St. Louis places building-code enforcement and zoning administration within the Building Division of the Department of Public Safety. The division issues building and trade permits, reviews plans, conducts inspections, and checks projects for zoning compliance. Building permit applications can be started online, while the Zoning Section determines whether proposed uses are allowed by right or require a Conditional Use hearing or appeal to the Board of Adjustment.
Historic preservation can substantially change the permit path. The Cultural Resources Office reviews exterior alterations, new construction, and demolition affecting City Landmarks and properties in local historic districts. Applications in these areas are automatically referred from the Building Division, and a permit cannot be issued until the Cultural Resources Office or Preservation Board grants the required approval.
Floodplain location creates another layer of review. Construction within areas identified by FEMA floodway or flood-hazard mapping requires a Floodway Development Permit even when the underlying work would not otherwise need a building permit. Property owners should therefore check both zoning and flood status before finalizing project plans.
Public right-of-way permits are divided among several City functions. The Street Department handles excavation and certain street or sidewalk activities, while the Board of Public Service issues Public Improvement and encroachment permits for qualifying construction or private structures within City right-of-way. Applicants can begin with the City’s Building Division and then identify any historic, floodplain, zoning, or public-way approvals that apply.