Before performing any demolition or construction work legally, you must have a building permit. A building permit is obtained by presenting the required drawings to a plan reviewer at the Building Division. The plan reviewer examines the drawings to determine whether they conform to all applicable codes. If significant changes are required or required information is missing, the permit will be denied.

Permit Process Flowchart - Outlines the process of getting a general building permit for a renovation project.

Projects in locally ordinanced historic districts where you are performing any exterior work must be reviewed by the Cultural Resources Office before you apply for your building permit. In the case where you are performing significant exterior work or want to do something out of the ordinary, you are incouraged to have an informal preliminary review with CRO staff. At this meeting, you should show them your preliminary drawings and ask for their input - meeting early in the process allows for any changes required by the CRO to be incorporated into the drawings. The Cultural Resources Office is located at the 11th floor of the 1015 Locust building downtown.

Other requirements may apply if your property is within a designated redevelopment district or if you are asking for a zoning variance or zoning relief..

The Community Information Network maintains a web site for the St. Louis City Building Division. This web site contains information on the drawing requirements for various projects as well as general permitting information.

You will be responsible for performing the work indicated on the drawings and it will periodically be verified by a building inspector. The building inspector must be called at a minimum before work starts, after framing, after drywall, and for the final occupancy inspection.

The Building Permit covers general layout, structural, finish, and life-safety issues. Separate permits are required for any electrical, plumbing and HVAC work performed. The subcontractors are usually responsible for acquiring the appropriate permits and arranging for the appropriate trade inspections when required.

The fee for a building permit is determined as a percentage of construction cost plus standard administrative costs. You should expect your permit for a gut renovation to cost between $400 and $1000 depending on the scope of work. If your project is over $30,000, the occupancy inspection and occupancy certificate are included in the permit cost. The permit fee covers the costs of the plan review process and the inspections.

A building permit is typically good for six months but your building inspector may grant extensions. It is worthwhile to establish a good working relationship with the building inspector in your area. Call him or her to update on progress when requested, arrange all inspections at the appropriate times, and clearly demonstrate your intention to abide by all regulations.