New Commercial Constructions

Step 1: Preliminary Zoning 

Prior to preparing plans, make sure to review regulations for permitted setbacks, parking requirements, permitted uses, and special permitted uses.  Review the Olivette Strategic Plan ‘Dynamic Sense of Place’ for the City’s vision relative to development. 

Step 2: PCDC Review Required

The Community Design Review considers the improvements design compatibility with adjoining properties as outlined in Chapter 425 Community Design. Improvements to property located within nine hundred fifty (950) feet from Olive Boulevard are subject to the design parameters as stated in Chapter 428 Olive Boulevard Corridor Design Regulations.

The Site Plan Review considers the potential impacts of the proposed improvements upon surrounding uses and activities.

Uses requiring special permits will be examined with the goals and objective of the Olivette Strategic Plan, intent of the zoning district, and consistency with standards and conditions set forth in Article XII Special Permits. 

MSD review may be required for alterations of certain size impervious areas.

Step 3: PCDC Staff Review

Once the petition application and plans are submitted, staff will review and comments will be forwarded to the Petitioner noting compliance with the Chapter 425 Community Design and applicable zoning ordinances. Additional staff comments shall be provided for improvements that require review under Chapter 428 Community Design Olive Boulevard Corridor, Chapter 422 Stormwater Management, and Special Permits. An onsite meeting with the architect or engineer who prepared the plans may be required. During this time, the Petitioner should notify adjacent property owners of the proposed improvements under review.

Step 4: PCDC Consideration and Approval


Upon completion of 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. The Commission has up to 120 days to approve or disapprove a non-residential petition.

Petitions for approval of special permit uses will be forwarded to the City Council for consideration of approval during a scheduled meeting. During City Council consideration of approval, a public hearing will be held regarding the authorization of the proposed uses. Public hearings require at least 15 days public notice. 

Step 5: Submit For Building Permit


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

  1. Completed application for Building Permit.
  2. Associated fee based on estimated costs.
  3. 4-sets of construction documents prepared by a State of Missouri registered architect or engineer in compliance with the 2015 International Building Code.
  4. Floor plan indicating means of egress.
  5. Site plan of the property illustrating the proposed improvements.

Fire alarm systems may require a separate permit for fire suppression.

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

Demolition Permit to raze the existing improvements may be found here.

Step 6: Inspections


The required inspections 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. Non-residential applications require a completion deposit to be paid upon the issuance of the permit in the amount of $500 or 10% of construction costs, whichever is greater, not to exceed $5,000.