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What is a Building Permit?
A building permit is a license which grants legal permission to start construction of a building project.  

What Construction Projects Need Building Permits?
Check with the Building Department for the requirements in this area.  Building permits are typically required for the following:

The Purpose of Permits
Permits allow the enforcement of the codes which have been adopted as law by a state, county, township or city.  No matter what the specific project may be, the enforcement of codes is carried out to protect the public health, safety and welfare.  The unit of government which enforces the code is acting to assure safe construction.

The Use of Permits
Code officials and inspectors use building permits as a vital step in their enforcement of codes.  You have an investment in the home or business you are about to build or remodel.  When that home or business building does not comply with the codes, your investment could be reduced.  Applying for a building permit notifies the Code Official that you are constructing or remodeling a building so he or she can ensure code compliance.

Why a Building Permit?
Building permits provide the means for Code Officials to protect us by reducing the potential hazards of unsafe construction and therefore ensuring the public health, safety and welfare.  The building permit process helps us understand what our local laws and ordinances are.  Before any construction or remodeling work begins, application for a permit should be made.  Building permits provide the means for Code Officials to inspect construction to ensure that minimum standards are met and appropriate materials are used.

What Codes are Currently Enforced?

The codes the City of Kirkwood Building Commissioner's Office are enforcing are:

2003 International Residential Code

2003 International Building Code

2003 International Mechanical Code

2003 International Plumbing Code

2002 National Electrical Code

2003 International Fire Prevention Code

2003 International Fuel Gas Code

2002 St. Louis County Electrical Code (except one & two Family Dwellings)

St. Louis County Mechanical Code for Elevators & Amusement Rides

2003 International Property Maintenance Code

Please call the Building Commissioner's Officer for further information regarding these codes at 314-822-5814.

Online Application Forms

Print off the PDF files below to make your application process easier once you arrive at City Hall.

Building Permit Application
       Single Family Site Plan Review Worksheet
       Single Family Site Plan Review Alternate Worksheet (for detached
       garages, detached garage additions, sheds, accessory structures)

Contractor's License Application

Demolition Permit Application

Excavation Permit Application