Create a Website Account - Manage notification subscriptions, save form progress and more.   

University City MO Home page
Search

Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find information that might help you understand how to find things or learn about information you might need to know about your city or town.

Public Works

11

  • Clean and dry paper, cardboard, cartons (think milk or broth), and household containers made of glass, metal and plastic. All recyclable items can be placed directly inside the blue single stream recycling cart - do not bag your materials. Plastic shopping bags can be taken to your local grocery store for recycling.

    Public Works

  • Check the University City calendar for your specific collection date. The schedule is also available online. Enter "bulk item collection" in the search box. Contact the Public Works and Parks Department at 314-505-8560.
    Public Works

  • St. Louis County Public Works Department administers the Water Service Line Program. Contact the St. Louis County Public Works Department at (314) 615-8420.
    Public Works

  • Contact Public Works at 505-8560 to request a new recycling cart. You can also request repairs to the cart.
    Public Works

  • Contact the Finance Department at 314-505-8544 to set up your new trash account. A trash cart will be delivered by the Public Works and Parks Department after your account has been set up. Request a repair to the trash or recycling cart by calling Public Works and Parks at 314-505-8560.
    Public Works

  • University City contracts with St. Louis County Vector Control for mosquito control services. Contact the Community Development Department at 314-505-8500 for additional information.
    Public Works

  • Contact Program Administrator in the Public Works and Parks Department at 314-505-8560 . The sanitary sewer lateral program application can be downloaded here.

    Public Works

  • Yes, special blue recycling containers are available in the pavilion areas at Heman, Fogerty and Millar Parks.
    Public Works

  • As of March 11th, yard waste stickers are no longer required to be attached to each biodegradable yard waste bag. Please contact the Public Works and Parks Department at 314-505-8650, with any additional questions.

    Public Works

  • There are several ways to safely dispose of and recycle electronics and appliances. Best Buy stores, Batteries Plus stores, and Spectrum-ECycle are a few places that accept small electronics.
    Public Works

  • Some hazardous chemicals and materials can be dropped off at the St. Louis County Household Hazardous Waste facility locate at 291 E. Hoffmeister, St. Louis, MO 63125 or 4100 Seven Hills Dr. 63033. Visit the program website at www.hhwstl.com for a list of acceptable materials and program guidelines, or call 314-615-8958 for more information.
    Public Works

Right of Way Permit Program

3

  • Any work performed on, above or below the public right-of-way requires a permit from the Public Works and Parks Department, including the following: Improvements that disturb or occupy the street pavement, curb & gutter, driveway entrances, sidewalk, alleys, and bikeways, bridges, landscaping or grassed areas. Utility work, excavations, borings, repair & restoration, and new construction where heavy equipment may damage the City’s right-of-way.
    Right of Way Permit Program

  • Yes! In many cases, you will need to obtain a permit from both departments, depending on the work planned. The Public Works and Parks Department has jurisdiction over all public rights-of-way. Generally, the Community Development Department issues permits for work pertaining to private property such as building, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical work. Visit both the Public Works and Parks and Community Development Departments before commencing any construction work to ensure that you have obtained the proper permits.
    Right of Way Permit Program

  • Public Works and Parks has the responsibility of controlling and regulating the use of our right-of-way to protect public safety and welfare. City right-of-way includes public streets, curbs, alleys, sidewalks, bridges, and tree lawn or grassy areas adjacent to the street. Whether a job calls for replacement or repair of underground utilities, temporary equipment storage on City streets, or construction of any type that will use or occupy city streets, sidewalks or grassy areas, users must obtain a right-of-way permit from the Public Works and Parks Department.
    Right of Way Permit Program

Police Department

3

  • Bring proof of ownership (Title, Bill of Sale, or Registration) and a picture identification to the Police Records Section.
    Police Department

  • Bonds can be made by cash, real property, or professional surety at the Police Department.
    Police Department

  • How to Commend Officer/Employee Actions:
     
     There are several ways in which you can make the Department aware when an employee has done particularly well in performing his or her job. You can:

    • Mail a brief letter or email to: Chief Larry Hampton
    • University City Police Department
      6801 Delmar Blvd.
      University City, Mo. 63130
    • Please describe the incident and the actions you think were exceptional. If you don't know the officer's name, please include information such as the type of incident, date, time, and location.
    • Email the compliment to Chief Hampton.
    • Make a verbal commendation by calling the Office of Chief of Police at 314-505-8652.

    The Chief will notify our employees of all messages received commending their actions and, where appropriate, may award additional recognition for the employee's actions.

    How to Make a Complaint

    If you wish to make a complaint regarding a Department employee, you may also do so in a number of ways. You may:

    • Call the office of the Chief of Police at (314)505-8652 and ask to speak to Chief Larry Hampton
      or
    • Contact an on-duty supervisor in person or by phone at the police station.

    All complaints will be thoroughly investigated and, where appropriate, corrective and/or disciplinary action will be taken to make sure that the incident isn't repeated. Department disciplinary summaries are available upon request by contacting the Office of the Chief of Police.
     
    For More Information on Making Commendations and Complaints

    Feel free to contact the Office of the Chief of Police at 314-505-8652.

    Police Department

Commercial Occupancy Permits

4

  • 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.
    Commercial Occupancy Permits

  • 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.
    Commercial Occupancy Permits

  • 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.
    Commercial Occupancy Permits

  • 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.
    Commercial Occupancy Permits

Occupancy Permits & Inspections

8

  • Anyone who is moving into University City must apply for and receive an occupancy permit before moving in. 

    Occupancy Permits & Inspections

  • An occupancy permit enforces the city's property maintenance code standards by requiring that an inspection be done to ensure that the house or apartment is safe for occupancy. The maintenance code standards not only protect residents' well being, but also protect financial investments and property values. Occupancy is illegal without an occupancy permit.
    Occupancy Permits & Inspections

  • Applications are made in person at the Department of Planning and Zoning on the fourth floor of City Hall, 6801 Delmar Boulevard, or via e-mail. There is a $25 charge for the application which is not refundable. Forms of payment accepted are cash, check, credit, or debit card.  There is a 3.25% convenience fee for processing card payments.

    There is a $35.00 fee for Conditional Occupancy Permits, which is to be paid prior to processing the permit.

    The occupancy permit will not be issued until the City inspects the dwelling and it is found satisfactory for occupancy. 

    To submit an application via email, please send to: inspections@ucitymo.org

    Occupancy Permits & Inspections

  • To submit an application via email, please send to: inspections@ucitymo.org


    Occupancy Permits & Inspections

  • Anyone who plans to sell their home or who plans to rent out an apartment or home should make arrangements to have it inspected before it is put on the market. Inspections can be arranged by filling out the application form found on our website or in person at City Hall. There is a charge of $60 per unit for the inspection on rental applications. There is a charge of $80 per unit for the inspection on a home sale.

    Occupancy Permits & Inspections

  • Housing inspectors check to ensure compliance with the property maintenance code. These are minimum standards set to preserve the health, safety and general welfare of the public. All inspections are conducted by housing inspectors who are trained to inspect the electrical, plumbing and heating systems as well as general building conditions.
    Occupancy Permits & Inspections

  • If the property fails inspection, correction work will be required. If repairs are minor, a conditional occupancy permit may be issued, giving the owner 60 days to complete repairs on the building while residents live there. If the work is completed within that time period, an unconditional occupancy permit will be issued to the resident. However, if work is not completed within the 60 days the City may notify both the owner and the residents that their occupancy is no longer valid. If residents continue to occupy the property after being notified, the City can take legal action against the property owner and residents.
    Occupancy Permits & Inspections

  • A valid driver's license, state ID or passport is accepted 

    Occupancy Permits & Inspections

Why and When Do I Need a Permit?

3

  • Very simply, "for your own protection." A permit guarantees the work will be inspected by the city. The inspector may discover shoddy work, faulty materials, deviations from approved plans, and violations of the code that may result in unsafe or hazardous conditions for you and your family. It is a violation of city ordinance not to have a permit when the work being performed requires one to be issued. Failure to obtain the necessary permits may result in prosecution with a fine of up to $500 plus court costs.
    Why and When Do I Need a Permit?

  • Generally, a building permit is required when any structural change, major alteration, or renovation is made to a building or when any new construction is undertaken. Normal maintenance does not require a permit in most instances. Separate permits for plumbing, electrical and mechanical work are required when applicable. You generally do not need a permit if you are doing: Minor tuckpointing, repairing plaster, painting, replacing gutters and downspouts, siding, replacing doors and windows, repairing or replacing sidewalks and driveways within the property line, and replacing shingles/roof surface materials. You generally do need a permit if you are:
  • Constructing, enlarging, moving, removing, or demolishing a structure
  • Repairing fire, tornado, flood or earthquake damage
  • Repairing, cutting, removing or replacing any structural or bearing support (i.e. cutting away any wall or partition, or boarding up or otherwise closing an exterior wall opening)
  • Installing dropped ceilings or creating concealed spaces
  • Installing combustible wall paneling
  • Installing protective bars or grills on windows or doors
  • Altering, replacing or relocating any equipment which is regulated or required by code
  • Adding to, altering, replacing or relocating any sewer, drainage, drain leader, gas, soil, waste, vent, standpipe, fire suppression, water supply or similar piping, as well as any electrical, mechanical or other work affecting public health or general safety
  • FENCES: A building permit shall be required for the erection of a new fence, a replacement fence or replacement of a section of a fence that is greater than ten feet in length. Minor repairs to sections of existing fences less than ten feet in length shall be considered minor repairs and shall not require permits.
Why and When Do I Need a Permit?

  • Mechanical, electrical and plumbing permits require two working days lead time. Building permits require seven to ten working days lead time for plan review in order to verify that the proposed project is designed in compliance with the code. When applying for a building permit two copies of detailed plans must be submitted which clearly indicate what work is to be done. When applying for permits to do construction work on multi-family, commercial or industrial buildings, all construction drawings must bear the original seal and signature of an architect or engineer registered in the state of Missouri. Also, two copies of a site plan are required, drawn to scale, showing distances from the closest point of the new structure to all property lines and to all other structures on the property.
    Why and When Do I Need a Permit?

    • Heman Park Community Center

    8

    • Seated at banquet tables, 125 for one half of the hall and 250 for the whole hall.
      Heman Park Community Center

    • No, only non-profit organizations may rent the facility for fund raising events.
      Heman Park Community Center

    • The Community Center can be rented until 1:00am.
      Heman Park Community Center

    • 6-8 people at each table-for both round and long tables.
      Heman Park Community Center

    • Yes, but you can not sell alcohol at your event. In order to have alcohol on the premises, an alcohol request fee of $10 must be received at the time of reservation.
      Heman Park Community Center

    • No, you need to include your decorating and clean up time in your fees.
      Heman Park Community Center

    • Yes, there are kitchens available. Food preparation fee is $65.
      Heman Park Community Center

    • You may use what ever catering service you choose.
      Heman Park Community Center

    Centennial Commons

    11

    • One room can hold 70 theater style and seat 50 with tables/chairs. The entire room may accomodate 140 theater style and seat 100 with tables/chairs.
      Centennial Commons

    • The only events allowed at Centennial Commons are: business meetings, birthday parties for children 11 and under, baby showers and wedding showers. All other events need to be held at the Heman Park Community Center.
      Centennial Commons

    • No, we only have resident and non-resident rates.
      Centennial Commons

    • The facility is available for rent during busines hours of operation (see brochure for Centennial Commons hours of operation). If you would like to rent after hours, there is an additional fee - and the event needs to be scheduled more than a month in advance.
      Centennial Commons

    • Yes, but all food needs to stay in the rooms, and is not allowed in the rest of the facility.
      Centennial Commons

    • No, you need to include your decorating and clean up time in your fees.
      Centennial Commons

    • No, we do not have kitchen facilities available at Centennial Commons.
      Centennial Commons

    • Yes, but you can not sell alcohol at your event. In order to have alcohol on the premises, an alcohol request fee of $10 must be received at the time of reservation.
      Centennial Commons

    • Contact Lynda Euell-Taylor at 314.505.8525 or letaylor@ucitymo.org.
      Centennial Commons

    • Our Youth Policy is as follows:

      Centennial Commons Facility Entry: Youth 11 and older can utilize WITHOUT adult supervision

      Centennial Commons Cardio Area: Ages 11 and younger are NOT allowed in this area. Ages 12 and older MUST be accompanied by a parent, guardian or caregiver (18+)

      Centennial Commons Free Weight Area: Ages 14 and younger are NOT allowed in this area. Ages 15-17 MUST be accompanied by a parent, guardian or caregiver (18+)

      Centennial Commons Track, Soccer Turf, and Gymnasium: Ages 10 and younger MUST be supervised by a parent or guardian (18+)

      Centennial Commons

    • We do not allow non-Centennial Commons personal trainers to train in our facility. To reach a personal trainer, please contact our control desk, 314-505-8625.
      Centennial Commons

    Heman Park Swimming Pool

    8

    • Those with a valid Membership are able to use the Heman Park Swimming Pool as well as Centennial Commons. Those with a valid 'Summer Fun Pass' are able to use the Heman Park Swimming Pool ONLY.

      Heman Park Swimming Pool

    • The Heman Park Pool will be open beginning Saturday, May 24, 2025 and ends on Monday, September 1, 2025.

      Daily Lap Swim: 6 a.m. - 9.a.m. 

      Daily Open Swim/Holidays: Noon-8 p.m.

      Public Swim Hours: Monday - Sunday and Holidays, 12:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M.

      **BACK TO SCHOOL HOURS BEGIN MONDAY AUGUST 18TH, 2025**

      **Daily Lap Swim: 6 a.m. - 9 a.m.**

      **Monday - Friday Open Swim: 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.**

      **Weekends (Sundays and Saturdays) and Holiday Swim: Noon - 8 p.m.**


      Heman Park Swimming Pool

    • Yes, there will be 2 sessions for the 2025 swim lessons. 

      Session I: June 3 - June 26, lessons will occur on Tuesdays AND Thursdays (Make Up Day: Fridays only due to weather related cancellations)

      Session II: July 8 - July 31, lessons will occur on Tuesdays AND Thursdays (Make Up Day: Fridays only due to weather related cancellations)

      Residents: $40/person, Non-Residents: $50/person

      For more information: 314.505.8625

      Heman Park Swimming Pool

    • Non-residents may use the Heman Park Swimming Pool. Call 314.505.8625 for more information.


      Heman Park Swimming Pool

    • Yes, you must pay to enter the Heman Park Swimming Pool facility.

      Heman Park Swimming Pool

    • Yes you are allowed to bring food and drinks into the pool. Alcohol and glass bottles are prohibited.

      Heman Park Swimming Pool

    • For more questions on guests, please contact 314.505.8625

      Heman Park Swimming Pool

    • Our Youth Policy is as follows:

      Heman Park Pool Facility Entry: Youth 12 and younger MUST be accompanied by a parent, guardian or caregiver (18+)

      Heman Park Swimming Pool

    Athletic Fields

    9

    • Contact Lynda Euell-Taylor, 314.505.8525 or letaylor@ucitymo.org with the following information: 1.) What type of field - soccer, football, baseball, softball, t-ball or machine pitch you want. 2.) What park would you prefer and time. 3.) Do you play with University City Sports Association or University City Soccer Club or another organization? 4.) Practice or game usage? 5.) Please leave your name and phone number and the best time to contact you.
      Athletic Fields

    • Outdoor field rental are on an hourly basis
      Athletic Fields

    • Lights are an additional $30 per hour of field rental period.
      Athletic Fields

    • Coaches may contact our Hotline, 314.505.8515 or our Centennial Commons control desk 314.505.8625 for field status.
      Athletic Fields

    • No, for Brittany Woods field reservations, please contact the University City School District, 314-290-4004.
      Athletic Fields

    • Restrooms are located near our Heman Park Tennis courts and east of Jack Buck Baseball fields. These facilities are available from early spring to late fall (weather permitting). Restroom facilities are always available at Centennial Commons during hours of operation.
      Athletic Fields

    • Contact Lynda Euell-Taylor at 314.505.8525 or letaylor@ucitymo.org with your turf rental request.
      Athletic Fields

    • Contact the University City Sports Association, 314-505-8740; leave your name and phone number and best time to contact you.
      Athletic Fields

    • Contact the University City Soccer Club, 314-570.1853; provide your name and phone number and best time to contact you.
      Athletic Fields

    Forestry

    5

    • The city is responsible for the removal of limbs from publicly owned trees only. Property owners must dispose of any debris from privately owned trees at their own expense. Limbs less than three inches in diameter may be cut into 4-foot lengths and bundled for collection by the Sanitation Division.

      Forestry

    • No, the subdivision is responsible for the care and maintenance of all streets in their right of way. Home owners should contact their subdivision trustee directly with any forestry related matters.
      Forestry

    • Yes, the city makes every effort to replant when a tree is lost.
      Forestry

    • An easement is given by the property owner to the utility companies to maintain power lines and retains ownership of the property. The city only owns the property on street right of ways and maintains these trees accordingly.
      Forestry

    • No, the Missouri Court of Appeals has held that the tree itself is not a nuisance except to the extent that the branches overhang the adjoining land. The property owner must engage in self-help to cut the overhanging branches at the property line.
      Forestry

    Ruth Park Golf Course

    2

    • Tournaments can be scheduled by calling our office at (314) 505-8629. You can also request a date for your tournament by filling out the following form. Tournament Request Form
      Ruth Park Golf Course

    • Lessons are offered for juniors as well as adults. You can contact our office for additional information by calling (314) 505-8629, or by completing our online form. Request for Additional Information
      Ruth Park Golf Course

    Fire Department

    2

    • Yes, the fire department does provide smoke detectors to University City residents free of charge. Please contact the nearest University City fire station for more information. Station #1 - 863 Westgate Ave. - 314-505-8768 Station #2 - 1045 North & South Rd. - 314-525-8769
      Fire Department

    • No. There are currently no certified child safety seat technicians within the fire department. For more information, and to locate an installation station please visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website below: http://www.nhtsa.gov/
      Fire Department

    Olive & 170 TIF FAQ

    7

    • 3rd Ward residents will see neighborhood improvements through the Redevelopment Plan for RPA 2. Ultimately, the City’s goal is that your neighborhood will be safer and more attractive, while still economically and racially diverse, and that the quality of housing stock and the value will increase over time.  For more details, read the University City Redevelopment Plan here.  

      Olive & 170 TIF FAQ

    • For businesses within the footprint of RPA 1, the City will offer relocation assistance and will seek funds to incentivize a move to a new location in University City. If your business is east of McKnight/Woodson, you will see improvements to the Olive Blvd corridor that will spur further economic growth and development.  For more information, read the University City Redevelopment Plan here. 

      Olive & 170 TIF FAQ

    • The TIF Act requires a municipality seeking to implement TIF to establish a TIF Commission. The TIF Commission’s role is to review, consider, and make recommendations to the City Council regarding proposed redevelopment plans, projects, and areas.  For more information, click here.

      Olive & 170 TIF FAQ

    • The TIF Commission is made up of members appointed by taxing districts that may be affected by the TIF, including the City, St. Louis County, the University City School District and the University City Public Library.

      Olive & 170 TIF FAQ

    • The City will not use eminent domain under the TIF law to condemn owner-occupied residential property. The City may use eminent domain for other properties, but only when necessary after significant efforts to acquire property by private negotiation have been exhausted. The majority of residential and commercial properties in RPA 1 are already under contract, and the Developer of RPA 1 has stated his intention to be sensitive to the wishes of property owners.

      Olive & 170 TIF FAQ

    • The City will offer (or require the Developer to offer) financial assistance for relocation (no relocations in RPA 2 or RPA 3 will be required). Homeowners and businesses who are displaced will be offered incentives to relocate within University City. The goal of the City is for all displaced residents and businesses to remain in the community.

      Olive & 170 TIF FAQ

    • The City anticipates that, if approved, the RPA 1 project will begin construction in 2019 and open for business in 2020. The Developer’s projected schedule can be found here (page 22 of Developer’s Plan).  Redevelopment programs for RPA 2 and RPA 3 will be initiated as funding permits.

      Olive & 170 TIF FAQ
    Government Websites by CivicPlus®
    Arrow Left Arrow Right
    Slideshow Left Arrow Slideshow Right Arrow