Building Accessory Structures

Accessory structures consist of improvements such as pools, decks, patios, gazebos, greenhouses, play structures, amimal shelters, animal fences/pens, sheds, and detached garages.

Regulations governing accessory structures can be found under Article XVI of Chapter 400 Zoning Regulations of the Olivette Municipal Code.


Step 1: Preliminary Zoning Review

An accessory structure is a structure subordinate to the principal building found on a residential lot.  Prior to preparing plans, make sure to review regulations for permitted setbacks, area, height, number, and lot coverage as provided on the Accessory Structures Handout. Use the Residential Setback Regulations and Requirements Handout to assist in the determination of setbacks and common zoning ordinance compliance. If the accessory structure is found to comply with zoning and conforms with setback as well as size requirements noted under the Accessory Structure code, see Step 6. 

Step 2: PCDC Review 

The Community Design Review considers the compatibility of architectural and design elements of proposed improvements to the surrounding neighborhood. During the Community Design Review, the improvements will be examined for compliance with design elements as outlined in Olivette Residential Redevelopment and Design Guidelines and Article XVI Accessory Structure and Uses.

The Site Plan Review analyzes the impact of certain improvements on the surrounding neighborhood. The Site Plan Review may be required for setback variations, and accessory improvements in excess of number, or size as set forth under the Accessory Structure Code.

The Concept Stormwater Management Plan Review examines impacts of Stormwater runoff and management on the subject and adjacent properties. Various techniques to manage Stormwater may be applied.

Step 3: PCDC Submittal Requirements

Submit the following documents for Commission Review:

  • Completed application
  • 1 set of plans (PDF version emailed to the Department of Planning and Community Development)
  • Review Fee

Step 4: PCDC Staff Review


Once submitted, staff will review the application and comments will be forwarded to the Petitioner noting compliance with Chapter 425, Concept Stormwater Management Plan, and applicable zoning ordinances. An onsite meeting with the Petitioner may be required. During this time, the Petitioner should notify adjacent property owners and subdivision trustees of the proposed improvements under review.

Step 5: PCDC Consideration and Approval


Upon completion of the staff review, the petition shall be forwarded to the Planning and Community Design Commission for consideration of approval during a scheduled meeting. During Commission consideration of approval, the public and Petitioner will be able to comment on the proposed improvements. The Commission has the authority to set conditions of approval.  Once the Petition has been introduced at a Commission meeting, the Commission has up to 60 days to approve or disapprove a residential petition. 

Step 6: Submit For Building Permit


Plans submitted for a building permit must incorporate any conditions of approval placed by the Planning and Community Design Commission. Requirements for a building permit include: 

  1. Completed application for Building Permit.
  2. Associated fee based on estimated costs.
    1. 3-sets of construction documents. Structural improvements must be prepared by a State of Missouri registered architect or engineer in compliance with the 2015 International Residential Code.
    2. Site plan of the property illustrating the existing and proposed improvements

Plans proposing modifications to an issued building permit must submit an addendum with the requirements previously mentioned. 

Step 7: Inspections 


The required inspections and completion deposit will be identified upon the issuance of a building permit. Twenty-four hour notice is required for inspections. Separate mechanical, plumbing, and electrical permits must be obtained through St. Louis County. Projects less than $7,500 do not require a completion deposit.