The Department of Building Development Services implements and monitors a variety of city, state, and federal codes, and four trades (electrical, plumbing, gas and mechanical). It also offers essential information for businesses, homeowners, landlords, tenants, contractors, and developers. The following list is a few of the many services provided by the Department:

• Issues permits for all phases of building construction
• Implements building codes
• Implements zoning
• Monitors demolition and movement of existing buildings
• Monitors all signage
• Certifies trade crafts (electricians, plumbers, gas, and mechanical licenses)
• Maintains minimum parking ratios
• Implements flood plain ordinances
• Inspects for buffer yards and tree planting in commercial areas
• Implements Dangerous Building Code

MISSION
To assure the Health, Safety, and Welfare of the Springfield Community through a commitment to:

Cooperative Quality Code Enforcement, Quality Information, Courtesy, Integrity and Diplomacy, Timely Dissemination of Information, Improvement of Knowledge and Services, and Open-Mindedness.

We are here to serve the building and development needs of the community in an expeditious manner.

With guidance from City Council, we will achieve quality development in the City of Springfield.

Zoning provides planning for better neighborhoods
Springfield is a zoned community where business, industry, and residential development are controlled to allow good neighbors to live in a growing community. See Zoning & Subdivision Services for more information.

Before you locate or relocate, it is important to understand the reasons development is controlled. Requiring building permits helps us help you understand zoning rules, which are discussed and approved by both the Planning and Zoning Commission and the City Council after public hearings.

Signage regulations guide businesses in Springfield
Signs on or around businesses, and virtually everywhere else, have been included in the City's sign ordinance. This includes political signs (not permitted on public property), real estate signs, and temporary signs.

Compliance begins by understanding the intent of the ordinance, which was written following many months of discussion with citizens and with the business community.

Permits are required for most signs, and are explained in an informational packet available on the first floor of the Busch Municipal Building, 840 Boonville.
Sign Permit Application (65k)
Temporary Sign Permit Application (40k)

Plan before you build or buy
This advice can help you avoid costly mistakes, unsafe results, and the expense of doing work more than once. It is wise to research development projects in detail before you buy, rent, sell, or open a business. The effort could save you time and expense...and even save lives.
Redevelopment Review Team Application (35k)
Pre-Application Conference for New Development (31k)

The Department of Building Development Services has a variety of publications and checklists to help developers, contractors, new business owners, and potential homeowners with their project. The best "tool kit" for your planning needs may be the packet and advice this department offers.

Since all contractors and subcontractors must be licensed by the City, check to make sure they are before you hire. Call 864-1622.

Crafts must be certified
Electricians, plumbers, gas fitters, and mechanical craftsmen must be tested and certified to afford competence and knowledge of the Codes.

The tests are sanctioned by the department, and administered by a private testing firm according to a regular schedule.

Contractors Annual Registration (21k)

Following the Building Codes
Springfield has adopted the International Building Code 2006 and International Model Codes 2006. The only non-2006 edition is the National Electric Code 2005.

A Plan Review Checklist offers builders, plumbers, mechanical, and, electrical contractors guides to follow. It also provides for stormwater management and issuance of land use permits around sinkholes and for those who may be considering converting an existing building to a new use. The same checklist is available for new construction, including provisions for minimum parking requirements to serve physically challenged motorists. The checklist also provides a schedule of connection fees for sanitary sewers, water, gas, and electricity.

Obtaining a permit to build
Building permits are generally required for all construction with certain exceptions. It is best to inquire first prior to beginning construction. Applicants seeking to obtain a permit need to supply specific information.

Building Permit Application
Construction Factor Calculation Data (as of July 1, 2008)
Commercial Building Permit Fee Worksheet

Contact Information
For more information about your project before you begin, please call us at 864-1056, e-mail city@springfieldmo.gov, or visit us just inside the first floor of the Busch Municipal Building, 840 Boonville Ave. Springfield, Missouri 65802