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

Scott County Building & Safety Division

The Scott County Building Inspections Department is responsible for enforcing zoning and building code regulations in the county's eleven townships to ensure building safety and protect community character. They manage the Minnesota State Building Codes within these townships. For the most efficient service, it is recommended to review all ePermit and specific application requirements before applying. The county offers an ePermit system for online applications, payment, and document management. If you encounter issues with the ePermit portal, technical support is available via phone, or you can schedule an in-person appointment.

Unincorporated Areas

For properties in unincorporated areas of Scott County, the County Building Inspections Department acts as the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). They enforce zoning and building codes to ensure safety and maintain community standards. Specific instructions and application requirements for permits can be found on the Building Inspections website.

Demolition Work During a Remodel

A building permit is generally required for any work that involves demolition, alteration, repair, conversion, or change of use of a building or structure. This includes demolition work as part of a remodel. Additionally, if demolition work will disturb soil on a construction site, a Land Disturbance Permit may be required in conjunction with the building permit from the State of Missouri. After demolition, the site must be cleared of debris, graded for drainage, and have silt control in place before a final inspection. For commercial buildings, an asbestos inspection by a Missouri-Certified Inspector is required prior to demolition. Disposal of demolition materials must comply with Missouri Department of Natural Resources regulations, typically requiring transport to a demolition or sanitary landfill.

Converting Non-Living Spaces to Habitable Areas

A building permit is required to convert non-living spaces such as garages, attics, or unfinished basements into habitable living areas. Depending on the scope of work, separate electrical, plumbing, or mechanical permits may also be necessary. It is recommended to consult with Development Services Center (DSC) staff early in the planning process to discuss zoning and building code requirements. Existing conditions in these spaces, such as ceiling heights, window sizes, stair configurations, and insulation, must meet current building code standards for finished spaces. Specific requirements for habitable space include a minimum floor area of 70 square feet, with specific dimensions and ceiling height minimums (e.g., 6'8" for basements). Egress windows or exterior doors are mandatory for basements with living space and sleeping rooms. For garage conversions, ensuring adequate on-site parking may be a requirement. Detached garages may also need to meet setback requirements and potentially require a fire wall if close to a property line. Attic conversions may involve ensuring the floor structure can support the added weight and that roof-raising complies with height regulations.

Resources to Learn More

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

Resources to Learn More

Select a City in Scott 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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