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1. What is the purpose of a commercial occupancy permit?

The commercial occupancy permit verifies that the proposed business is located within the proper zoning district and is using a building that meets all structural, fire and health codes and is safe for occupancy.

2. When is a commercial occupancy permit required?

Each time any part of a commercial building changes tenants or owners, or anytime a new business is being proposed for a site, the new tenant or owner is required to apply for a commercial occupancy permit in the Department of Community Development on the fourth floor of City Hall, 6801 Delmar Boulevard.

3. How do you apply for a commercial occupancy permit?

The first step to obtaining a commercial occupancy permit would be to submit an application to the Department of Community Development. You will need to know the number of square feet your business will occupy, the name of the business owner and/or corporate officers, number of parking spaces available to your business, name of the building owner, including address and phone number and the number of employees your business will hire. This application must be accompanied with the appropriate fee. This is a one time fee so long as your business occupies the same address. The fee covers the city’s costs for inspection of the proposed business premises. Fees are $28.50 for an office smaller than 3,000 square feet, $57 for a non-office space smaller than 3,000 feet and $100.50 for all spaces 3,000 feet or more. Upon receiving your application, the Zoning Administrator will verify whether or not the type and location of the proposed business is permitted under the University City Zoning Code. If it is not a permitted use, you will be notified in writing. Certain businesses must go through special procedures to obtain zoning approval. (See information on conditional uses). However, if it is a permitted use, the Zoning Administrator will forward your application to the Commercial Building Inspector for an inspection.

4. What will the inspection cover?

The inspector will check for adequacy of exits, fire protection equipment, fire resistance, sanitary facilities, property maintenance code compliance, parking facilities and landscaping in accordance with health and safety standards. A commercial occupancy inspection of a residence deals with the space being used, the bathroom which serves it and the general utilities. If the business meets all zoning, structural, fire and health standards, a commercial occupancy permit will be issued. You will then be notified by mail to pick up the commercial occupancy permit and pay for your business license at the Collector's Office on the first floor of City Hall. (See information on business licenses.)

NOTE: If food will be served or sold you will need to call the St. Louis County Health Department at 314-615-8900.