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Brentwood Bound

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1. What is Brentwood Bound?

Brentwood Bound is a comprehensive plan to renew the Manchester Road corridor between Brentwood Boulevard and Hanley Road in the City of Brentwood. There are three components to the plan: Deer Creek Flood Mitigation, Manchester Road Improvements, and Deer Creek Greenway Connector. 

Together, these projects will help us overcome long-term challenges while enhancing our community for decades to come and providing an opportunity for park and recreational spaces to be enjoyed by all Brentwood residents.

2. What is the timeline for the projects?

Construction is planned to start in 2020. If funding is available it is anticipated that the flood mitigation, road improvements and Great Rivers Greenway connector will be finished by the end of 2022.

3. Who is partnering with the City on Brentwood Bound?

The City of Brentwood has partnered with the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) and Great Rivers Greenway, a regional organization committed to connecting our communities through a dynamic network of greenways. MoDOT will provide the majority of the funding for road improvements included in this project.

4. How is Brentwood Bound funded?

The Brentwood Bound plan will be funded through a combination of grant funding, partnerships, funding from certificates of participation (COPs), and a one-half of one percent economic development sales tax. 

Total Investment:

• Existing Funding (Grants, partnerships, COPs)    $39.2 million

• Anticipated Additional Funding (supported by economic development sales tax)    $40.2 million

• Anticipated Total Project Cost: $79.6 million

Partnerships and Grants

• MoDOT Funding and Grants $9,000,000

• Great Rivers Greenway Pledge $3,000,000

• East-West Gateway Council of Governments Grant $1,200,000

5. What are Certificates of Participation (COPs)?

The City of Brentwood currently has Certificates of Participation (COPs) to fund a portion of the project. This is an alternative to traditional bond funding that allows cities to acquire land, buildings and equipment through a lease-purchase agreement without increasing taxes.

6. How will residents be impacted by this plan?

This plan will address flooding and safety challenges while bringing a long-term revenue source to our City. Residents will gain better access to parks, trails and greenspace that will connect the community, as well as improved pedestrian access to local shopping, restaurants and more.

7. How will the Brentwood Bound plan impact safety in the area?

The Brentwood Bound plan is expected to remove businesses from the floodplain and reduce the chances for flooding of businesses and Manchester Road in the area. Improvements to Manchester Road will enhance pedestrian safety with sidewalk and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) updates, traffic signal upgrades and additional lighting. The planned trails and walkways are also expected to make the area safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

8. What is the Brentwood Bound Citizen Advisory Committee?

The role of the Brentwood Bound Citizen Advisory Committee is to facilitate transparent, two-way communication between the City of Brentwood and the residents of the community about the Brentwood Bound plan.

9. How can I get involved with the Brentwood Bound Citizen Advisory Committee?

If you would like to get involved or provide feedback on the plan, please call 314.963.8673 or email brentwoodbound@brentwoodmo.org.

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Brentwood Bound: Chapter 353 Redevelopment Plan

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1. I am interested in buying property in the redevelopment area. Will the City permit me to buy the property?

Yes. You do not need the City’s permission to buy the property. 

2. The property I’m interested in buying appears to be needed by the City for its Deer Creek Flood Mitigation Project or the Deer Creek Greenway Connector. Can I still buy it?

Yes. However, at some point, as the City’s projects progress, the City may contact you and seek to acquire rights in your property (either ownership or easement rights).

3. I understand some of the properties in the redevelopment area have flooding issues. Do you know if the property I want to buy has flooded?

The City does not necessarily know which properties have flooded over the years and which have not. You should ask the current owner about historical incidents of flooding. You may also find the following websites helpful. (The St. Louis County site is an interactive map which has layers showing 1% Annual Chance, also known as 100-year, and 0.2% Annual Chance, also known as 500-year, regulatory flood zone locations.) 
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Map Service Center (allows regulatory flood map lookup by address)
St. Louis County (“Special Flood Hazard Areas” and “Other Flood Areas”)

4. Is the property I’m interested in part of the Deer Creek Flood Mitigation Project, the Deer Creek Greenway Connector Project, or the Manchester Road Improvement Project?

Maps showing the preliminary designs of the projects are subject to change.

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Brentwood Bound: Condemnation

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1. I received a notice in the mail saying the City intends to acquire my property or an easement in my property. What are my rights?

The notice excerpts a Missouri statute describing your rights. See Section 523.250 RSMo. You may also contact the Missouri Office of the Ombudsman for Property Rights for more information.

2. Can the City or the City’s attorneys give me legal advice?

No, neither the City nor the City’s attorneys can give you legal advice. You should consult a lawyer of your own choosing to help you understand the condemnation process and what rights you have.

3. I thought the City was working on the Manchester Road Improvement Project, but I’m being contacted by MoDOT representatives. I don’t understand whose project this is.

Manchester Road, or Highway 100, is a state highway controlled by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). MoDOT is responsible for much of the upcoming work along Manchester Road, including its resurfacing. The City is improving and beautifying Manchester Road in Brentwood at the same time, so the City has overlapping projects with MoDOT. It is possible that you may be contacted by both representatives of the City and MoDOT at some point.

If you have questions about the Manchester Road Project, please contact Ryan Pearcy at MODOT, 314.453.5086.

4. Why is the City condemning my property for the flood mitigation project and not my neighbor’s property?

The specific location of your parcel is critical to solving the flooding issue that has been problematic for the City for decades. Stormwater flooding has inundated the Manchester and Hanley intersection and properties in the area 26 times since 1957, creating significant public safety issues and property damage.

The City has been working with its engineering firm, Jacobs (formerly CH2M), to implement the designs to solve the flooding problems along Deer Creek affecting Manchester Road between Hanley Road and South Brentwood Boulevard. The plan is a combination of improvements to the channel and overflow areas to hold excess water in periods of flooding. All or part of 22 municipalities contribute nearly 37 square miles of watershed into the segment of Deer Creek that flows through Brentwood, which is also a fairly flat section of the creek.

Map of the contributing watershed and location of the Deer Creek Flood Mitigation Project:

5. What is the timeline for each project?

The project timelines are listed here.

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Brentwood Bound: Deer Creek Greenway Connector

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1. What is the Deer Creek Greenway Connector?

The Deer Creek Greenway Connector involves the planning, design and construction of a connection between the City of Brentwood’s Rogers Parkway and the Deer Creek Greenway. The City is partnering with Great Rivers Greenway to connect residents to the surrounding communities with the enhanced greenway.

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Brentwood Bound: Economic Development

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1. What is an economic development sales tax?

Municipalities are authorized by state statute to implement a sales tax for economic development. 

• This sales tax must be used for economic development activities detailed in the statute.

  • This can include improving or building roads, sidewalks and other infrastructure, adding parks and trails and updating existing buildings and property if it will improve the community.

• The tax must be approved by the majority of voters. 

• The Board of Aldermen must vote to collect the tax and can suspend or repeal it any time.

• This sales tax does not authorize the City to incur additional debt; it only authorizes the City to collect a sales tax to produce revenue for economic development activities.

2. How will businesses in the redevelopment area be impacted?

Some businesses will be purchased to allow for flood mitigation. Those that will remain will see a reduction in flooding and improved access to their businesses from MoDOT improvements. These improvements are also expected to provide a better opportunity for new business development in the area.

3. Has the City made a decision on the types of land uses or economic development projects they would like to see in the project area?

While final plans are still in development, the community has requested that the project include green spaces to enhance walkability and pedestrian safety, and that the City focus on securing non-chain restaurants and small local businesses as part of future development plans.

4. How much acreage will be available for economic development once the project is complete?

About 25 acres (on the south side of Manchester Road) will be available. The City has also identified approximately five additional potential redevelopment parcels on the north side of Manchester Road.

5. How will Brentwood Bound impact local property taxes?

The city does not assess a local property tax. The funding of Brentwood Bound will not change local property tax rates.

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Brentwood Bound: Flood Mitigation

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1. How will this plan reduce flooding in the area?

Stormwater flooding has inundated the area along Deer Creek between Hanley Road and South Brentwood Boulevard 26 times since 1957, creating significant public safety issues and causing property damage. 

The Deer Creek Flood Mitigation project includes the planning, design and construction of improvements to the Deer Creek channel and floodplain to alleviate ongoing flooding problems and protect properties from frequent flooding. These updates will also provide a greater opportunity for businesses to move to the area.

2. What is floodplain restoration?

Floodplain restoration is the process of fully or partially restoring low-lying areas next to streambanks to their original conditions, so that they’re able to accommodate larger overflows of water after large or intense storms.

The floodplain area along Deer Creek has been previously filled and developed, and has subsequently experienced flooding problems. This project will restore some natural floodplain areas along Deer Creek to serve their natural flood control and habitat functions. The end result will consist of low-lying areas with natural vegetation that will be dry most of the time, but allowed to flood following large or intense storms. 

3. Could the city raise the land in the flood prone areas instead of doing flood mitigation?

The City of Brentwood has adopted FEMA guidelines for floodplain regulations, which do not allow for raising low-lying land in flood-prone areas, a practice that has been found to actually increase overall flood risk. These regulations can be found in the City of Brentwood’s Floodplain Ordinance.

4. Why does this area flood?

The area that floods in Brentwood along Deer Creek is a location where the natural floodplain along the creek was filled in and developed (approximately 100 years ago). Since that time, the nearly 37-square-mile watershed area upstream has fully developed, increasing the amount of impervious areas (primarily buildings and pavement) and the rate at which stormwater runoff reaches Deer Creek. In Brentwood, the Deer Creek channel slope flattens out and the velocities in the channel slow down at the confluence with Black Creek, and this is an area where the flow of water can get backed up, much like traffic gets backed up on a highway.

5. Where will flooding be eliminated?

Flooding is planned to be eliminated along the Manchester Road corridor, between Brentwood Boulevard and Hanley Road.

A map of the proposed changes in floodplain for Deer Creek and Black Creek is available at this link.

6. How will standing water be addressed in the areas that will gather water?

The floodplain bench will be designed to drain toward the creek to avoid wet spots from forming and becoming stagnant. When the floodplain bench area is flooded, the water will generally be deep and not stay in the area for long periods of time. Any green infrastructure will have an underdrain to drain the water until the area is dry following rain events. The City will also utilize a fountain or other feature to keep the pond’s water moving, ensuring water does not remain stagnant.

7. How will this project affect municipalities upstream and downstream?

The goal in the project's design and engineering is to produce no rise in Deer Creek water surface elevation for neighboring communities.

8. Will water and sewage flow into Deer Creek?

The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (MSD) is working through its Project Clear to minimize combined sewer overflows into Deer Creek. MSD is undertaking these efforts separately from the Brentwood Bound project.

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Brentwood Bound: Manchester Road Improvements

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1. What improvements are planned for Manchester Road?

The City of Brentwood is working with the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) to update the roadway, improve pedestrian access and safety, and enhance the overall appearance of Manchester Road from Hanley Road to Bremerton Road. 

Additionally, the Brentwood Bound plan would add a pedestrian tunnel at the Mary Avenue intersection, provide for more sidewalks and important ADA improvements, and upgrade traffic signals in the area, making it a much easier place for pedestrians to navigate.

2. How will sidewalks be improved?

The Brentwood Bound plan includes a 10-foot shared-use path along the south side of Manchester Road and a 5-foot shared-use path along the north side of Manchester Road.

3. How will traffic be impacted during construction?

To minimize the impact on traffic, MoDOT plans to complete most resurfacing overnight, with no more than two lanes closed at a time. All lanes are expected to remain open during most days of construction.

Sidewalk construction and the rebuilding of business entrances will also be coordinated to minimize impact, with crews working in either MoDOT’s right-of-way or on private property (in which the department has obtained an easement). Crews will make sure customers can access all businesses at all times.

A portion of the project will replace the bridge over Black Creek west of the Manchester Road and Hanley Road intersection. At this point, there will be roadway construction impacts; the exact impacts have not yet been determined. 

4. Why is there a tunnel planned at Mary Avenue?

The grade of the land at Mary Avenue and Manchester Road is too high of a slope to have a crossing at street level. The addition of the tunnel allows for better ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) access and improves safety by allowing those using the trails and paths to cross under Manchester Road. It will also help the flow of traffic by not adding a street-level crossing. This design also provided access to additional grant funding for the project.

5. How is the Mary Avenue tunnel being funded?

More than 70% of the $4.8 million tunnel is being funded through grants from MoDOT, Great Rivers Greenway and the East-West Gateway Council of Governments.

6. How will water be kept out of the tunnel at Mary Avenue?

The tunnel will be designed to stay as dry as possible, through a combination of stormwater management, raingardens/bioswales and pervious pavers in the shoulder area of the tunnel. Stormwater management involves grading slopes to capture storm water runoff before it gets to the tunnel and redirecting it to the raingardens or to storm drains that pipe water under Manchester Road.

7. What is the plan for Van Mark Way?

The Brentwood Bound Manchester Road Improvements project includes an underground pedestrian tunnel at the intersection with Mary Avenue. At the Brentwood Bound public open house events on November 1 and November 3, 2018, the plans showed this elimination of the Van Mark Way connection to Manchester Road to make way for the tunnel. The City of Brentwood and TWM Engineering have been in contact with the Brentwood Place property owners about this project since early 2018.

The initial design (presented to the public on November 1 and 3, 2018) proposed bringing Van Mark Way through Rogers Parkway and creating a new intersection with Dorothy Avenue. This new intersection would have been 180 feet south of the existing Mary/Florence/Dorothy intersection. After a review by Missouri Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration concluded Rogers Parkway is considered parkland, the design team determined Van Mark Way could not be built through Rogers Parkway. The design team then pivoted to moving the Brentwood Place apartment complex access north to connect to the Florence/Mary intersection. This updated plan (presented to the public at the Brentwood Bound open house event on March 6, 2019) removes the roadway through a park and increases safety for users of Rogers Parkway and drivers by reducing the number of intersections. This will add 400 feet of vehicular travel to get to Manchester Road from Brentwood Place apartment complex. The playground and playground equipment in Rogers Parkway will be removed as part of this plan.

Van Mark Way Access Comparisons

Brentwood Place Apartments Signing-Striping Details

8. Will the power lines along Manchester Road be buried?

The option of burying the power lines was explored, but at an estimated cost of $13 million to $15 million it was deemed cost prohibitive during this phase of planning. In the past, developers have assisted with burying the utility lines during construction of new businesses. This will be the City’s goal with the future developments as well.

9. Where will pedestrian crossings be located along Manchester Road?

The planned pedestrian crossing locations and types, from east to west, along Manchester Road:

• Hanley Road: Signalized intersection with crosswalks
• Melvin Avenue: Mid-block crossing (“zebra” striping) with actuated pedestrian flashers
• Cecelia Avenue: Mid-block crossing (“zebra” striping) with actuated pedestrian flashers
• Mary/Dorothy Avenue: Pedestrian underpass connected by sidewalk from Manchester
• Brentwood Boulevard: Signalized intersection with crosswalks
• Manderly Drive: Mid-block crossing (“zebra” striping) with actuated pedestrian flashers

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Brentwood Bound: Moratorium

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1. What is the development moratorium that the City has approved?

It is a six-month period that began on July 16, 2018, during which the City will not accept, consider, or act upon rezoning applications, variance requests, or conditional use permits that would change the current, actual use of property in the area. In January 2019, the Board of Aldermen approved an extension of the moratorium. The moratorium expired on April 1, 2019.

More information: Ordinance 4847

2. What area of Brentwood is subject to the moratorium?

More information: Ordinance 4845

3. Why was there a moratorium?

The City has been exploring the redevelopment of the area and studying land uses to determine what land uses should be encouraged in the area in the future.

4. Does this mean I’ll have to stop using my property as I use it currently?

No. Even if the City changes future land uses in the moratorium area, as long as you continue to use your property for its current use, without interruption, your current use will be “grandfathered” in to the plan.

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Brentwood Bound: Proposition B

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1. What was the result of the Proposition B vote on April 2, 2019?

On April 2, 2019, Brentwood voters approved Proposition B, an economic development sales tax to fully fund the Brentwood Bound plan, by a 3-to-1 margin. 

2. What is Proposition B?

Proposition B is a proposal for a one-half of one percent economic development sales tax in the City of Brentwood. The City plans to use the funds to pay for the Brentwood Bound plan.

3. What is an economic development sales tax?

Municipalities are authorized by state statute to implement a sales tax for economic development. 

• This sales tax must be used for economic development activities detailed in the statute.

  • This can include improving or building roads, sidewalks and other infrastructure, adding parks and trails and updating existing buildings and property if it will improve the community.

• The tax must be approved by the majority of voters. 

• The Board of Aldermen must vote to collect the tax and can suspend or repeal it any time.

• This sales tax does not authorize the City to incur additional debt; it only authorizes the City to collect a sales tax to produce revenue for economic development activities.

4. How will Proposition B funds be used?

The Board of Aldermen voted to restrict the use of the funds to the implementation of the Brentwood Bound plan.

5. How long will the city collect the economic development sales tax?

The City plans to collect the tax from January 1, 2020, through 2044.  

6. How much will the economic development sales tax cost an average shopper?

The one-half of one percent sales tax results in an additional nickel on a $10 purchase, or 50 cents on a $100 purchase.

7. How much revenue will be generated from the sales tax?

A one-half of one percent economic development sales tax is estimated to generate $3.2 million per year for the City of Brentwood.

8. Is there a sunset clause for the sales tax?

Yes, the City will stop collecting the sales tax by 2044.

9. Do sales tax rates impact where people shop?

Researchers at Kellogg Insight have found that, overall, sales tax rates are not noticeable enough to consumers to make them change their shopping behavior. Instead, consumers choose where to shop based on availability of goods, convenience, price and prior shopping experiences.

10. Who provides the majority of our sales tax revenue?

It is estimated that more than 75% of the tax revenue generated in the City of Brentwood comes from shoppers who do not live in Brentwood.

11. How will Brentwood Bound impact local property taxes?

The city does not assess a local property tax. The funding of Brentwood Bound will not change local property tax rates.

12. How did Proposition B appear on the ballot?

PROPOSITION B

Shall the City of Brentwood impose a sales tax of one-half of one percent for economic development purposes, including flood mitigation, transportation improvements, pedestrian greenways and economic revitalization, for a period not to exceed twenty-five years?

[ ] Yes [ ] No

If you are in favor of the question, place an “X” in the box opposite “Yes.”  If you are opposed to the question, place an “X” in the box opposite “No.”

13. When was the election?

Prop. B was on the ballot for the general municipal election on Tuesday, April 2, 2019.

14. How do I register to vote?

For voter registration information, contact the St. Louis County Election Board at 314.615.1800 or visit them online at https://www.stlouisco.com/Your-Government/Elections/Voter-Registration.

15. How can I vote absentee?

Registered voters may request that an absentee ballot be mailed to them via the St. Louis County Board of Election. To request an absentee ballot, contact the St. Louis County Election Board at 314.615.1800 or visit them online at www.stlouisco.com/yourgovernment/elections.

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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?

Yes. Please arrange for an appointment by calling 314.963.8612 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. How do I obtain a Proof of Residency Form to be able to get the resident rate at The Heights Community Center?

As long as you have an updated occupancy permit, all you need to do is stop by The Heights with your driver's license or other photo ID and an unpaid utility bill. If you need to make changes to your occupancy permit, stop by the Planning and Development Department at Brentwood City Hall.

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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 Brentwood 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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Police Department: Body-Worn Cameras (BWCs)

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1. Is your Body-Worn Camera Policy publicly available?

Yes. The policy is posted on our website.

General Order: Digital Body Cameras

2. Who is issued body cameras?

Every officer is issued a camera except for Command Staff.

3. How many cameras will the Brentwood Police Department deploy?

The Brentwood Police Department will deploy 25 cameras.

4. When are the body-worn cameras (BWC) turned on?

Brentwood Police Department’s Body-Worn Camera Policy details a series of situations for which a BWC should be activated. Essentially, the BWC will be activated for all law enforcement functions.

General Order: Digital Body Cameras

5. Why can't a BWC continuously record an entire shift?

Officers perform a multitude of tasks throughout their shift. Much of that involves administrative duties such as report writing and directed patrol. Throughout the officer’s shift, there are instances where the officer may have an expectation of privacy (restroom break, lunch break, phone call). Continuously recording during the officer’s 12-hour shift would stress the system and drain network resources (such as video management and storage space).

6. Where will the BWC video be stored?

Body-worn camera video will be stored on premises on a secure server located within the Brentwood Ppolice Department.

7. How long is the BWC video kept?

All BWC-captured recordings not scheduled for court proceedings, litigation, active investigations, or departmental uses shall be maintained for 30 days in accordance with Missouri Police Clerks’ Records Retention Schedule.

Missouri Police Clerks' Records Retention Schedule

8. Does the officer have to tell me when I'm being recorded?

Officers are not obligated to announce if they have activated their body-worn camera.

9. What if I don't want to be recorded?

This depends on the situation. There may be times when an individual may not wish to be recorded, especially in locations where they may have an expectation of privacy (such as a residence). If the officer feels that stopping the recording will not in any way hamper the investigation, then the officer may choose to turn off the BWC. Howerver, officers are not obligated to stop the recording of incidents involving an investigation, lawful search, arrest, or other circumstances that clearly dictate that continued recording is necessary.

10. Can an officer record inside my home?

Yes. However, in locations where individuals may have a reasonable expectation of privacy (such as a residence), individuals may request that the officer refrain from recording them. Officers will evaluate each situation and, when an officer deems it appropriate, may honor the individual’s request.

11. Will interviews with witnesses and victims be recorded?

It depends on the situation. Individuals may request that an officer not record them. Officers will evaluate each situation and, when an officer deems it appropriate, may honor the individual’s request.

12. Will officers use BWCs to record casual conversations involving community members?

Generally, no. The Brentwood Police Department’s primary use of the cameras will be in situations when officers are responding to calls for service and during law enforcement functions, such as traffic stops, arrests, searches, interviews and pursuits.

13. Why shouldn't all video recorded by police be available to the public?

Requests for video are subject to the Missouri Sunshine Law.

Additionally, one of the most critical issues for people interacting with the police is privacy. Individuals often desire to seek police assistance when they are going through difficult personal challenges. Some individuals have strong specific privacy protections, particularly juveniles. Victims also have privacy protections in the law. 

Missouri Sunshine Law

14. What are the limitations of Body-Worn Cameras?

While BWCs can be a useful tool and can provide a unique perspective on police encounters, there are limitations, including:

• The camera cannot capture what happened outside of the camera’s view or potentially the causation for actions shown, depending on the camera’s perspective and breadth of view. How the camera is mounted and the angle at which the camera is mounted affect the perception of what is seen (officer, suspect, witness, victim perspectives).
• The camera cannot record some important danger cues (such as smells, tensing of muscles, increased pulse rate, physical resistance).
• The night vision component of the camera can see far better than the human eye.
• Camera speed differs from the speed of life.
• An officer’s body may unintentionally block the view of the camera.

15. Who can I contact if I have questions about the Brentwood Police Department's Body-Worn Camera (BWC) program?

Please contact Major James McIntyre or Major Angela Hawkins.

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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?

SEWER LATERAL REPAIR PROCESS STEP-BY-STEP OVERVIEW (as of January 1, 2020)

1. Sewer lateral backup occurs.
2. Property owner contacts licensed plumber to open sewer lateral blockage.
3. Property owner pays plumber for opening sewer lateral flow.
4. If sewer lateral flow opens and no qualified defect exists, then the issue is resolved at this point.
5. If sewer lateral shows evidence of defect(s), the property owner contacts Brentwood Public Works, completes Sewer Lateral Repair Program Application, obtains three (3) repair quotes and submits the quotes to Public Works.
6. Public Works staff conducts investigation to determine if repairs qualify for the program and reviews the three submitted repair quotes.
7. Public Works contacts property owner, discusses repair quotes, and with owner’s input accepts quote in the best interest to City of Brentwood.
8. Property owner hires mutually approved contractor and pays respective share of repair costs. Repairs up to $3,500 will be paid by City of Brentwood; property owner pays for repairs exceeding $3,500.

In an emergency situation, if the blockage is not removed/defect detected/sewer lateral collapsed, then the property owner may only need one quote in step 5. 

Learn more about the Sewer Lateral Repair Program

3. 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.

4. 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: 314.962.4800. Missouri Regional Poison Center at Cardinal Glennon Hospital: 314.772.5200 Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800.784.2433 Rape Crisis Hotline: 314.531.7273

2. How do I contact utility companies?

Spire (formerly Laclede Gas Company): 314.621.6960

Ameren Missouri (Electric; Streetlight or Power Outage, Downed Wires): 800.552.7583

Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (Stormwater and Wastewater Issues): 314.768.6260

Missouri American Water Company (Water Main Breaks or Leaks): 866.430.0820

Charter Communications (Cable/TV): 636.441.7511

3. Where can I find trash pickup information?

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

More...

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

Brentwood Boulevard and Hanley Road.: St. Louis County, 314.615.1120

Manchester Road.: Missouri Department of Transportation, 888.275.6636

All other Brentwood streets: Brentwood Public Works Department, 314.962.4800

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

The Brentwood Fire Department offers free child car seat installation. This service also provides the opportunity to check your existing seat for proper installment. Call 314.963.8612 or email carseat@brentwoodmo.org.

6. 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.

7. Where can I find the Guide for Residents?

The Guide for Residents is found on the city's website and also may be obtained from the Planning & Development Department when applying for an occupancy permit.

Guide for Residents

8. 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...

9. What is the holiday trash pickup schedule?

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

10. What items are accepted for curbside recycling?

The City of Brentwood provides curbside recycling for all residents.

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.