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Missouri, Greene County Remodeler Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

Greene County, Missouri Remodeling and Renovation Permit Requirements

1. Authority Having Jurisdiction: Greene County Building & Safety Division

The Greene County Resource Management Department, specifically the Building Regulations office, serves as the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for building permits in unincorporated areas of Greene County. They enforce adopted codes, including the 2018 International Building Code and the 2018 International Residential Code with Appendix J.

2. Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas

Greene County issues building permits exclusively for properties located in unincorporated areas of the county. If a property is within an incorporated city, that city's building department is responsible for permit issuance.

3. Permit Triggers for Demolition Work During a Remodel

A demolition permit is required before any demolition work can begin. A cash bond of $500 is required at the time of permit issuance, which is refundable upon meeting finalization requirements. These requirements include providing verification from public utilities that all meters and hookups have been removed or sealed, and a receipt from a licensed waste disposal unit documenting proper debris disposal. For wells being capped, a Well Plugging Registration Record must be submitted. Demolition permits have a three-month validity period, after which the cash bond may be forfeited.

4. Permit Requirements for Altering or Converting Non-Living Spaces

Converting non-living spaces such as garages, attics, or unfinished basements into habitable living areas generally requires a building permit. This is because the converted space must meet current residential and energy code requirements for safety and occupancy.

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Note: The following state-wide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Missouri, including Greene County.

Missouri Remodeler Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

Missouri State-Level Building Codes and Legislation for Remodelers and Residential Renovations

Missouri does not have a single, statewide building code. Instead, building codes are adopted and enforced at the local level by municipalities and counties. These local jurisdictions typically reference model codes from the International Code Council (ICC). The most commonly adopted versions of these codes in Missouri include the 2015 editions of the International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), International Existing Building Code (IEBC), International Plumbing Code (IPC), and International Mechanical Code (IMC). Some areas may also reference the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and the National Electrical Code (NEC), which are enforced locally. It is crucial for remodelers to verify the specific codes and any local amendments in effect with the local building department for their project's location. Some municipalities, like O'Fallon and Town and Country, have adopted the 2021 or 2024 editions of the International Existing Building Code, respectively.

The primary state board or agencies that set these standards are not centralized at the state level for building codes. Instead, the Division of Professional Registration supports various professional licensing boards and commissions responsible for regulating professions within the state. However, for building codes, enforcement and adoption are primarily handled by local building departments and officials.

Generally, the classification of remodels and when demolition guidelines apply are determined by local ordinances and the adopted building codes. The International Residential Code (IRC) and International Existing Building Code (IEBC) provide frameworks for alterations and repairs. Structural alterations, such as converting attics or basements to habitable spaces, typically require permits and are subject to more stringent requirements than cosmetic remodels. Demolition guidelines are also locally enforced and often require specific permits, advance notice to neighbors, and adherence to safety and debris removal protocols. For instance, some municipalities require a notice of intention to demolish to be sent to properties within 200 feet, and demolition must proceed continuously and be completed within a specified timeframe.

Missouri law broadly defines remodeling as any work that erects, demolishes, alters, or repairs improvements to a property. This includes kitchen and bathroom renovations, room additions, structural changes, and electrical, plumbing, and HVAC upgrades. For substantial renovations, Missouri statute defines it as modifications affecting at least fifty percent of the square footage of a building or costing at least fifty percent of the building's fair market value.

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Select a City in Greene County

If your project is located within incorporated city limits, you will likely need to follow municipal ordinances rather than county rules. Select your city below to view local regulations.

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