wanting a quieter setting near Topeka.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. Figures are estimates and may be revised.
City rules
Can I do that in Silver Lake?
The questions buyers ask before the fence goes up, straight from Silver Lake code and permit pages. Rules change and HOA covenants can be stricter, so confirm with the city before you build.
Fireworks (shooting them off)
Shooting off fireworks inside city limits is illegal except during windows the city sets by resolution each year. In 2025 the windows were June 27–July 2 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., July 3–4 from 9 a.m. to midnight, July 5 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and 11:50 p.m. Dec. 31 to 12:10 a.m. Jan. 1.
Fireworks (selling them)
Selling fireworks requires a city permit. Sales are allowed only from June 27 through July 5, 8 a.m.–11 p.m. No sales permits are issued in residential zoning districts (Sec. 7-302).
Chickens, other fowl and livestock
Generally not allowed. Sec. 2-109 makes it unlawful to keep any animal or fowl in the city, and 'fowl' includes chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, guineas and pigeons. Pens or stables for horses, mules, cattle, sheep, goats or swine are also barred. Exceptions cover dogs and ordinary household pets such as cats, rabbits and parakeets kept in sanitary conditions.
Open burning / fire pits
Open burning is banned unless an exemption applies or you have a permit. Grills and small cooking fires in non-combustible containers are allowed. Other burning needs a written permit from the Fire Department. Permitted burns have rules on wind speed, time of day and distance from homes, and violations can be fined up to $500 (Secs. 7-401 to 7-411).
Living in an RV or camper on your property
Not allowed, except with a temporary permit from the City Clerk. The permit allows up to 30 days, one request per year, residential zoning only, a $30 fee and a cap of 4 occupants. An RV hooked up to power or sewer is presumed to be occupied (Sec. 12-202).
Grass and weed height
Weeds and grasses taller than 12 inches on residential property are presumed to be a nuisance. If the owner does not mow after notice, the city can mow and bill the owner. Unpaid bills can be added to the property tax (Secs. 8-501 to 8-506).
Inoperable or untagged vehicles
Junked, inoperable or unregistered vehicles kept in the open are a nuisance. Exceptions include vehicles fully enclosed in a garage or building and vehicles inoperable for 30 days or less (Sec. 8-403).
Swimming pools
A city permit is required before building a private pool 2 feet or deeper, including portable pools; the application fee is $20 for permanent pools or $10 for portable pools, plus $0.05 per square foot of pool. Permanent pools must be fully enclosed by a fence or wall at least 5 feet tall (42 inches for portable pools) with a latching gate, and pools cannot sit under electrical lines.
Snow removal (sidewalks)
Owners or occupants must clear snow and ice from abutting sidewalks within 12 hours after the snowfall or ice storm ends (or within 12 hours after sunrise if it ends overnight). Violations carry a $25 fine, the city may clear the walk and bill the property, and snow from private property may not be pushed onto streets, alleys or sidewalks.
Trash service
Trash is collected by the city or its authorized contractor and billed monthly on the utility bill; residents may also haul their own waste to an approved facility. Residential containers can hold no more than 100 gallons and need tight-fitting lids, or you can use securely closed plastic bags. Confirm current rates with City Hall.
Pets
Keeping more than four dogs at one location meets the Silver Lake code definition of a kennel. Dogs may not run at large; an impounded dog costs a $50 fine plus board for a first offense and $100 for a second within a year, and it needs a current rabies vaccination to be released. Confirm pet limits with City Hall.
Water and sewer hookups
Any building in city limits with a water source must connect to the city sanitary sewer, and septic tanks must be disconnected once a sewer connection is made (Sec. 15-402 and 15-404). A new water tap with a 3/4-inch meter costs $600 (Sec. 15-303), and a residential sewer permit is $400 per unit (Sec. 15-406).
Paying the utility bill
Utility bills go out around the 10th and must be paid in full by the last day of the month, or a $10 late charge is added (Sec. 15-203). Unpaid service can be shut off after notice and a chance for a hearing, and reconnecting costs the full balance plus $50 (Sec. 15-204 and 15-208). Owners and tenants of rented property are jointly liable for the bill (Sec. 15-207).
Lawn watering and water conservation
During a declared water supply emergency, the city can make limits on lawn sprinkling, car washing and pool filling mandatory (Sec. 15-605 to 15-607). Letting water run into the gutter or ignoring a leak counts as waste of water (Sec. 15-602), and fines are $100 for a first violation and $200 for a repeat (Sec. 15-610).
Golf carts on city streets
Golf carts may be driven on city streets and alleys with a posted limit of 30 mph or less, by a licensed driver, with a slow-moving vehicle emblem and lights after sunset (Sec. 14-203). Carts must be registered with the city for $40 a year and carry liability insurance.
UTVs and side-by-sides
Work-site utility vehicles and micro utility trucks may use city streets and alleys if registered with the Police Department for $40 a year, insured and driven by a licensed driver (Sec. 14-116 and 14-117). Lights are required from sunset to sunrise and everyone on board must wear a seat belt.
Street parking
No vehicle may sit parked on a city street for more than 96 straight hours, or it can be towed and impounded (Sec. 14-106). Trucks of 12,000 pounds or more, farm tractors and trailers may not park on a street for more than 30 minutes between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. (Sec. 14-107).
Parking near fire hydrants
Parking within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, or piling rubbish or other items near one, is not allowed (Sec. 7-105 and 7-209).
Riding mowers on the street
Driving a lawn mower or lawn tractor on city streets requires a limited permit, which sets the allowed routes and destinations and can be revoked by the Chief of Police (Sec. 14-202).
Door-to-door sales
Peddlers and solicitors need a license from the City Clerk, which costs $50 for three days, or a valid Shawnee County permit (Sec. 5-202 and 5-205). Selling door to door is limited to 8 a.m. until sunset, and violations carry a $100 fine (Sec. 5-205 and 5-211).
Tree trimming over sidewalks and streets
Branches must be kept at least 8 feet above sidewalks and 14 feet above streets and alleys (Sec. 13-216 and 13-306). If an owner does not trim after 5 days written notice, the city can do it and bill the property.
Sidewalk repair and curb cuts
The property owner next to a sidewalk is responsible for keeping it repaired, and the city may fix it after 5 days notice and assess the cost to the lot (Sec. 13-103). Cutting a curb, pavement or sidewalk needs a permit from the City Clerk, with a $50 fee and a $5,000 bond (Sec. 13-202, 13-203 and 13-206).
Building materials in the street
Storing building materials on a street or right-of-way requires a temporary use permit from the governing body, and selling or displaying goods on sidewalks is not allowed unless waived (Sec. 13-209).
Furniture and appliances in the yard
Leaving furniture, stoves, refrigerators, televisions, lawn mowers or similar items piled in a yard is a violation of the Environmental Code if it can be seen from a public place or neighboring property (Sec. 8-2A07 and 8-2A08). Owners get 10 days from the order to clean it up (Sec. 8-2A09).
Noise and loud music
Playing a radio, musical instrument or other sound device louder than needed for the people in the same room or vehicle, in a way that disturbs neighbors or the public, is unlawful at any time (Silver Lake City Code Sec. 8-1001).
Rental housing standards
Under the city’s Minimum Housing Code, no one may live in or rent out a dwelling that does not meet the code’s basic requirements, and owners must keep every dwelling in good repair and fit to live in (Silver Lake City Code Sec. 8-606 and 8-607).
Storing lumber and boxes outdoors
Lumber, boxes and similar materials that could shelter rats must be kept on open racks at least 12 inches off the ground, and letting garbage or trash pile up where it feeds or shelters rats is unlawful (Silver Lake City Code Sec. 8-707).
Fences
Fences may be no taller than 6.5 feet unless the Board of Zoning Appeals grants a special permit, and any fence closer to the street than the front setback line must be at least 60% open. The building official must certify that a proposed fence is not a traffic hazard (Silver Lake Code Sec. 16-2202; front-yard fences also need a special use under Sec. 16-503).
Sheds and accessory buildings
Accessory buildings must sit at least 2 feet from side and rear lot lines and 5 feet from an abutting alley, and may not cover more than 40% of the required rear yard. They cannot be built before work on the main building starts and cannot be used as a dwelling (Silver Lake Code Sec. 16-2201).
Home businesses
A home occupation must be run by a resident of the home with no more than one employee, no outside advertising or display, no products sold on the premises, and all work kept inside the house or an accessory building. Before starting, the owner files a consent agreement signed by owners of 75% of the properties within 300 feet; the permit lapses after 12 months of non-use (Silver Lake Code Sec. 16-703(j)).
Building permits
No building, fence or other structure may be erected, moved, added to or structurally altered in Silver Lake without a permit (Silver Lake Code Sec. 16-2401(b)).
Signs
Silver Lake’s sign rules are in Chapter XVI, Article 20 of the city code (Sections 16-2001 to 16-2005). Section 16-2002 bans off-premises advertising signs, and each zoning district has its own sign section (for example, 16-708 for the R district and 16-808 for R-1).
Lot size and setbacks
In the city’s “R” single-family district, each lot must be at least 10,000 square feet with an average width of at least 70 feet, with a 30-foot front yard, 6-foot side yards and a rear yard of 30 feet or 20% of lot depth, whichever is smaller (City Code §§ 16-704, 16-706). The stricter-lot “R-1” district allows 8,000-square-foot lots with a 25-foot front yard (§§ 16-804, 16-806).
Off-street parking required
Homes must provide 2 off-street parking spaces per dwelling unit, and a permitted home occupation needs 2 more spaces on top of that (City Code § 16-2101).
Moving a building onto a lot
A building or structure built somewhere other than on the lot cannot be moved into any zoning district unless it conforms to the zoning rules, and no accessory building may go up before the main building is built (City Code § 16-2201(d), (o)).
Driveway culverts
On dirt, sand or gravel streets the city may require a drainage culvert at a driveway entrance, sized to handle drainage, and the abutting property owner pays the full cost; installing a culvert crossing needs City Council approval. Placing stones, planks, dirt, sand or gravel in gutters or ditches is prohibited (City Code 13-101).
Dead or dangerous trees on private property
If the city gives written notice that a tree on your property is dead, diseased or dangerous, you must remove it at your own expense within 60 days (you may request a hearing within 30 days); otherwise the city can remove it and add the cost to your property tax bill. Branches over a street must clear 14 feet (City Code 13-306).
Digging in the street or right-of-way
Any excavation in a street, alley, sidewalk or other public property requires a permit from the City Clerk first (City Code 13-201). No planting is allowed within 10 feet of a fire hydrant (13-310).
Exotic and dangerous animals
Keeping poisonous reptiles or other dangerous wild animals (the code lists 28 prohibited species, including bears, big cats and wolves) is banned inside city limits, as is keeping a vicious animal (City Code 2-301 and 2-115). A property with more than four dogs counts as a kennel (2-101).
Sump pumps, downspouts and the sewer
Storm water, surface water, groundwater, roof runoff and foundation or subsurface drains may not be discharged into the city’s sanitary sewer; that water must go to a storm sewer or an approved natural outlet (Sections 15-417 and 15-418). After written notice and time to fix it, continued violation is a public offense and the owner is liable for the city’s resulting costs (Sections 15-436 to 15-438).
Yard waste, brush and composting
Refuse may not be buried anywhere in the city, but lawn and garden trimmings may be composted (Section 15-512(d)). Heavy or bulky items such as brush, tree limbs and broken concrete are disposed of at the owner’s expense (Section 15-510), and residential trash containers may not exceed 100 gallons (Section 15-505).
Insurance claims on badly damaged buildings
When an insured loss on a building exceeds 75% of the policy’s face value, the insurer must pay 15% of the covered claim to the City Treasurer, held until the damaged structure is repaired, secured or removed with debris cleared (Sections 8-801 and 8-805).
Unsafe and dangerous buildings
A petition from at least five residents can start the unsafe-structure process; the City Council sets a hearing by resolution, published twice with at least 30 days’ notice, then may order repair or demolition and have the city remove the structure if the owner doesn’t comply (Sections 8-304 to 8-309). Immediate hazards can be handled without prior notice (Section 8-312).
Overnight truck and trailer parking
Trucks or truck tractors of 12,000 pounds or more, farm tractors, trailers and semi-trailers may not sit on a city street for more than 30 minutes between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. (Sec. 14-107); government-owned vehicles are exempt. Police may also order an illegally parked trailer moved within two hours (Sec. 14-406).
Moving in
Silver Lake utility providers
Who to call to turn things on. Providers can vary by address, so confirm before closing.
Provider not named on the city page (FreeState Electric Cooperative serves the Silver Lake area)
785-478-3444 or 1-800-383-1183 (as listed by the city, without a provider name)
The city's utilities page lists these electric numbers but does not name the company. A June 23, 2026 WIBW report says FreeState Electric Cooperative serves Silver Lake-area customers from its Kiro substation, with Evergy supplying power to that metering point. Buyers should confirm the electric provider for a specific address.
Kansas Gas Service
The city lists this gas number. A separate city page confirms it belongs to Kansas Gas Service.
City of Silver Lake (City Hall)
City water and sewer, billed through City Hall at 218 W Railroad St. Some nearby rural addresses are served by Shawnee County Consolidated Rural Water District #2 (785-437-6466, 521 W. Bertrand, St. Marys).
Shawnee County Solid Waste
Recycling is picked up every other week in a blue-lid cart. The county's posted rate is $23/month for one trash cart for non-City-of-Topeka water customers. In March 2025 the county said a 2026 increase of about $1 was possible but not official.
Spectrum (formerly Cox): cable, with partial fiber; also fixed wireless, 5G and satellite options
BroadbandMap lists Spectrum/Cox cable at 100% coverage and fiber at 43%. Other options include KWIKOM, Kansas Broadband Internet, Twin Valley (fixed wireless), Brightspeed DSL, T-Mobile/Verizon/AT&T 5G home internet and Starlink. Availability varies by address. The city's page lists an internet/phone number (1-800-234-3993) without naming the provider.
Checked October 24, 2026. Sources listed at the bottom of this section group.
Local guide
Where to eat, shop and see a doctor
Named places in and near Silver Lake. Hours and ownership change, so call ahead. (Nobody paid to be on this list; we just like to eat.)
Where to eat
- Silver Lake Chinese Restaurant — Chinese restaurant at 207 W. Railroad St.; 785-582-5161.
- Avilas Mexican Restaurant — Mexican restaurant at 10025 NW US Highway 24. WIBW reported in 2023 that this building housed La Victoria, and before that Casa Hernandez. Confirm the current name before publishing.
Where to shop
- Dollar General — Everyday goods store at 10020 NW Highway 24; (785) 503-2122. It is the only store in the city's 'Where To Shop' directory.
- Silver Lake Farmers Market — Seasonal Tuesday-evening market (6 p.m.) at the Silver Lake Library, roughly June through early September, with homegrown and homemade goods.
Doctors & health care
- Michel Dental of Silver Lake — 400 S. Circle Drive, Silver Lake, (785) 582-0185. A dental office in town. Source →
- Stormont Vail Health Express Care Urish — 6725 SW 29th St., Topeka, (785) 270-0047. Walk-in care with X-ray, weekdays 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and weekends 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Source →
- Stormont Vail Hospital — 1500 SW 10th Ave., Topeka, (785) 354-6000. Open 24 hours with emergency and trauma care. Source →
- The University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus — 1700 SW 7th St., Topeka, (785) 295-7800. A 378-bed hospital. Source →
Living in Silver Lake
Silver Lake history, jobs and parks
A little history
The townsite was platted in February 1868 on donated land and incorporated as a city in spring 1871; the Union Pacific Railroad had reached town in 1866. The name is said to come either from the lake's clear, silvery water or from a white bird dog named "Silver." The highway through town opened in 1928 as the Victory Highway and later became US-40 and then US-24.
Where people work
Silver Lake sits on US-24 and is the nearest city west of Topeka. Local public employers include the City of Silver Lake (City Hall, Public Works and Police) and Silver Lake USD 372, which runs the town's elementary and junior/senior high schools. Verified data on the main private employers or commuting patterns was not found.
Parks & outdoors
- Silver Lake (the lake) — Natural oxbow lake on the west side of town, cut off from the Kansas River. It averages about 14 acres and is one of very few natural lakes in Kansas. Public fishing and boating are allowed, but there is no public boat ramp and swimming is prohibited.
- Kansas River (Kansas River Trail) — The Kansas River runs just south of town and is used for kayaking, canoeing, river camping and catfishing.
- City park (Lions Club park), with softball field and shelter house — The city code mentions a park given to the city by the Silver Lake Lions Club, plus a softball field and shelter house. The code does not give the park's name.
Sources for the city news, rules, utilities and local guide (checked October 27, 2026)
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- snco.gov
- broadbandmap.com
- silverlakeks.gov
- untappd.com
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakelibrary.org
- silverlakeks.gov
- en.wikipedia.org
- en.wikipedia.org
- silverlakeks.gov
- en.wikipedia.org
- travelks.com
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- swefcsrfswitchboard.unm.edu
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- admin.ks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- coronavirus.kdheks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
- silverlakeks.gov
Sales tax
How Silver Lake’s sales tax compares
Silver Lake’s combined state, county and city sales tax is 8.85% inside city limits, and 2.35% on groceries (Kansas dropped its state tax on food in 2025, so only local tax is left on groceries). Here is how that stacks up against nearby cities, lowest to highest. Same sandwich, different zip code, different receipt.
| City | County | Sales tax | Groceries |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emporia | Lyon | 8.5% | 2.0% |
| McLouth | Jefferson | 8.5% | 2.0% |
| Willard | Shawnee | 8.6% | 2.1% |
| Rossville | Shawnee | 8.85% | 2.35% |
| Silver Lake | Shawnee | 8.85% | 2.35% |
| Baldwin City | Douglas | 9.25% | 2.75% |
| Auburn | Shawnee | 9.35% | 2.85% |
| Lawrence | Douglas | 9.35% | 2.85% |
| Topeka | Shawnee | 9.35% | 2.85% |
| Eudora | Douglas | 9.5% | 3.0% |
| Lecompton | Douglas | 9.5% | 3.0% |
Source: Kansas Department of Revenue city rate file, October 2026. Homes outside city limits pay the county rate instead. Rates can differ by address, so check the KDOR address lookup before you budget. This is sales tax; property tax is in the tax history above.
Silver Lake FAQ
Silver Lake, KS: the questions people ask most
What county is Silver Lake, Kansas in?
Silver Lake is in Shawnee County, Kansas, northwest of Topeka, within the Topeka-area MLS.
What school district serves Silver Lake, KS?
Silver Lake is served by the Silver Lake School District (USD 372), including Silver Lake High School. Confirm the assignment for a specific address with the district.
What is the median home value in Silver Lake, KS?
The ACS median value of owner-occupied homes in Silver Lake is about $169,300.
How far is Silver Lake, KS from Topeka?
Silver Lake is a short drive northwest of Topeka, with a mean commute of about 20.6 minutes.
What is Silver Lake, KS named for?
Silver Lake is named for the nearby lake and sits in the Kansas River valley in Shawnee County.
What is the population of Silver Lake, KS?
1,345 at the 2020 U.S. Census, down from 1,439 in 2010. Source
Is there actually a lake in Silver Lake, Kansas?
Yes. Silver Lake is a natural oxbow lake on the west side of town, formed when the Kansas River changed course. It averages about 14 acres and can reach 40+ acres after heavy rain. It is open to the public for fishing and boating, but there is no public boat ramp and swimming is prohibited. Source
When does the Silver Lake City Council meet?
On the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall, 218 W. Railroad St. Source
What is the City of Silver Lake’s property tax rate?
The city’s 2026 budget notice proposed a city levy of 27.507 mills, down from an estimated 28.738 mills for 2025 and 29.988 mills in 2024. That is the city’s share only; county, school district and other levies are added to a property tax bill.
How do I get an item on the Silver Lake City Council agenda?
Call City Hall at 785-582-4280 before noon on the Friday before the meeting. You do not need to be on the agenda to attend, and public comment is taken at every meeting at City Hall, 218 W. Railroad St.
Where is Silver Lake City Hall?
Silver Lake City Hall is at 218 W. Railroad, Silver Lake, KS. City Council meetings and public hearings, such as the annual budget hearing, are held there.
Does Silver Lake have its own zoning and subdivision rules?
Yes. Chapter XVI of the Silver Lake city code covers zoning and planning, including a City Planning Commission, a Board of Zoning Appeals, zoning districts (A-1 agriculture; R, R-1, R-2 and R-3 residential; R-P community unit plan; M-P mobile home park; C-1 and C-2 commercial; I-1 and I-2 industrial), sign and parking rules, subdivision plat regulations and floodplain zoning (Article 42). Check with City Hall before building, splitting a lot or changing a property’s use.
Do I need a permit to build a fence or shed in Silver Lake, KS?
Yes. Silver Lake’s zoning code says no building, fence or other structure may be erected, moved, added to or structurally altered without a permit (Sec. 16-2401(b)). Fences are capped at 6.5 feet, and sheds must sit at least 2 feet from side and rear lot lines.
Can I run a business from my home in Silver Lake, KS?
Yes, as a home occupation under Sec. 16-703(j). You are limited to one employee, no outside signs, and no products sold on site. You must also file a consent agreement signed by owners of 75% of the properties within 300 feet.
What is the sales tax rate in Silver Lake?
8.85% inside city limits as of October 2026 (state, Shawnee County and city combined), and 2.35% on groceries (local tax only; Kansas dropped its state sales tax on food on Jan. 1, 2025). Nearby, rates run from 8.5% in Emporia to 9.5% in Lecompton. Rates can differ by address. Look up any address with the Kansas Department of Revenue rate locator. Source: Kansas Department of Revenue, October 2026.
Where can I read Silver Lake’s city code?
The City of Silver Lake posts its code book online on its City Codes page at silverlakeks.gov/city-codes. The code has 16 chapters, including Animal Control (Chapter II), Buildings and Construction (Chapter IV), Health and Welfare (Chapter VIII), Utilities (Chapter XV), and Zoning and Planning (Chapter XVI). Chapter XVI also covers subdivision rules and floodplain zoning.
How large is the City of Silver Lake’s annual budget?
The city’s published 2026 budget notice shows proposed expenditures of $2,039,245 across all funds ($1,967,700 net of transfers), with $385,380 to be raised from property taxes on an estimated assessed valuation of about $14.0 million. The estimated city tax rate for 2026 was 27.507 mills, down from 28.738 mills in 2025.
How do I appeal a zoning requirement in Silver Lake, KS?
Appeals of the requirements and restrictions in Silver Lake’s zoning ordinance go to the city’s Board of Zoning Appeals, which meets on an as-needed basis rather than on a fixed schedule. Board members must live within city limits, and one member also serves on the Planning Commission. Contact City Hall at 218 W. Railroad St. for application steps and any fees.
How often does the Silver Lake Planning Commission meet?
The Silver Lake Planning Commission holds hearings on an as-needed basis rather than on a regular monthly schedule. Upcoming hearings and recent meeting packets are posted on the Planning Commission page of silverlakeks.gov.
What is the minimum lot size for a house in Silver Lake, KS?
In the “R” single-family district the minimum is 10,000 square feet with an average width of 70 feet; the “R-1” district allows lots of 8,000 square feet (Silver Lake City Code §§ 16-704 and 16-804).
Are mobile homes allowed on residential lots in Silver Lake, KS?
The city’s residential district use lists do not include mobile or manufactured homes; the zoning code places them in the “M-P” mobile home park district (City Code Chapter XVI, § 16-1302). Check with City Hall at 785-582-4280 before buying a lot for one.
Who pays for a driveway culvert in Silver Lake, KS?
The property owner. Under City Code 13-101, the city may require a culvert where a driveway crosses a ditch on a dirt, sand or gravel street, and the abutting owner pays the full cost. Installing a culvert crossing requires City Council approval; call City Hall at 785-582-4280.
Does Silver Lake have floodplain building rules?
Yes. Chapter XVI, Article 42 of the Silver Lake City Code is a Floodplain Zoning article, which applies in addition to the regular zoning district rules. Check with City Hall (218 W. Railroad St., 785-582-4280) to find out whether a specific lot falls under it before building.
What happens to the insurance payout if a house in Silver Lake is heavily damaged?
If the insured loss is more than 75% of the policy’s face value, City Code Section 8-805 requires the insurer to send 15% of the covered claim to the City Treasurer. The city holds it until the building is repaired, secured or demolished and the debris removed.
Can I run my sump pump or downspouts into the sewer in Silver Lake, KS?
No. City Code Section 15-417 bars sending storm water, groundwater, roof runoff or foundation drain water into the sanitary sewer. Section 15-418 says that water must go to a storm sewer or an approved natural outlet.
Can I park a semi, large truck or trailer on the street overnight in Silver Lake, KS?
Not for long. Under Sec. 14-107 of the city code, trucks of 12,000 pounds or more, farm tractors, trailers and semi-trailers can stay on a city street for no more than 30 minutes between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Separately, any vehicle left in one spot on a street for more than 96 hours (four days) can be towed and impounded (Sec. 14-106).
What is Silver Lake’s 1% city sales tax for, and how long does it last?
On Nov. 7, 2023, the City of Silver Lake put a 1% city retailers’ sales tax on the ballot to pay for public services and for repairs, replacements and improvements to city infrastructure. Under the ballot question the tax runs for 10 years, starting April 1, 2024. The 1% city tax is part of the 8.85% combined rate the Kansas Department of Revenue lists for Silver Lake as of October 2026.
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates; local school district and municipal information. Wingman Real Estate — The Shopper Team does not warrant school assignments; verify boundaries directly with the district.
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