Missouri permits
Do you need a permit in Missouri?
Missouri has no statewide building code — adoption and enforcement happen at the municipal or county level, and many rural areas have minimal permitting. St. Louis, St. Louis County, Kansas City, Springfield, and Columbia have full building departments. Missouri does not require a statewide general contractor license, though some municipalities require local registration. Electrical and plumbing licensing is local.
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These are statewide ranges. Get your exact Missouri cost for your zip code and project size.
Can a homeowner pull the permit?
Yes, in most cases. Owner-occupied primary residences. Requirements vary widely by jurisdiction; rural areas may not require permits at all, while St. Louis and KC are stricter.
Where to file: City or county building department. St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, and Columbia have online portals. Rural counties may have little to no permitting. Plan review 1-3 weeks where required.
Permits by trade in Missouri
| Trade | When required | Citation | Typical fee | DIY? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plumbing | In-wall work, fixture changes, water heater, gas | Local plumbing code | $40-$200 | Conditional |
| Electrical | New circuits, panel work, service upgrades, EV charger | Local code; NEC | $40-$200 | Conditional |
| Mechanical (HVAC) | Furnace/AC change-out, ductwork, refrigerant | Local mechanical code | $60-$200 | No |
| Building (structural) | Additions, structural modifications, decks | IRC as adopted by jurisdiction | $75-$500 | Yes |
| Roofing | Re-roofs (most jurisdictions), structural deck repair | Local jurisdiction | $40-$200 | Yes |
| Demolition | Pre-1980 buildings may need asbestos survey before demo | MO DNR | $100-$400 | Conditional |
Hover a Conditional or No entry for the homeowner rule. Always confirm with your local building department, since requirements vary by jurisdiction.
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