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Frequently Asked Questions

The material in this question and answer series is for your information only. It is not legal advice and is not designed to be used in place of legal advice. You should consult your own attorney for legal advice. The St. Joseph Legal Department provides this series to provide a general summary of procedures concerning violations of city ordinances in the City of St. Joseph, Missouri. It is issued to inform generally, not to advise of specific rights. As with any general information, the answers given here may not specifically apply to you.
How do I get a garage/shed/etc. permitted?

The city defines buildings such as garages, sheds, etc. as “accessory buildings”. These are buildings that are “accessory” to a primary structure, usually a house. The city regulates accessory buildings through Sec. 31-050 of the City Code, including setback requirements, height limits, etc.

The city does not permit accessory structures on vacant lots. Accessory buildings must be accessory to a primary structure on the same property.

Structures over 120 square feet are required to obtain a building permit through the city’s building department. Any accessory buildings applying to be permitted would require a site plan showing the location of the building in relation to nearby buildings and property lines (this does not have to be done by a contractor or other professional).

Structures that do not or cannot meet requirements outlined in the code would either be denied a permit or could proceed by obtaining a variance or exception from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.


Show All Answers

1. What is Planning & Zoning?
2. What applications & permits does Planning & Zoning administer?
3. What is a subdivision or plat?
4. What is the subdivision process or platting?
5. How Do I combine, split, or adjust my property lines?
6. Does the city provide surveying services?
7. What is zoning?
8. What is rezoning?
9. How do I find my property’s zoning?
10. What does zoning determine?
11. How do I get a fence permit and what are the city’s rules for fences?
12. How do I get a pool permit and what are the city’s rules for pools?
13. How do I get a garage/shed/etc. permitted?
14. How do I get a sign permit?
15. What is a site plan?
16. What is the Zoning Board of Adjustment?
17. What is a variance or exception?
18. What is the Planning Commission?
19. What is the Downtown Review Board?