Building Permits

A building permit ensures that your building project is structurally sound, that it complies with the building and zoning codes, and more importantly, that the structure is built to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of all occupants. Also, per the county building code, a building permit is required. If a building permit is not secured, you will be cited with a no permit penalty.

The Permit Process

When obtaining a building permit, your proposed project is:

  1. Reviewed for zoning compliance by the City of Wildwood so that the location of the structure is within the setback regulations for your property
  2. Reviewed by plan reviewers who verify proper materials are used and that the St. Louis county building codes are enforced
  3. Inspected to ensure the building plans are followed and that all St. Louis County building codes are met
  4. Approved for occupancy by a final inspection and issuance of a certificate of use and occupancy

When Building Permits are Required

A permit is required for:

  • Additions to existing buildings
  • Any new construction
  • Electrical or mechanical work
  • Above-ground swimming pools, including those that are Inflatable
  • New or replaced plumbing
  • Retaining walls over three feet in height (or under three (3) feet in height, if load-bearing)
  • Structural alterations to an existing building

A building permit is not required for the items listed below, however, a Zoning Authorization from the City is still required. Contact the City's Planning Technician for information on the process:

  • Fences less than six feet in height
  • General concrete flat work on private property (residential patios, residential sidewalks) within your property lines, less than 12" above finished grade, and outside of the side yard setbacks.
  • Minor repairs
  • Retaining walls under three feet in height, only if non-load bearing
  • Utility sheds 120 square feet or less

For additional information on building permits, please review Work That Does Not Require a Building Permit (PDF) from the St. Louis County Department of Public Works.

Additional Information

For more information regarding the city's zoning authorization process specific to your project, please review the Zoning Authorization Guidelines Reference Sheets, or to be contacted regarding this process, please fill out the form. For more information on the St. Louis County building permit process, please visit St. Louis County Public Works online, or call 314-615-2559.