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Building Requirements

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1. Do I have to have an Occupancy Permit to move into the City of Brentwood?

Yes.

2. Do I need to have an Occupancy Permit if I am a renter?

Yes. Any new tenant, whether renting or owning, is required to have an occupancy permit.

3. How do I obtain an Occupancy Permit?

The current owner or landlord is responsible for arranging a housing inspection. After the unit has passed the inspection, the new tenant or owner completes the application for Residential Occupancy Permit and pays a $45 charge. The application must be completed and payment must be made before the permit certificate is issued. If you are financing the home purchase, most lenders will require you to have the occupancy permit prior to closing the loan.

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4. What does the inspection cost?

The inspection is done at no cost to the current owner, who generally pays for the necessary repairs, if any. We will not issue an occupancy permit unless the house passes the inspection.

5. For how long is the inspection valid?

Six months. If the unit has remained unoccupied during that period, we can extend the expiration of the inspection.

6. Can I use the occupancy inspection to satisfy the inspection referred to in my purchase offer?

It is not recommended you do this. The inspection done by a professional home inspector as a part of your purchase of a home is much more thorough than the city's inspection. We look primarily for life, health and safety issues. We do not look, for example, at the condition of the furnace or the anticipated future life of the roof system. The private inspector will give you a report on those types of things.

7. When are building permits required?

Building permits are required when:

You make a structural change in the building (e.g., you want to move a staircase).

You make a change to the light and/or ventilation (e.g., you want to make a window smaller or larger).

You want to change the ingress/egress of the unit (e.g., you want to close off a door to the outside).

8. What building codes are in force in Brentwood?

Residential: International Residential Code, 2009 Edition
Commercial: International Building Code, 2009
Electrical: National Electric Code, 2008 Edition
Plumbing: International Plumbing Code, 2009 Edition
Mechanical: International Mechanical Code, 2009 Edition
Fire: International Fire Code, 2009
Maintenance: International Property Maintenance Code, 2009 Edition
Energy: International Energy Conservation Code, 2009
Zoning: Chapter 400 of the Brentwood City Code

9. When is an electrical permit required?

Any time you change a circuit, add a receptacle, or delete a receptacle it is important to have the work inspected. In some cases, we will issue the homeowner a permit to do the work himself/herself. However, we will evaluate whether or not the homeowner knows what they are doing and whether they will be able to perform the work in a workmanlike manner. Otherwise, the electrician that you use will have to be licensed to do work in the City of Brentwood and will be required to obtain a permit.

10. When is a plumbing permit required?

A plumbing permit is required under the same circumstances as an electrical permit. The same condition for a homeowner permit also applies.

11. When is a mechanical permit required?

A mechanical permit is required for a change in the heating, ventilating and air conditioning system of the unit. Changing a furnace requires a permit. Changing an air conditioner (other than a window unit) requires a permit. We do not have provisions for a homeowner permit in this field.

12. Is it necessary to have a building permit to replace a roof?

No, but you may only overlay an existing roof if there is only one layer of material underneath it. This means there should never be more than two layers of shingles on your roof. If you already have two layers and need to re-roof a third time, you must remove the first two layers of shingles before applying the third. Also, if you have been experiencing roof problems (excessive sagging or leaks) it is probably wise to have the work inspected by the City. If you want us to look at the roof, a permit is required to grant us the authority to inspect.

13. I want to change the roof sheathing (plywood) on my roof. Is a permit required?

Yes. The roof sheathing is considered part of the structure.

14. I want to replace a double window with a sliding door. Is it necessary to have a permit for this?

Yes. This is considered a change in the ingress/egress of the unit.

15. I want to add a bedroom in the basement. Is a permit necessary?

Yes, a permit is required because bedrooms have a requirement for emergency access. Firefighters must be able to get into the bedroom from the outside. Therefore, the window must be a certain size. The only way for us to verify this is through the permit process.

16. I want to replace my kitchen sink with a new one. Is a permit required?

If the sink goes exactly where the old one was (even if it is bigger or smaller) and no extension of the drain system is required, it is considered maintenance and does not require a permit.

17. I want to replace my kitchen cabinets. Does this require a permit?

If you are taking old cabinets out and putting new cabinets in, and are not tampering with plumbing or electric fixtures, then no permit is required. If you are moving or adding electric fixtures or plumbing, a permit is required.

18. I want to put drain tile in the inside of the basement. Do I need a permit?

Generally not, unless the system drains into a sump with a pump. Because of the electrical pump connection, an electrical permit is required for this.

19. I want to put up a new fence. Is a permit required?

Yes. See the regulations and application available at the Planning and Development department in City Hall.

20. I want to replace my 42" high chain link fence with a new 42" high chain link fence in exactly the same location. Is a permit required?

A permit is not required if you have the original fence permit. If you do not have a permit from installation of the original fence, a new permit is required.

21. I want to replace my existing 42" chain link fence with a 5' stockade fence. Is a permit required?

Yes. And, the "good side" of the stockade fence must face outward toward the public or the adjoining property owners.

22. Is a permit required to replace a brick or concrete patio?

A permit is generally not required. However, if the patio is higher than 3' above the neighboring property and the patio is located in the yard setback area, then approval from the Board of Aldermen is required. If the patio does not meet those criteria, a permit is not required. The Board approval is required to make sure the new patio does not impose upon the neighbors' enjoyment of their property.

23. What is needed for a building permit?

Complete the application form available from the Planning and Development department and submit the form, along with three sets of plans that have an architect's seal. When the permit is ready for pickup after review, you will be called and informed of the cost. You may pick up the permit during regular business hours after paying the permit fee. Minor construction activity, such as a yard shed, does not require drawings with an architect's seal.

24. My job is so small that it does not make sense for me to hire an architect and spend $500 in professional fees for a porch that would cost $250 in material. What should I do?

Call the Planning and Development department and speak with the plan reviewer. We can usually use a little common sense and work with you on your project.

25. How long does it take to get a building permit?

It depends on how many applications have been filed ahead of yours. Normally, it takes just a few days, but it may take as long as two weeks depending on the number of plans and permits under review.

26. Do I need any permits from St. Louis County?

Not for building, electrical, mechanical or plumbing jobs or demolition permits.

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Fire Department

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1. Does the Brentwood Fire Department install and/or check infant and toddler car seats?

No, but the Brentwood Police Department does. Please arrange for an appointment by calling 314.644.7100 or email carseat@brentwoodmo.org

2. Does the Brentwood Fire Department install and/or check residential smoke and carbon monoxide detectors? Can I get a free smoke detector from the fire department?

The Brentwood Fire Department will install your smoke detector and/or replace batteries in your smoke detector or carbon monoxide detector. We do not provide smoke detectors to the public.

3. How do I dispose of my old or used fire extinguisher?

Fire extinguisher companies will take old fire extinguishers, or you can empty them and discard them in the trash. Empty the fire extinguishers outside only, preferably into a trash can. Stay upwind of the discharge. The dry chemical in fire extinguishers is not considered hazardous, but it can cause respiratory issues if inhaled. DO NOT discard fire extinguishers in the trash unless the gauge indicates that there is no pressure.

4. How do I dispose of unused medicine, sharps, epi-pens and other medical syringes?

The Brentwood Police Department has a medicine disposal container inside the police department lobby. According to the St. Louis County Waste Code Section 607.897, residents can dispose of sharps in their regular trash. To protect sanitation workers, the sharps must be packaged in rigid, leak-proof and puncture-resistant containers (detergent bottle, for example), which are sealed prior to disposal.
Please DO NOT put these containers in the recycling!

5. Are fire pits and bonfires allowed within the city limits? Are BBQ grills and fire pits allowed on apartment/condo balconies?

BBQ grills and fire pits are not allowed on balconies of condos or apartments.

Fire pits and contained-backyard fires are permitted within the City of Brentwood within these conditions: You may not burn trash; open burning other than for recreational use requires a permit (from the Planning and Development/Building Department at City Hall); the burn area cannot be larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high (if not contained within a fireplace or BBQ grill); recreational fire must be attended at all times with a garden hose or fire extinguisher present until fire is completely out. Additionally, recreational fire must be at least 25 feet away from area combustibles and structures; any fire-spread condition must be eliminated, and open burning may not endanger any adjacent property or structure.

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Human Resources

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1. What positions are currently available?

Available positions are posted on this website. Click on "Employment/Available Positions" on the left menu of the home page. Current Job Listings

2. What is the hiring process?

The Human Resources Department coordinates the recruitment and selection process for the City of Brentwood.

3. What type of benefits does the City offer?

The City of Brentwood offers an attractive benefits package for City employees. Benefits will be explained in detail during the interview process.

4. Where do I send my application and/or resume for a job posting?

Applications for employment should be mailed to Brentwood City Hall, 2348 South Brentwood Blvd., Brentwood, MO 63144.

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Learn To Skate

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1. What time should I arrive for the first class?

Please arrive 20 to 30 minutes early the first week of classes to ensure your child receives a name tag, finds skates that fit properly, and is directed to the proper class/instructor.

2. Are skates included in the price?

Rental skates are provided with the skating lesson. Should you or your child receive a pair of skates that are too tight, too loose or have dull blades, please return them to the skate window for a different pair.

3. What should my child wear?

Please be sure your child is wearing gloves and helmet (for lower levels) while on the ice. Your child should be dressed warmly but not be restricted.

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Parks & Recreation

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1. How do I register for activities?

There are two easy ways to register for a program.
1. Register over the telephone and pay with a major credit card.
2. Register in person at the Brentwood Recreation Complex, 2505 S. Brentwood Blvd.

2. Does the City of Brentwood have facilities available to rent for special occasions?

Yes. The Brentwood Recreation Complex has meeting and party rooms appropriate for any occasion. More information is available online or by calling 314.963.8689. Meeting Spaces at Brentwood Recreation Complex

3. Where are the parks located in Brentwood?

The City of Brentwood has seven beautiful parks located throughout the city. More...

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Planning and Development - Zoning

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1. How far off the property line must I be if I want to build something on my residential lot?

It depends on the zoning district in which your house is located. In the "A" Residential District, you must be at least eight (8) feet from the side property line – more if you live on a corner lot. In the "B" Residential District, the distance changes to five (5) feet – more if it is a corner lot. For house additions, or for anything else that attaches to the house, the rear building setback line is: “A” district, a minimum of 25 feet; and for the "B" district, a minimum of 20 feet. If this is for a yard shed or detached garage, the minimum rear setback for the "A" district is 8 feet, and for the "B" district, 5 feet.

2. Can I put a yard shed in the back yard and is a permit required?

A small yard shed may be placed in the back yard of a residential lot. However, there must be a house on that property and the shed must be at least the side yard setback distance off all of the property lines. In addition, the size of such a structure is limited to less than 200 feet in area and 16 feet in height.

3. My neighbor is building a sundeck and doesn't have a permit. Can he do that?

Not legally. A building permit is required for any new construction in the City.

4. I live on property that abuts commercial ground. Can you make the business put up a fence?

Although our law requires a fence between commercial and residential property, if the commercial business was there prior to the enactment of the law, we cannot make the business erect a fence until there is a change in ownership or occupancy of the property. When the requirement for a fence was added to the zoning chapter, the governing body did not mandate fences be erected by any certain date. Hence, the business may continue to operate under what is known as a "grandfather clause."

5. How can I find out when the Board is considering zoning issues?

Not all zoning issues are required to have a public hearing. The best way to find out what is going on is by looking at either the Planning and Zoning Commission agenda or the Board of Aldermen agenda. Prior to being acted upon by the Board, all zoning issues go to the Planning & Zoning Commission for their recommendation. The P&Z meets on the second Wednesday of the month. In the event that there is no business pending, the meeting is canceled. The Board of Aldermen then votes on the matter after P&Z has forwarded their recommendation on the issue. Board of Aldermen meetings are generally held on the first and third Mondays of the month; this may be adjusted due to holidays and summer months. (Check the calendar on the City's website.)

Some zoning issues such as a conditional use permit or rezoning require the Board to have a public hearing on the issue under consideration. Public hearings are advertised in the St. Louis Countian (a legal newspaper) at least 15 days in advance of the hearing date. In addition, public hearing notices are placed on public notice boards around the City. Last, a notification of the hearing is sent to any person who owns property within 300 feet of the site of a zoning change or use permit.

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Police Department

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1. When I call police, what information should I have ready to provide?

The information needed will vary based on what is being reported. The following is a list of questions that could be asked when you call for police service. Not all questions would be applicable to every call. The dispatcher will want to know:

What is occurring or has occurred?
The location of occurrence
Your name and phone number (anonymous calls are accepted)
Your location, if different from location of occurrence
The time of occurrence
Are there any injuries?
Is anyone intoxicated?
Are there weapons involved?
How many people are involved?
What is the description of the people involved? (gender, race, hair color, eye color, height, weight, scars/tattoos, clothing)
What is the description of the vehicles involved? (license plate, color, make, model, year)
What was the direction of travel for any persons or vehicle leaving the scene?
Are there any witnesses? Are they still at the scene?
Are there any animals at the house? Inside or outside?

2. How do I obtain a copy of an accident report?

Call 314.962.4800 to request a copy of the report to be picked up at City Hall for a $6 fee. Please allow 10 business days following the accident for the report to be ready. Some reports may take longer to process due to the nature of the accident/incident.

3. What is curfew for juveniles?

A person under the age of 17 is considered a juvenile. Curfew is 11 pm Sunday-Thursday and midnight Friday and Saturday. Curfew extends until sunrise. This is in effect 365 days a year.

4. Will police respond if I lock my keys in the car?

Unless there is immediate danger to public safety (a child is locked inside), you will be asked to contact a towing company or locksmith. Brentwood police officers will respond if an animal is locked in a car that is not ventilated and could constitute animal cruelty.

5. What should I do if a police officer stops me while I’m driving?

You should decrease your speed and use your signal to indicate which way you intend to pull over (always pull to the right if at all possible). You should try to pull out of the way of traffic and leave enough room so that the police vehicle behind you is also able to get out of traffic. If you are pulled over at night, try to pull over in a well-lit area. Turn on your dome light and keep your hands on the steering wheel. Do not begin to search for your driver's license before being told to do so and do not exit your vehicle unless asked by the officer. Stay calm and provide the information requested by the officer. Answer questions without embellishment or storytelling. Please do not reach under the seat, in the glove box, etc., without telling the officer what you are doing. Remember, the officer does not know you or your intentions.

6. Where do I go to pay a traffic citation or a parking ticket?

Payment is made at the Court Clerk Office, located at Bretwood City Hall, 2348 South Brentwood Blvd. You can contact the Court Clerk at 314-963-8623.

7. What should I do if involved in a traffic crash?

When you are involved in a traffic crash, you should stop and remain at the scene. If possible, move your vehicle off the roadway. Call the police dispatch at 644-7100 or dial 911 if there are injuries. Wait for the police to arrive. Do not get into an argument with other drivers involved.

8. What should I do if I witness the crash?

If you witness a crash, if possible, stop on the side of the road and stay until the police arrive. If you are not able to remain, you should call police dispatch at 644-7100 or 911 if there are injuries, and advise that you have witnessed the crash. The dispatcher will forward your name and contact information to the investigating officer.

9. I observe a reckless driver. Can I report him?

We encourage you to report reckless drivers. To aid police in locating the violator, provide as much information as possible, such as a description of the vehicle (and driver, if possible), a license plate number, direction of travel, and time lapse. If you are calling on a cell phone while following this errant driver, try to stay on the line. This will allow dispatchers to update responding units to the violator’s location and directions of travel. Never compromise your own safety or violate the laws and rules of driving that apply to you as well as everyone else on the road.

10. What should I do if I witness criminal activity or I am a victim of a crime in Brentwood?

First, make sure you are safe, and then contact the police. If possible, make written notes of what you have seen, including descriptions, times and locations, while your memory is still fresh. If the situation is an emergency, call 911. If it is not an emergency, call Brentwood Police dispatch at 644-7100. Follow the directions and answer the questions being asked. Remain calm. It may be necessary for the police officer to speak with you directly; be prepared to meet the officer or provide a contact number.

11. What can I do to crime-proof my home or business?

It is impossible to completely “crime-proof” your home or business; however, it is possible to take steps that can make your property less vulnerable to burglary, such as using the proper locks, doors and windows, alarms, etc. Contact the Brentwood Police Department for information on home and business security or to request a security check, 644-7100.

12. Who is the Brentwood Police Chief and how many officers does Brentwood have?

Our Police Chief is Joseph Spiess. We are authorized to staff 27 officers .

13. What is the difference between a police officer and a detective?

A detective is a plain-clothes police officer responsible for the follow-up investigation of crimes and incidents. A uniformed patrol officer responds to and handles the initial investigation of calls for police service. The detective continues the investigation started by the patrol officer but may also initiate specialized investigations directly assigned to the detective rank.

14. When should I call 911?

Dial 911 in any emergency when police, fire, or ambulance is needed, such as: fire, crime in progress, life-threatening situations, when someone needs an ambulance, when a personal injury has occurred or may occur.

15. How does 911 work?

A 911 call made in Brentwood is received at the East Central Dispatch Center. The call taker ascertains if the caller needs police, fire, ambulance or all of the above. If so, then the appropriate units are dispatched. When you call 911, the address and phone number of the phone you are calling from is displayed on a screen in the Communications Center.

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Public Works

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1. My sidewalk is raising and sinking and needs to be replaced. Who takes care of that?

Contact the Public Works department at 962.4800. Public Works will investigate the problem, place it in priority when viewed with other similar work assignments, and get the walk repaired or replaced as rapidly as time and money permit.

2. I have water backing up in the drain in the basement. What should I do?

The City has a 24-hour a day, 365 day a year sewer hotline service. This service is funded by an annual assessment of $50 billed as one of the charges on your real estate tax bill. The phone number to report a problem is 962.6234. Call at any time. Provide your name, phone number, address and a brief description of the problem, and they will contact the emergency sewer opening firm. It is this firm's job to determine if the problem is inside or outside the house. If the problem is inside the house, you may choose to repair the blockage yourself and will not be billed for the service call. You may also contract with the firm that has made the service call, but that service is at your own expense.

If the problem lies outside of the house, between the house and the sewer main, a service man will open the line temporarily, and advise the City of the blockage. The City will then TV the line to verify the location of the blockage, and will either cable the line with a heavy duty cabling system, or excavate and replace the damaged or blocked pipe section. We will not excavate until we have the underground utility lines located. This normally takes 2 or 3 days. In most cases, you will have use of the sewer line during this wait. The repair is done at no charge to you. The City is not responsible for replacing any landscaping disturbed during the repair process. We will fill the excavation with compacted topsoil and sow grass seed. We will return in a few months if the dirt has settled, and you call to report the settling. This call should be made to Jim Nahmensen at 963-8643. If the blockage is determined to be in the sewer main (operated by MSD), they will be notified and will clear the pipe of any blockage, again at no charge to you.

3. I keep getting a hole in my yard but have never had sewage back up into the basement. Is this a problem?

Yes, this is a sign your sewer lateral or yard vent/clean-out might have a leak. It is covered under the sewer lateral program and will be repaired at no cost to you if the problem is with your sewer lateral pipe system. In the event there are homes that have sewage backing up into the house, they will be repaired first, as the hole in the yard is not creating a hazardous situation. In the event the sewer lateral system is not the problem, the City will not do any further investigation.

4. Is it necessary to have a permit to replace my driveway?

A street excavation permit is required for any work in the right-of-way or if you wish to widen the driveway, apron the driveway or relocate the driveway. A street excavation permit also is required if a sidewalk is to be replaced as part of your driveway project. The Planning and Development Department will inspect the work to make sure it conforms to regulations.

5. What kind of driveway may I put in?

The driveway may be either asphalt or concrete. It is not necessary to have this work inspected by the City. The driveway may not be installed as rock. Only rock driveways in existence prior to the adoption of the codes are authorized to remain rock. If an existing rock driveway is to be replaced, it must be replaced with a hard surface material such as asphalt or concrete.

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Resident Information

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1. What are the local emergency contacts?

Police and Fire emergencies: 911

Police non-emergency dispatch: 314-644-7100.

Fire Department non-emergency: 314-963-8612.

Missouri Regional Poison Center at Cardinal Glennon Hospital: 314-772-5200

Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-784-2433

Rape Crisis Hotline: 314-531-7273

2. Where can I find the new resident packet?

New resident packets may be obtained from the Planning & Development Department when applying for an occupancy permit. More...

3. How do I get a child car seat installed?

The Brentwood Police Department offers free child car seat installation by one of the police officers who is a certified child passenger safety technician. This service also provides the opportunity to check your existing seat for proper installment. Call 314-644-7100 or email carseat@brentwoodmo.org.

4. How do I contact utility companies?

Spire (formerly Laclede Gas Company: 314-621-6960
Ameren Missouri: 314-342-1000
Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District: 314-768-6260
Missouri American Water Company: 314-771-4880
Charter Communications: 636-441-7511

5. Who do I call to report street light outages?

Public Streets in the City of Brentwood are maintained by Ameren. Contact Ameren directly, 1-800-552-7583 when you notice a street light out on your block or in your neighborhood. Ameren will need your address as well as the "pole number" associated with the street light you are calling about. The pole number can be found on a tag located about eye level as you are looking at the light pole.

6. Where can I find emergency disaster information?

For all Police and Fire emergencies, dial 911. For Police Department non-emergencies dispatch, call 314-644-7100. For Fire Department non-emergencies, call 314-963-8612. More...

7. Who do I call to report potholes or other severe road conditions?

Brentwood Blvd.: St. Louis County Hwy & Traffic, 314-615-1120.

Manchester Rd.: MoDOT, 1-800-275-6636.

All other city streets in Brentwood: Brentwood Public Works Department, 314-962-4800

8. What is the holiday trash pickup schedule?

Please click on the following link for the holiday trash schedule. More...

9. What items are accepted for curbside recycling?

The City of Brentwood provides curbside recycling for all residents. More...

10. Where can I find trash pickup information?

The City provides trash, recycle and yard waste services to all Brentwood residents free of charge. More...

11. Where can I recycle my old electronics

e-cycle St. Louis will recycle your old unwanted electronics. More...

12. Are any animals prohibited in the city?

It shall be unlawful for any person to keep any horse, mule, jennet, donkey, bull, cow, calf, sheep, hog, pig, goat or domestic fowl within or under any building used for human habitation within this city.

All animals shall be kept under restraint.
(b) No owner shall fail to exercise proper care and control of his/her animal to prevent them from becoming a public nuisance.
(c) Every female dog in heat shall be confined in a building or secure enclosure in such a manner that such female dog cannot come into contact with another dog except for planned breeding.
(d) Every vicious animal, as determined by the licensing authority, shall be confined by the owner within a building or secure enclosure and shall be securely muzzled or caged whenever off the premises of its owner.

13. Do I have to license my pets?

No, you are not required to license your pet in the City of Brentwood.