Missouri Building Permits — Complete Guide (2026)
Find, Apply & Track Permits in Cities and Counties Across Missouri
Missouri has a voluntary statewide building code — cities adopt it independently. Kansas City and St. Louis lead in volume. Like Kansas, Missouri is in tornado country with high demand for storm shelter permits.
How building permits work in Missouri
Building permit requirements and processing times in Missouri vary by city and county. Use the links below to apply, check status, schedule inspections and find permit information for your location.
Learn the step-by-step permit process →Not sure where to apply?
Enter your city or address to find your permit office.
Permit costs by type — Missouri
| Permit Type | Fee Range | Processing Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical | $65–$180 | 1–3 days | Licensed electrician required in cities |
| Plumbing | $60–$165 | 1–3 days | Licensed plumber required |
| HVAC / Mechanical | $65–$185 | 1–4 days | Furnace/AC replacement drives volume |
| Roofing | $75–$225 | 1–3 days | Tornado storm damage very common |
| New Construction | $400–$1,300 | 2–5 weeks | Varies by city vs. rural |
| Room Addition | $250–$700 | 1–4 weeks | Simpler outside major cities |
| Storm shelter | $75–$200 | 1–2 days | Often fast-tracked statewide |
| Pool | $150–$400 | 1–3 weeks | Barrier fence required |
| Deck / Patio | $100–$300 | 1–3 weeks | Frost depth 24–36 inches |
| Solar | $65–$185 | 1–4 days | Growing market |
Major Missouri cities — apply online
Most Missouri building permits are issued by cities. Click your city to access the permit portal, apply online, or check permit status.
Permit costs by county — top Missouri counties
County building departments handle unincorporated areas. Click a county to access its permit portal directly.
How to get a building permit in Missouri
Verify if your area requires permits
Missouri has no statewide mandate. Kansas City, St. Louis, and Springfield have full permit systems. Rural Missouri may have no requirements.
Storm shelter permits
Missouri fast-tracks storm shelter permits in most jurisdictions. Pre-approved designs are available through FEMA and Missouri SEMA.
Submit application
Online portals in major cities; paper in rural areas. Fees are generally below national average.
Inspections
City inspectors are available in major municipalities. Rural Missouri may use county or regional inspectors.
Certificate of Occupancy
Required for new construction in all permit-issuing jurisdictions.
ADU permits in Missouri — what you need to know
🏠 Missouri ADU-friendly status: No statewide law
Missouri has no statewide ADU law. Kansas City and Columbia have updated zoning to allow accessory dwelling units. St. Louis allows carriage houses and garage apartments in many districts. Most rural Missouri counties have minimal zoning restrictions.
Find a licensed Missouri contractor
Missouri requires licensed professionals for most permitted work. Always verify a contractor's license before hiring — it protects you and is required for most permit types.
General Contractors
Find pre-screened general contractors for your Missouri home project. Compare quotes on permitted work.
Find a Contractor →Verify MO License
Verify your contractor holds a valid Missouri Division of Professional Registration license before any permitted work begins.
Verify MO License →Electricians & Plumbers
Specialty-licensed electricians and plumbers are required for all permitted electrical and plumbing work in Missouri.
Learn More →Ready to get started? Browse verified, licensed contractors serving Missouri homeowners and get free quotes on your project.
🔍 Find a Contractor Near YouFrequently asked questions — Missouri permits
Disclaimer: HousePermits.com is an independent resource and is not affiliated with any government agency.