ADU, Subdivision & Development in St. Louis City
Exploring an ADU, lot split, or development? Get local zoning guidance for the City of St. Louis.
St. Louis City Planning Resources
St. Louis City Planning & Urban Design
Zoning, subdivisions, development review
1015 Locust St, Suite 1200, St. Louis, MO 63101
(314) 622-3400
Visit Website →St. Louis City Building Division
Permits and inspections
1200 Market St, Room 512, St. Louis, MO 63103
(314) 622-3313
Visit Website →Development in St. Louis City
Historic District Considerations
Many St. Louis City neighborhoods are in historic districts. ADUs and new construction may require Cultural Resources Office review for design compatibility. Plan for extra review time.
ADU/Accessory Dwelling
Allowed in many zones. Historic carriage houses common. Check zoning and historic requirements.
Lot Subdivision
Contact Planning & Urban Design. Urban lots may have limited subdivision potential.
Condo Conversion
Convert multi-family to condos. Creates separate sellable units from investment property.
Sell to Developer
STL City developers buy properties with potential. Skip the entitlement process.
Development projects too complex? Sell your property to an investor who handles permits and construction. Get your free property options report →
St. Louis City Development FAQs
Can I build an ADU in St. Louis City?
St. Louis City allows ADUs in certain residential zones with conditions. Requirements include minimum lot size, setbacks, parking, and in some cases owner-occupancy. Many neighborhoods have existing carriage houses and coach houses that can be converted. Contact Planning & Urban Design for your specific zoning district's rules.
What about ADUs in historic districts?
St. Louis City has many historic districts. ADU construction or conversion in historic areas requires review by the Cultural Resources Office and may need to meet preservation standards for materials, design, and compatibility. This adds time and requirements but doesn't necessarily prevent ADUs.
How do I subdivide property in St. Louis City?
Contact the Planning & Urban Design Agency at (314) 622-3400. You'll need a survey showing proposed lot lines, compliance with minimum lot sizes and frontage, and review for utility access. Process typically takes 3-6 months for simple splits, longer for larger subdivisions.
Can I convert a multi-family building to condos?
Yes, St. Louis City allows condo conversions. You'll need to work with Planning for any zoning issues and file a condo declaration with the Recorder of Deeds. Each unit becomes separately sellable. This can be a way to unlock value in multi-family buildings.
What if I have a vacant lot in St. Louis City?
Vacant lots in St. Louis City have various options: build new construction, sell to a developer, or in some cases combine with adjacent property. Check zoning for what can be built. LRA (Land Reutilization Authority) properties and city-owned lots have specific processes.
Documents for St. Louis City Development Projects
Having these items ready helps us give you accurate guidance faster:
- Property deed
- Current survey/plat
- Zoning classification
- Historic district info (if applicable)
- Title report
- Previous permits
- Tax abatement status (if any)
- Building inspection reports
Don’t have everything? That’s okay – start with what you have.
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If you're dealing with property issues and have already decided that selling is your best path forward, we can help you understand your options – including timeline, equity, and what to expect. No pressure, just clarity.
Get Help With Your St. Louis City Development Project
Free consultation on ADUs, subdivisions, or selling with development potential.
Important: This information is educational and specific to the City of St. Louis, Missouri. Always verify requirements with the Planning & Urban Design Agency.