Available Commercial Building Permit Types

Overview

A building permit is required when any structural change or major alteration is made to an existing building or when any new construction is undertaken. Normal building maintenance does not require a building permit in most instances, but it's best to check and see if your type of work is listed as requiring a permit. Separate permits for plumbing, mechanical and electrical work are also required when applicable.

There are different rules for properties in historic districts or flood zones.

Permit Types

Cellular Antenna

The new installation of a cellular antenna requires a building permit, even if on an existing tower. A like-for-like replacement of an existing antenna does not require a building permit. If your project is to construct a new cellular tower, you should switch your Project Type to New Construction.

In addition to a building permit to install the system, a licensed electrical contractor must obtain an electrical permit for the safe installation and connection into the existing electrical system.

Deck/Porch

If you're adding or replacing a deck on your property, you'll need a building permit. The process involves gathering details about your property and deck, drawing them out to scale (like a mini-map and cross-section), and submitting everything with your online application.

Fence

A fence requires a permit to ensure it follows local zoning and safety rules. The city reviews fence permit applications against codes (like height limits and footing depths for stability), and if approved, you get the permit to build. 

Fire Alarm

The new construction/installation of a fire alarm system requires a building permit. In addition to a building permit to install the system, a licensed electrical contractor must obtain an electrical permit for the safe installation and connection into the existing electrical system.

Fire Sprinkler

The new construction/installation of a fire sprinkler system requires a building permit. In addition to a building permit to install the system, a licensed fire protection contractor must obtain a mechanical permit.

Interior/Exterior Alterations

Most interior/exterior alteration projects require permitting, particularly if they impacting load-bearing walls or structure elements. If you have any questions regarding your project or if it requires a permit, you may view the City Building Codes.

New Construction

All new construction projects require a Building Permit that adheres to all applicable City Building Codes.

Parking Lot

Newly paved parking lots or expanded existing parking lots require a Building Permit. Reconfiguration of existing parking lot layouts also require a Building Permit to ensure parking spaces and drive aisles are of the correct size, spacing, and location as to adhere to Code. Repaving, resurfacing and/or restriping of existing parking lots does not require a permit, if the parking lot layout does not change.

Retaining Wall

If you're building a retaining wall 18 inches or higher to manage slopes on your property, you'll need a building permit. The process involves gathering details about your property and wall, drawing them out to scale (like a site map and section), and submitting everything with your online application. Expect to spend time measuring the site, sketching on paper, and uploading scans. 

Signs and Awnings

If you're installing or modifying a sign on your property or building, you'll need a building permit from the City of St. Louis to ensure it meets local safety and zoning rules. This is different from a Banner Permit from the Board of Public Service, which issues permits only for banners affixed to City light poles.

Solar Panel

The new construction/installation of solar panels requires a building permit. In addition to a building permit to install the solar panel system, a licensed electrical contractor must obtain an electrical permit for the safe installation and connection into the existing electrical system.

Swimming Pool

If you're installing a swimming pool on your property, you'll need a building permit from the City of St. Louis to ensure it meets local safety and zoning rules. The city reviews your permit application against codes (like barriers and setbacks), and if approved, you get the permit to build. You will also need a separate Health Department permit.

Temporary Structure (stage)

If you're erecting a temporary stage, platform, reviewing stand, bleacher, or event structure for performances, events, or presentations outside permanent buildings, you'll need a building permit. The process involves a letter of request, sealed engineering plans/analysis. We recommend starting the process at least 3 months early for first-time events.

Tent

If you're setting up a temporary tent for events, sales, or gatherings on your property, you'll need a building permit from the City of St. Louis to ensure it meets local safety and fire codes. A tent permit is required for any tents that exceed 800 square feet, block an exit or right of way, or will be erected for more than 180 days. 

Contact

Contact the Building Division Permit Section if you have questions.