Missouri building departments
Find local permit offices, inspection services, and official resources across Missouri.
How permitting works in Missouri
Local codes and permits. Missouri has no statewide building code. Cities and counties adopt their own, and counties without a code before 2001 need voter approval to adopt one for unincorporated areas.
A county name is only a geographic starting point. Depending on the address, a city, town, borough, township, or county office may issue your permit. How to check who issues your permit.
Missouri building codes and licensing
- Residential code
- No statewide residential building code; cities and counties adopt their own codes, listed by jurisdiction on the state data portal
- Commercial code
- No statewide commercial building code; codes are adopted by individual cities and counties
- Outside city limits
- First- and second-class county commissions may adopt building codes and issue permits in unincorporated areas (RSMo 64.170). A county without a code before Aug. 28, 2001 needs approval from voters in the unincorporated area before adopting one.
- Contractor licensing
- The Division of Professional Registration issues a statewide electrical contractor license (RSMo 324.900–324.945) that requires an exam, documented field hours, and $500,000 in liability insurance. A local electrical license is valid only in the issuing jurisdiction or in places that require no license. Missouri Division of Professional Registration – Statewide electrical contractor license (opens in a new tab)
What is different in Missouri
- Missouri DNR's jurisdiction lists show only the general code each city or county adopted, not local amendments or trade codes. Confirm details with the local office.
- A statewide electrical contractor must still post any bond the local jurisdiction requires (RSMo 324.920).
- Local permitting authorities may suspend a statewide electrical licensee's work for up to 30 days while forwarding a complaint to the state (RSMo 324.940).
Missouri department guides
Browse Missouri counties
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Planning a project in Missouri?
Start with what the model codes say, then confirm local rules with the department that serves your address.