The Engineering Division plans, designs, and manages Kirkwood's public infrastructure while reviewing development projects, issuing permits, inspecting construction, and protecting the City's stormwater systems. Whether you're a resident, contractor, or developer, our team is here to help guide your project from application through final inspection.

Visit Us

The Engineering Division is located on the lower level of Kirkwood City Hall:

139 S. Kirkwood Road
Kirkwood, MO 63122Phone: 314-822-5822

How Can We Help?

Visit or contact the Engineering Division for assistance with:

• 🏠 Driveway Permits
• 🚧 Excavation Permits
• 🅿️ Parking Lot Permits (requires site plan review by the Planning & Zoning Division)
• 📐 Grading Permits
• 🌳 Forestry Permits and Tree Protection Requirements
• 🛣️ Public Street & Easement Vacation Procedures
• 📋 Engineering permit requirements and inspections
• 🌧️ Stormwater and Best Management Practice (BMP) requirements

To report hazardous sidewalks, roadway maintenance issues, or have traffic concerns using KirkwoodKonnect.

For concerns related to MoDOT maintained routes such as Kirkwood Road and Manchester Road, contact MoDOT at 888-ASK-MODOT.

Issues with St. Louis County maintained routes, including Adams Avenue and Big Bend Road, can be reported to the St. Louis County Department of Transportation at 314-615-8535.

For utility locates, Missouri One-Call manages these requests, and residents can perform a ticket search to find more information about the utility markings on their property. Call 8-1-1 or visit Missouri811 to place a locate request.

Use our new portal to apply for a permit

Driveway Permit Excavation Permit Parking Lot Permit (requires site plan review by the Planning & Zoning Division.) Grading Permit Vacation Procedures for Public Streets & Easements

The timeline below outlines the permitting process for Driveway, Excavation, Grading, and Parking Lot permits, from application through final inspection and permit closeout.

Stormwater BMP(Best Management Practices)Permitting Process

If your project requires Stormwater BMP (Best Management Practices), additional permitting, recording, and inspection requirements apply. Follow the timeline below to complete the BMP permitting process.

Helpful Reminders

Inspection Scheduling

• Engineering inspections must be requested at least 48 hours in advance through the Kirkwood Submittal Portal.
• Requesting an inspection does not guarantee your preferred date or time. Your inspection will be scheduled based on inspector availability.
• Engineering inspections are not conducted on Thursdays, as inspectors are performing other field work throughout the City.

Important

• Keep your contact information up to date throughout the life of the project.
• Property owners are responsible for maintaining BMPs in accordance with the recorded BMP Maintenance Agreement.
• Failure to complete required inspections may delay project closeout or result in additional inspections and associated fees.

Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers!

Before reaching out, be sure to visit the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) at the bottom of the Engineering page. You’ll find answers to many common questions, along with helpful tips and information about permits, inspections, and other Engineering services.

A quick visit to our FAQs may provide the answer you’re looking for and help save you time!

_{Updated: July 17, 2026}

Engineering Inspections

✅ Schedule at least 48 hours in advance

📅 Thursday inspections are not available

⚠️ Requesting a date does not guarantee that appointment

✔ Check the portal for your scheduled inspection date

Schedule Inspection → Kirkwood Submittal Portal

_{Updated: July 17, 2026}

Standard Detail Drawings

The Department of Public Services maintains a library of standard detail drawings for use on all public infrastructure projects within the City. These details establish the minimum design and construction requirements for improvements built within public rights-of-way, easements, and other City-owned property.

What Are Standard Detail Drawings?

Standard detail drawings are pre-approved technical illustrations showing how specific infrastructure elements must be designed and constructed. They provide dimensions, materials, and construction requirements for common conditions so that engineers, contractors, and developers can design projects that meet City standards without submitting a custom detail for routine work.

Standard details are typically required for:

• Street and pavement sections
• Curb, gutter, and sidewalk construction
• Storm drainage structures and pipe bedding
• Sanitary sewer and water main connections
• ADA-compliant curb ramps and pedestrian facilities
• Utility trenching and restoration
• Traffic control devices and signage placement

Who Needs to Use These Details

Standard detail drawings apply to:

• Engineers preparing plans for submittal to the City for review and approval
• Contractors performing work within the public right-of-way
• Developers constructing public infrastructure as part of a private development
• Utility companies performing excavation or installation work on City property

Any project involving construction, repair, or alteration of public infrastructure must conform to the applicable standard details unless a deviation has been reviewed and approved in writing by the City Engineer.

How to Access the Standard Details

The current standard detail drawings are available for download below. Details are organized by category and are periodically updated to reflect changes in code requirements, materials standards, and City policy.

Please confirm you are using the most recently published version before beginning design. Older versions may not reflect current code requirements and will not be accepted for permit review.

Requesting a Deviation

If a project condition cannot be met using an existing standard detail, applicants may submit a request for an alternative design. Deviation requests must include:

1. A description of the condition and why a standard detail cannot be applied
2. A proposed alternative detail, sealed by a licensed engineer where required
3. Supporting design calculations, if applicable

Deviation requests are reviewed by the Department of Public Works and may require additional review time. Applicants are encouraged to submit deviation requests as early as possible in the design process.

Questions

For questions about standard detail drawings, applicable requirements, or the submittal process, contact the Department of Public Services, Engineering Division.

_{Updated: July 30, 2026}

The Street Code Issues Team (SCIT) is a collaborative group composed of key City personnel, including the City Engineer, Community Services Officer, and Traffic Division Supervisor. This team operates under the guidance of the Police Chief and the Public Services Director, ensuring comprehensive oversight. According to City Ordinance, the City Engineer serves as the City Traffic Engineer, responsible for determining the appropriate placement and installation of traffic control devices throughout Kirkwood.

SCIT convenes regularly, typically on a monthly basis during standard working hours. After each meeting, reports and recommendations are made available to the public on this platform.

To facilitate an accurate assessment of requests by the Street Code Issues Team, please ensure you complete the relevant form for your specific inquiry. Your participation helps us maintain and improve our city's traffic management and public safety.

• To request Speed Limit Sign, Speed Study, No Parking Sign, or Crosswalk Evaluation, fill out this form.

• To request Public Pedestrian Sidewalks, fill out this form.

• Click Here to view SCIT Reports

Street Maintenance & Pavement Management

Keeping Kirkwood's streets safe and in good condition is an ongoing priority. The Engineering Division uses a proactive pavement management program to maintain streets before they require costly repairs or full reconstruction.

How We Evaluate Our Streets

In 2015, the City completed its first comprehensive pavement study to evaluate the condition of every City-owned street. This study helped establish a long-term plan for maintaining and improving Kirkwood's roadway network.

To keep this information current, the City uses advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to assess street conditions.

• 2024: Every City-owned street was recorded using specialized video equipment. AI software analyzed the footage to identify pavement issues such as potholes, cracks, and previous pavement repairs.
• 2026: The City completed another citywide pavement assessment using updated AI technology to provide the most current street condition information.

Find Your Street's Condition

Want to know how your street is rated?

Click to view your street's Pavement Condition Index (PCI) rating.

Click to view a city wide map of PCI ratings.

How Streets Are Selected for Resurfacing

Each year, the Engineering Division reviews pavement data and selects streets for resurfacing. Streets are typically chosen during the fall so construction can be completed the following summer, when school is out and traffic impacts are reduced whenever possible.

When selecting streets for resurfacing, the City considers several factors, including:

1. 🛣️ Overall pavement condition
2. 🏫 Proximity to schools and parks
3. 🚗 Traffic volume and roadway use

Investing in Kirkwood's Streets

Since the pavement management program began, the City has:

• ✔️ Resurfaced more than 180 streets
• 💰 Invested nearly $18 million in street improvements
• 🏗️ Completed asphalt resurfacing, concrete street repairs, and concrete slab replacements throughout the community

By investing in preventive maintenance today, the City extends the life of its streets, reduces long-term repair costs, and helps provide safer, smoother roads for everyone.

Completed Street Projects 2021 to 2024 (Click on map graphic to enlarge):

>

Completed Street Projects 2015 to 2020 (Click on map graphic to enlarge):

 _{Updated: August 11, 2026}

A Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon, or PHB, is a traffic signal used at mid-block crosswalks or intersections to provide a safer crossing for pedestrians. Also referred to as HAWK signal, a PHB differs from a pre-timed traffic signal or flashing beacon because it remains inactive or "dark" until activated by a pedestrian. This can help increase driver attention to pedestrians crossing the roadway, and can reduce rear-end collisions. PHB’s may be implemented when an engineering study demonstrates there is a high pedestrian demand to cross a roadway without enough adequate traffic gaps to safely cross. View, print or share this PHB Flyer with your friends and neighbors.

Locations in Kirkwood:

• Kirkwood Road, near Hollywood Lane
• Geyer Road, at Keysor Elementary School
• Craig and Craigwoods
   

Benefits of PHBs

• 69 percent reduction in pedestrian crashes and 29 percent reduction in total crashes
• Reduces dangerous driver violations at pedestrian crossings
• Reduces the amount of rear-end vehicle crashes when compared to traditional traffic signals
• Reduces the amount of driver delay experienced at traditional traffic signals by as much as 50 percent, while still providing a clear indication to stop for pedestrians.
• Provides an option for a signalized pedestrian crossing when a traffic signal is not warranted

PHB Operation

Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFB's)

The City of Kirkwood has 2 locations of RRFB's that are typically warranted on cross walks with higher pedestrian volumes, but with a lower amount of vehicle traffic. 

Locations in Kirkwood:

• Clinton & Filmore near Fillmore Park
• S Geyer at Windsor Lane
• North Geyer at Jefferson
• South Geyer at Nirk

Click here for more information about PHBs.

This is the FINAL Citywide Stormwater Master Plan, developed by HR Green, identifies and prioritizes municipal stormwater issues for future consideration. The plan provides the city and design professionals with analytical tools to address stormwater challenges better, manage runoff, and support improved stormwater design throughout the community.

Please note: City Council must approve any code or ordinance change recommendations.

Final Kirkwood Citywide Stormwater Master Plan - Intro

Appendix A - Storm System Ownership Maps

Appendix B - MSD-Studied Stormwater Projects in Kirkwood

Appendix C - Preliminary Flood Hazard Maps

Appendix D - Flow Path and Watershed Maps

Appendix E - Stream Buffer Maps

Appendix F - Public Outreach Materials

Appendix G - Questionnaire Responses

Appendix H - Summary of Questionnaire Responses

Appendix  I - Problem Investigative Material

Appendix J - Capital Improvement Project Workbooks

Appendix K - Road Drainage Projects Map

Appendix L - Stormwater Code Review Memo

Stormwater Concerns 

For many years the City of Kirkwood has been a popular community for residential and commercial development in the St. Louis area. Land development permanently alters the way in which stormwater flows across a site due to grading, compaction, and the installation of impervious cover. In an attempt to reduce these impacts, the City of Kirkwood requires stormwater management measures be utilized on major development projects in accordance with Municipal Code Chapter 5, Article VI Infill Development Storm Water Management. These regulations are in addition to the requirements of the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (MSD). 

These measures aim to reduce the amount of runoff created by development through Green Infrastructure, also known as  stormwater BMPs. The City acknowledges these regulations will not solve all stormwater related issues within the City; however, this is a reasonable effort to reduce impacts of development on stormwater.

Applicable projects meeting or exceeding the thresholds for impervious area in the ordinance will be required to provide stormwater BMPs to treat the increased runoff.  The City has developed a guidance manual to assist property owners with selecting, sizing, and locating the necessary BMPs, as well as standard details for installation.  For more information about the regulations, please contact Assistant City Engineer Jennifer Brown at 314-822-5846 or search the sections below.

• Applicable Projects
• MSD Review
• Stormwater Management Requirements
• Inspections
• Fees and Escrows
• Stormwater Guidance Manual and Checklists
• Sump Pump

Applicable Projects

Regulated Infill Development subject to review for stormwater management in accordance with Chapter 5, Article VI Infill Development Storm Water Management include, but is not limited to:

• New Construction and Redevelopment
• Building Additions
• Accessory Structures
• Swimming Pools
• Driveway Expansions or Addition

MSD Review

All commercial and multi-family projects or any project disturbing 1 acre or more are required to submit development plans to the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (MSD). The City may also require MSD review of residential projects with any of the following conditions. 

MSD Conditions for Review 

Stormwater Management Requirements 

Regulated Infill Development with the following conditions is required to provide stormwater management techniques in compliance with Chapter 5, Article VI Infill Development Storm Water Management:

1. Developments creating 1,000 square feet or more of net additional impervious area.
2. Developments causing the total impervious area on a lot to be greater than 25% of the total lot area.

Projects that require stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) mandated by the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (MSD) are not subject to the aforementioned requirements. However, projects that require stormwater BMPs by the City of Kirkwood must record a notarized BMP Maintenance Agreement along with the approved site plan at the St. Louis County Recorder of Deeds office.

After receiving approved and stamped plans from the City, you must schedule an appointment with the City to have the City of Kirkwood's section of the Maintenance Agreement notarized. This can be arranged by emailing Schultjm@kirkwoodmo.org or by calling Jill Potts at 314.822.5822. Please note that walk-in appointments are no longer accepted.

Inspections

Once the City has a copy of the Recorded BMP Maintenance Agreement on file, the City will inspect the BMP's during construction and provide maintenance inspections at the following intervals:

• 1 year post construction
• Every 3 years
• At change of occupancy

Maintenance of the BMPs is the responsibility of the property owner.

Fees and Escrows

No additional permit fees are required. A $1,000 construction deposit is required for projects that don't require the $5,000 site restoration deposit. The 2023 manual is being applied to all permit reviews received (dated) after November 21, 2023. The 2022 Guidance Manual has been archived below.

Stormwater Guidance Manual and Checklists

The City has developed the following manuals and checklists to aid property owners in the design, installation and maintenance of required stormwater BMPs. The 2023 Guidance Manual is being applied to all permit reviews received (dated) after November 21, 2023. The 2022 Guidance Manual has been archived below.

• Stormwater Management Guidance Manual Complete Manual
  • Cover Page
  • Table of Contents
  • Introduction
  • Dry Wells
  • Vegetated Filter Strips
  • Modified French Drain
  • Permeable Pavers
  • Rain Garden
  • Existing Tree Credit
  • Appendix A - Infiltration Testing
  • Appendix B - Recommended Plantings
  • Appendix C - Flow Area Calculation
  • Appendix D - Underdrains
  • Appendix E - Pre-treatment
  • Appendix F - Ordinance
  • Appendix G - Stormwater Review Process
  • Appendix H - Stormwater Pollution Prevention for Small Residential Construction Sites
• BMP Maintenance Agreement
• Maintenance and Inspection Checklists
• Site Plan Development Checklist
• Site Plan Review and Permitting Process Flowchart 

Sump Pumps

All projects which include the installation of sump pumps or existing sump pumps with discharges causing a nuisance per Chapter 16 Section 2 of the Kirkwood Code of Ordinances must discharge to one of the following BMPs per the Infill Development Storm Water Guidance Document:

1. Drywell sized to treat a minimum of 175 square feet of contributing  drainage area and located a minimum of 10’ from any property line, or
2. Vegetated filter strip sized to treat a minimum of 175 square feet of contributing drainage area and sump pump discharge located a minimum of 20’ from any property line

These are minimum requirements and property owners are encouraged to engage professionals to adequately size their systems. If a nuisance develops or continues to exist, the homeowner will be required to correct the issue.

Updated: May 26, 2025

EnVision Kirkwood 2035 Comprehensive Plan, Action Step 3.B.1. recommends evaluating and updating current criteria and creating a procedure for the implementation of appropriate traffic calming techniques within the City. Kirkwood’s residents stated their expectations for streets to be pedestrian–oriented and safe. Traffic Calming is one tool the City may employ to meet these expectations.

Interested in traffic calming in your neighborhood? Please contact Richard Holesinger, City Engineer, at Holesire@kirkwoodmo.org for more information or to submit a request.

^{Updated August 21, 2026}

General Questions:  Call Jill Potts at 314-822-5822 

To schedule inspections for Engineering (Driveway, Excavations, Right-of-Way, Grading & Parking Lot) or Forestry (Tree Protection for Demolition, New Construction & Final) please use the Kirkwood Submittal Portal. 

Rick Holesinger, PE - City Engineer, 314-822-5819 | holesire@kirkwoodmo.org

Jennifer Brown, PE - Assistant City Engineer, 314-822-5846 | brownjd@kirkwoodmo.org

Jamal Dillahunt - Project Engineer, 314-822-5821 | dillahjl@kirkwoodmo.org

Brandon Sly - Urban Forester, 314-984-5954 | slybm@kirkwoodmo.org

Jill Potts - Administrative Assistant to the Director of Public Services & Engineering, 314-822-5822 | Schultjm@kirkwoodmo.org

 ENGINEERING PERMIT APPLICATIONS FAQ

 1. What types of permits are issued by the Engineering Division?

The Engineering Division issues permits for the following:

• Driveway Permits
• Excavation (Right-of-Way) Permits
• Grading Permits
• Parking Lot Permits
• Floodplain Development Permits
• Public Street and Easement Vacations

Some projects might also need review by the Building Division, Planning & Zoning Division, Forestry Division, MSD, or other agencies. You may need outside review if your project affects public infrastructure, changes land use or zoning, impacts trees, or includes large-scale grading or stormwater work. If you are unsure whether your project needs review from another department or agency, contact the Engineering Division for help before applying.

2. How do I apply for an Engineering permit?

You can submit your application online using the City of Kirkwood Public Portal. The portal lets you upload plans and documents, track your permit status, get review comments, and schedule inspections.

• Submit permit applications
• Upload plans and supporting documents.
• Track permit status
• Receive review comments
• Schedule inspections

3. What documents are typically required?

Depending on the type of permit, you may need to provide the following documents. Each should be clear and complete to help your review go faster. If you need help or want to see templates, contact the Engineering Division or visit the City's permit forms webpage.

Site plan (shows property boundaries, structures, proposed work, and relevant features)

Site survey (an official measurement of property lines and features from a licensed surveyor)

Grading plan (proposed changes to existing and finished ground elevations)

Drainage plan (demonstrates how stormwater will flow or be managed onsite)

Erosion and sediment control plan (shows measures to prevent soil, mud, and debris from leaving the site)

Construction details (technical drawings or notes describing construction methods and materials)

Traffic control plan (explains how public or worker safety will be maintained and how traffic will be managed during construction)

Utility information (location and type of any new, existing, or relocated utilities)

Contractor information (names, licenses, and contact details for responsible contractors)

Applicable engineering calculations (supporting calculations for drainage, grading, or structures, as required). We may ask for more information during the review process.

4. How long does a permit review take?

How long it takes to review your permit depends on:

• Completeness of the application.
• The number of reviews required for the applicant to address the city's comments.
• Outside agency approvals

How long it takes to review your permit depends on:

If you submit a complete application, your review will go faster. The city aims to review documents within 12 business days. Most permits are reviewed and approved within 2 to 4 weeks if the application is complete and outside approvals are not required. However, if there are corrections to address or if approvals from other departments or agencies are needed, the process can take 4 to 6 weeks or longer. Common delays include missing documents, incomplete responses to comments, or waiting for third-party reviews. Plan ahead and allow extra time if your project is complex or needs additional approvals.

5. Why was my application placed on hold?

The most common reasons include:

• Incomplete application
• Missing contractor information
• No activity on the permit in over 6 months, so the application has expired and will need to be resubmitted for review.

You will get review comments through the permitting portal.

6. Can construction begin before my permit is approved?

No.

You cannot start work until your permit is issued, all required deposits and fees are paid, and any needed preconstruction meetings are finished.

• Required deposits and fees have been paid.
• Any required preconstruction meetings have been completed.

If you start work without a permit, you may get a stop-work order or face enforcement action.

7. Do I need a permit to replace my driveway?

Yes.

You need an Engineering permit for any driveway construction, replacement, widening, or relocation, even if you are not working in the right-of-way.

8. When is an Excavation Permit required?

An Excavation Permit is required whenever work disturbs the public street, sidewalk, alley, or public right-of-way, including utility installations, repairs, pavement cuts, and similar work.

9. When is a Grading Permit required?

You usually need a Grading Permit if your earthwork changes how water drains, changes the ground level, or disturbs enough land as defined by City rules.

10. When is a Parking Lot Permit required?

You need a Parking Lot permit to build, expand, or make major changes to a commercial parking lot. If you change the size or number of spaces, you usually need Planning & Zoning site plan approval before Engineering review. Most maintenance projects, except asphalt sealing, also need a parking lot permit.

11. Will I need stormwater management?

All development projects in the city must follow the City’s stormwater rules. Right now, if you add more than 1,000 square feet or your site is over 25% covered by hard surfaces, you must provide stormwater mitigation. You may also need mitigation if MSD says your area is surcharged.

12. What inspections are required?

Inspection requirements vary by project but commonly include:

• Erosion control inspection
• Preconstruction inspection
• Initial BMP inspection
• Utility department inspection
• Subgrade inspection
• Concrete inspection
• Asphalt inspection
• Final BMP inspection
• Final Engineering inspection

13. How do I schedule an inspection?

Through Kirkwood’s Online Portal.

When submitting an inspection request, please note that you are requesting your preferred date and time. While we make every effort to accommodate requests, inspection appointments are scheduled based on inspector availability and cannot be guaranteed. After submitting your request, please check the portal for the scheduled inspection date and time.

14. What happens if the work does not pass inspection?

If your work does not pass inspection, the inspector will give you a list of what needs to be fixed. You must make these corrections before you can continue work or get final approval.

15. Are construction deposits required?

Most Excavation permits require a refundable deposit to ensure the work is completed and public property is restored.

However, Under Ord. No. 20-118 subsection h: Failure of the applicant to call for the final inspection within one year of the issuance date of the permit shall result in the deposit being forfeited by the applicant, and said deposit shall be paid to the City Treasury as general revenue.

16. Do I need utility locates before digging?

Yes.

Missouri law says you must contact Missouri 811 before you dig so underground utilities can be located.

17. What if my project is located in a floodplain?

If your project is in a Special Flood Hazard Area, it will need extra review. You may also need a Floodplain Development Permit, an Elevation Certificate, a No-Rise Certification (if needed), or floodplain engineering documents.

• Floodplain Development Permit
• Elevation Certificate
• No-Rise Certification (where applicable)
• Floodplain engineering documentation

18. Will I need other approvals?

Maybe.

Depending on your project, approvals may also be required from:

• Kirkwood Building Division
• Kirkwood Planning & Zoning
• Kirkwood Architectural Review Board
• Kirkwood Forestry Division
• Kirkwood Fire Department
• Kirkwood Electric Department
• Kirkwood Public Services Water Division
• Missouri Department of Transportation
• Saint Louis County Department of Transportation
• Saint Louis Metropolitan Sewer District

19. Who is responsible for maintaining stormwater BMPs?

After construction, property owners must maintain all required stormwater BMPs. If your project needs a BMP for stormwater, you will have a recorded BMP Maintenance Agreement, and the City will inspect it in year 1, year 3, and every 3 years thereafter.

20. Who can I contact if I have an Engineering permitting question?

Engineering Division

City of Kirkwood

139 South Kirkwood Road

Kirkwood, MO 63122

Phone: (314) 822-5822

The Engineering Division staff can help you with questions about permit requirements, how to apply, inspections, and engineering standards.

Tips for a Faster Approval

• Submit complete applications.
• Upload legible, to-scale plans.
• Respond promptly to review comments.
• Schedule inspections early.
• Do not begin work before the permit is issued.
• Coordinate with utility companies before construction.
• Keep approved plans available on the job site.

This FAQ matches the City’s current Engineering Division processes and the online permitting portal.

Date: July 13, 2026