[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §1), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 17-0431, 9-28-2017; Ord. No. 17-0472, 10-27-2017; Ord. No. 18-0499, 12-10-2018]
A. 
It is hereby found and determined that adoption of nationally recognized standard codes is necessary for the promotion of the public health, safety and welfare of Jefferson County, Missouri. Accordingly, the following technical codes, one (1) copy of which is on file in the Department of the County Clerk, are adopted and incorporated in this Article by reference as if fully set forth, except as they may be amended by other provisions of this Chapter:
1. 
International Building Code 2015.
2. 
International Residential Building Code 2015.
3. 
International Fire Code 2015.
4. 
International Fuel Gas Code 2015.
5. 
International Mechanical Code 2015.
6. 
International Energy Conservation Code 2015.
7. 
International Plumbing Code 2015.
8. 
National Electric Code 2014/Jefferson County Electrical Code 2017.
9. 
International Swimming Pool and Spa Code 2015.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §2), 8-9-2011]
These regulations shall be known as the Jefferson County Building Code and will be referred to herein as the "Building Code".
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §3), 8-9-2011]
The purpose of this Article is to provide for the administration and enforcement of the technical codes adopted in Section 500.010.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §4), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
This Chapter shall be in full force and effect from and after the date of its passage. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this Chapter are hereby repealed.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §5), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
The Code Commission has the duties, responsibilities, powers and obligations prescribed by the Home Rule Charter of Jefferson County Missouri and found in this Code.
B. 
The Code Commission shall meet in accordance with its adopted bylaws.
C. 
The Code Commission shall, pursuant to the regulations and standards herein and elsewhere set forth, establish qualifications of and provide for the examining and licensing of applicants who meet the qualifications and successfully pass the appropriate examinations required under this Code.
D. 
The Code Official shall select independent testing firms to design and administer any examinations provided for under this Code or may design and provide for the administration of a test through the Code Enforcement Division.
E. 
The Code Commission shall consider and take action to hear appeals of license applications denied by the Code Official. For any application that is rejected, the Code Official shall notify the applicant in writing of the reasons for rejection, within fifteen (15) days after the Code Official's action.
F. 
The Code Commission shall have the power to suspend and revoke any license issued pursuant to this Section for cause. The Chairman or Acting Chairman, with the approval of the Code Commission, shall provide for the administration of oaths, compel the production of books, papers and tangible things and the inspection of premises pertinent to any investigation or hearing authorized by this Section. The failure to comply with the lawful demand of the Commission will, in itself, be considered by the Code Commission as a factor leading to its decision in any matter before it and shall constitute a violation of this Code.
G. 
The Code Commission shall have the authority, after providing opportunity for public participation and comment, to adopt rules and regulations to interpret and implement the provisions of this Code with respect to licensing, continuing education, and any other matters within the general authority of the Code Commission. A copy of any rules or regulations proposed for adoption by the Code Commission shall be made available for public inspection at least thirty (30) days prior to the Code Commission meeting at which the adoption is to be considered. Copies of all rules and regulations adopted by the Code Commission shall be mailed to all persons or entities holding a license that is affected by the rule or regulation.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §6), 8-9-2011]
A. 
Code Official Authority. The Code Official shall be the Director of County Services and Code Enforcement of Jefferson County, Missouri, or his duly authorized representative who is vested with executive and administrative authority to enforce all laws, ordinances and codes regulating construction, alteration, addition, repair, removal, demolition, use, location, occupancy and maintenance of all buildings and structures, electrical, plumbing, drain-laying and mechanical systems pursuant to the Jefferson County Code as amended. Said Director shall be appointed and qualified pursuant to Jefferson County Charter and shall be empowered as necessary in the interest of public health, safety and general welfare to adopt and promulgate rules and regulations to interpret and implement the provisions of this Code, to secure the intent thereof. Such rules shall have the effect of furthering or interpreting public safety.
B. 
Powers And Duties Of Code Official.
1. 
It shall be the duty of the Code Official to cause plans to be reviewed and approved and to conduct inspections for which permits have been issued, in a manner and to the extent necessary to carry out the provisions of this Code regulating such installations in all buildings and premises, public and private, in the course of erection, alteration, reconstruction, testing or repair and cause the inspection of existing installations as often as may be necessary to insure health, safety and general welfare of the public. He shall see that all work is done in accordance with the provisions of this Code and that persons duly authorized to do such work do the work. The approval of plans and the performance of inspections shall not be construed so as to relieve the contractor of complying with all the provisions of this Code. He shall have the power to recommend suspension or revocation of any license, registration and/or certification issued pursuant to this Code.
2. 
Upon presentation of proper credentials, the Code Official shall have the authority to enter at reasonable times any building, structure or premises to perform any duty imposed upon him by this Code, subject to constitutional restrictions on unreasonable searches and seizures. If entry is refused or not obtained, the Code Official is authorized to pursue recourse as provided by law and the person who failed to provide entry will be subject to the penalties provided in this Code.
3. 
Hindering, obstructing, resisting, or failing to provide entry at reasonable times or otherwise interfering with the Code Official in the performance of his official duties shall be a violation of this Code.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §6.1), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
The time period authorized to complete construction of permits issued by the Jefferson County Code Enforcement Division shall not exceed one (1) year from the date the permit is issued, unless an extension period not to exceed one (1) year is granted by the Code Official. No extension shall be granted except for reasonable cause. A permit is "completed" when work undertaken has passed a final inspection. In addition to any other remedies provided for by this Code, when a permit has expired and the work has not been completed, the Code Official shall have the authority to disconnect service utilities in accordance with Section 500.270(D) of this Code.
B. 
The time period authorized to complete work authorized by a demolition permit issued by the Jefferson County Code Enforcement Division shall not exceed one hundred eighty (180) days or the amount of time granted by the Code Official, whichever is less. No extension shall be granted except for reasonable cause. A permit is "completed" when work undertaken has passed a final inspection. In addition to any other remedies provided for by this Code, when a permit has expired and the work has not been completed, the Code Official shall have the authority to disconnect service utilities in accordance with Section 500.270(D) of this Code.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §7), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
Authority. The Code Official shall be and is hereby authorized to grant a license to any person, firm or corporation (hereinafter "contractor") found to be qualified to engage in the work of installing or altering any plumbing fixtures, appurtenances, apparatus, equipment or components thereof used in the installation of a plumbing system within or adjacent to any structure. The license shall be issued in the name of the contractor and a responsible person shall be listed on the license. The license shall be valid for a period of three (3) years.
B. 
Requirements For Licensure.
1. 
The Code Official shall receive, record and preserve all applications from contractors made for a license to engage in the business of plumbing. A contractor applying for a plumbing license must demonstrate that at least one (1) employee is at least twenty-one (21) years of age and has passed the approved exam for a master plumber with a score of seventy percent (70%) or greater within the past six (6) years and satisfies one (1) of the following experience requirements:
a. 
A graduate of a mechanical trade school, with an emphasis in plumbing, and has at least four (4) years of practical experience on plumbing work or has had at least one (1) year of practical experience in planning, laying out, supervising and installing plumbing appurtenances within or adjacent to any structure; or
b. 
At least six (6) years of experience in installing, altering or repairing piping, fixtures, plumbing appurtenances, venting systems and public or private water supply systems. In lieu of experience, credit may be allowed for each year of successful completion of a bona fide trade school if the majority of courses taken by the applicant were primarily directed at education in the plumbing industry. No credit shall be granted for experience gained while doing work that is ordinarily incidental to the plumbing industry or for any experience gained illegally as determined by the Code Official; or
c. 
A graduate of any two (2) year bona fide trade school or technical college and has had four (4) years of practical experience. Both education and experience shall be in the plumbing trade.
2. 
A contractor must provide a security that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.220 of this Building Code.
3. 
A contractor must provide a certificate of insurance that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.230 of this Building Code.
C. 
No contractor shall perform plumbing work or hold itself out in any advertising medium or publication as being available to perform plumbing work unless licensed pursuant to this Section.[1]
[1]
Editor’s Note: Former Subsection (D) regarding licensing for contractors not meeting requirements in Subsection (B) above, which immediately followed and derived from Ord. No. 13-0459 §1, 12-10-2013, was repealed 4-30-2015 by §1 of Ord. No. 15-0244.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §8), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
The Code Official shall be and is hereby authorized to grant a license to any contractor, firm or corporation (hereinafter "contractor") found to be qualified to engage in the work of installing or altering any public or private sanitary sewer system. The license shall be issued in the name of the contractor and a responsible person shall be listed on the license. The license shall be valid for a period of three (3) years.
B. 
Requirements For Licensure.
1. 
The Code Official shall receive, record and preserve all applications from contractors made for a license to engage in the business of drainlaying. A contractor applying for an on-site sewer system installer license must demonstrate that at least one (1) employee is at least twenty-one (21) years of age and has passed the approved exam for a master drainlayer with a score of seventy percent (70%) or greater within the past six (6) years, possesses a registered installer's license from the Missouri Department of Health as an advanced on-site wastewater treatment system installer and satisfies one (1) of the following experience requirements:
a. 
At least five (5) years of experience in on-site sewer system installation under the personal direction of a licensed on-site sewer system installer or under laws and regulations requiring similar qualifications. No credit shall be granted any applicant for experience gained while doing work that is ordinarily incidental to the drainlaying industry or for any experience gained illegally as determined by the Code Official; or
b. 
A degree in civil or mechanical engineering from an accredited college or university, and three (3) years experience in design, installation and planning of private and public sanitary or storm sewer systems.
2. 
A contractor must provide security that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.220 of this Code.
3. 
A contractor must provide a certificate of insurance that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.230 of this Code.
C. 
No contractor shall perform on-site sewer system installation work or hold itself out in any advertising medium or publication as being available to perform on-site sewer system installation work unless licensed pursuant to this Section.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §9), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
The Code Official shall be and is hereby authorized to grant a license to any contractor, firm or corporation (hereinafter "contractor") found to be qualified to engage in the work of installing or altering any fire suppression system apparatus, equipment or components thereof used in the installation of a sprinkler system within any structure. The license shall be issued in the name of the contractor and a responsible person shall be listed on the license. The license shall be valid for a period of three (3) years.
B. 
Requirements For Licensure.
1. 
The Code Official shall receive, record and preserve all applications from contractors made for a license to engage in the business of sprinkler fitting. A contractor applying for a sprinkler fitter license must demonstrate that at least one (1) employee is at least twenty-one (21) years of age, has passed the approved exam for a sprinkler fitter with a score of seventy percent (70%) or greater within the past six (6) years and satisfies one (1) of the following experience requirements:
a. 
At least ten (10) years of training and/or experience as a sprinkler fitter under a Department of Labor approved apprenticeship program; or
b. 
At least five (5) years experience with a reputable, bona fide fire suppression sprinkler system contractor.
No credit shall be granted any applicant for experience gained while doing work which is ordinarily incidental to the sprinkler fitter industry or for any experience gained illegally as determined by the Code Official.
2. 
A contractor must provide a security that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.220 of this Code.
3. 
A contractor must provide a certificate of insurance that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.230 of this Code.
C. 
No contractor shall perform sprinkler-fitting work or hold itself out in any advertising medium or publication as being available to perform sprinkler-fitting work unless licensed pursuant to this Section.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §10), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
The Code Official shall be and is hereby authorized to grant a license to any contractor, firm or corporation (hereinafter "contractor") found to be qualified to engage in the work of installing or altering any lawn irrigation system adjacent to any structure. Lawn irrigation systems, when connected to potable water supply and protected by a reduced principle backflow preventer, shall be considered to be irrigation equipment and not subject to specific Plumbing Code requirements. The lawn irrigation system is considered to be all piping, components, sprinklers, valving, etc., not including the backflow device beyond the discharge side of the backflow prevention devices. The license shall be issued in the name of the contractor and a responsible person shall be listed on the license. The license shall be valid for a period of three (3) years.
B. 
Requirements For Licensure.
1. 
The Code Official shall receive, record and preserve all applications from contractors made for a license to engage in the business of lawn irrigation installation. A contractor applying for a lawn irrigation installation license must demonstrate that at least one (1) employee is at least twenty-one (21) years of age, has passed the approved exam for a lawn irrigation installer with a score of seventy percent (70%) or greater within the past six (6) years and satisfies the following experience requirement:
a. 
At least six (6) years of experience in the design and installation of lawn irrigation systems in which at least three (3) of which was in a supervisory capacity.
2. 
A contractor must provide a security that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.220 of this Building Code.
3. 
A contractor must provide a certificate of insurance that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.230 of this Building Code.
C. 
No contractor shall perform lawn irrigation installation work or hold itself out in any advertising medium or publication as being available to perform lawn irrigation installation work unless licensed pursuant to this Section.
[1]
Editor's Note: Former Section 500.110, Backflow Prevention Device Tester License, was repealed 11-16-2023 by Ord. No. 23-0465. Prior history includes: Ord. No. 11-0248.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §12), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 13-0459 §1, 12-10-2013; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
An "on-site soil evaluator" is an individual licensed by Jefferson County who has a minimum of fifteen (15) semester credit hours of soils course work, including a minimum of three (3) hours in the area of soil morphology and interpretations, and has a minimum of two (2) years of field experience. The Code Official shall be and is hereby authorized to grant a license to any contractor, firm or corporation (hereinafter "contractor") found to be qualified to engage in performing soils evaluations of any type for the purposes of providing data relative to the design, installation or repair of on-site wastewater treatment systems. The license shall be issued in the name of the on-site soil evaluator.
B. 
Requirements For Licensure.
1. 
The Code Official shall receive, record and preserve all applications made for a license to engage in the kind of business aforesaid. The minimum requirements for issuing a license are:
a. 
An applicant for a license must be registered with the State of Missouri under 19 CSR 20-3.080 and must maintain said registration in good standing in accordance with the applicable State regulations as they have been established and may from time to time be amended.
b. 
A contractor must provide a security that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.220 of this Building Code.
Upon determination by the Code Official that the on-site soil evaluator has provided data that does not accurately reflect the soil conditions of a site, the Code Official shall notify the license holder that its security may be claimed and the money placed with Jefferson County. The licensee shall have thirty (30) days to reach an agreement with the customer, design professional and installer to make the alterations required to produce a functioning system. Said arrangements shall include financial responsibility. Failure to make such arrangements may lead to the Jefferson County, Missouri, Council expending whatever portion of the security is necessary to bring the system into compliance.
c. 
A contractor must provide a certificate of insurance that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.230 of this Building Code.
C. 
No contractor shall perform soil evaluation work or hold itself out in any advertising medium or publication as being available to perform such work unless licensed pursuant to this Section.
D. 
The initial license shall expire on a date that is at least thirty (30) days after the expiration date of the applicant's registration with the State of Missouri (unless the license has been suspended, revoked or surrendered). The initial license fee shall be prorated to the number of months for which it is issued. A partial month shall count as a whole month. The license may be renewed at the expiration of the initial license period. The licensee must apply for renewal in accordance with Section 500.200. Renewed licenses shall be valid for thirty-six (36) months.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §13), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
The Code Official shall be and is hereby authorized to grant a license to any contractor, firm or corporation (hereinafter "contractor") found to be qualified to engage in the work of on-site sewer system design. The license shall be issued in the name of the contractor and a responsible person shall be listed on the license. The license shall be valid for a period of three (3) years.
B. 
Requirement For Licensure.
1. 
The Code Official shall receive, record and preserve all applications from contractors made for a license to engage in the business of on-site sewer system designing. A contractor must demonstrate that at least one (1) employee is an engineer licensed by the State of Missouri.
2. 
A contractor must provide a security that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.220 of this Building Code.
3. 
A contractor must provide a certificate of insurance that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.230 of this Building Code.
C. 
No contractor shall perform on-site sewer system design work or hold itself out in any advertising medium or publication as being available to perform such work unless licensed pursuant to this Section.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §14), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
The Code Official shall be and is hereby authorized to grant a license to any person, firm or corporation (hereinafter "contractor") found to be qualified to engage in the work of installing, erecting, or altering any electrical service or equipment and making service corrections on material, wiring, fixtures, machinery, and other apparatus to be used, or in use for the generation and utilization of electricity, the transmission of light, lighting (direct or indirect), heat, air conditioning or power in or on any building or premise in the unincorporated area of the County of Jefferson; or for installing, erecting or altering electrical apparatus for remote controls or systems that are pertinent to public health or safety; or grounding or bonding of any type, including static or cathode; and all raceways. This shall include, but not be limited to, all circuits or systems, such as fire alarms, security devices, card readers, and burglar alarms that interface with or control building systems or circuits, which are interrupted or completed by remote means, such as AC/DC, radio frequencies of any kind, radio frequency shielding, optical fiber cables and raceways, closed loop and programmed power distribution, photocells, or lasers or any work or part thereof, as specified in this Building Code. All equipment wiring in a device greater than twenty-four (24) volts shall be installed by a licensed electrical contractor. The license shall be issued in the name of the contractor and a responsible person shall be listed. The license shall be valid for a period of three (3) years.
B. 
Application For Licensure. The Code Official shall receive, record and preserve all applications from persons made for a license to engage in any kind of business aforesaid so long as such license is in effect. An applicant for a license must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age, be employed in the contracting business by only one (1) employer and satisfy one (1) of the following experience requirements:
1. 
An applicant for a license shall furnish written evidence that he or she is a graduate electrical engineer of an accredited college or university and has one (1) year practical electrical experience in the construction industry, or that he or she is a graduate of an electrical trade school and has at least four (4) years of practical experience on electrical work or that he or she has had at least one (1) year of practical experience in planning, laying out, supervising and installing wiring, apparatus, or equipment for electrical light, heat and power beyond the practical experience requirements for a journeyman's license; or
2. 
An applicant shall submit written evidence that he or she has had at least (6) years of previous practical experience in personally installing, altering or repairing electric wiring for electric light, heat or power. In lieu of previous practical experience, credit may be allowed for each year of successful completion of a recognized trade school if the majority of courses taken by the applicant were primarily directed at education in the electrical industry. No credit shall be granted any applicant for experience gained while doing work which is ordinarily incidental to or associated with the electrical industry or for any experience gained illegally as determined by the Code Official; or
3. 
An applicant shall be a graduate of any two (2) year trade school or technical college of recognized standing and, in addition, shall have had three (3) years of practical.
If a corporation or a business is registered under the Fictitious Name Act, Section 417.200, RSMo., the applicant must be a full-time employee of the corporation or business.
Each application shall bear the name of the individual applicant and be signed by the applicant.
C. 
Requirements For Licensure.
1. 
The Code Official shall receive, record and preserve all applications from contractors, firms, or corporations made for a license to engage in the business of electrical work. A contractor applying for an electrical license must demonstrate that at least one (1) employee has passed the approved exam for a master electrician with a score of seventy percent (70%) or greater within the past six (6) years.
2. 
A contractor must provide a security that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.220 of this Building Code.
3. 
A contractor must provide a certificate of insurance that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.230 of this Building Code.
D. 
No contractor shall perform electrical work or hold itself out in any advertising medium or publication as being available to perform such work unless licensed pursuant to this Section.
[1]
Editor's Note: Former Section 500.150, Elevator Electrical License, was repealed 11-16-2023 by Ord. No. 23-0465. Prior history includes: Ord. No. 11-0248.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §16), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
The Code Official shall be and is hereby authorized to grant a license to any person, firm or corporation (hereinafter "contractor") found to be qualified to engage in the business of installing, maintaining, erecting or altering low voltage limited energy communication equipment, which shall include the installing or repairing of burglar alarm systems and/or fire alarm systems. Public address systems, wired music and sound systems and associated amplifiers from the output shall be permitted to be installed or serviced by holders of a communications license. Other work permitted to be performed by a communications licensee shall include telephones, telephone outlets, data lines, burglar alarm outlets consisting of door contacts, window contacts, bell or horn, touch pads, card readers, motions detectors, infrared detectors, radio and television equipment, community antenna television and radio distribution systems, wiring for central vacuum cleaning systems and irrigation systems. The license shall be issued in the name of the contractor and shall be valid for a period of three (3) years.
B. 
Requirements For Licensure.
1. 
The Code Official shall receive, record and preserve all applications from contractors made for a license to engage in the business of communications/burglar and fire alarm work. A contractor applying for a communications contractor license must demonstrate that at least one (1) employee has passed the approved exam for communications/burglar and fire alarms with a score of seventy percent (70%) or greater within the past six (6) years.
2. 
A contractor must provide a security that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.220 of this Building Code.
3. 
A contractor must provide a certificate of insurance that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.230 of this Building Code.
C. 
No contractor shall perform communications work or hold itself out in any advertising medium or publication as being available to perform such work unless licensed pursuant to this Section.
[1]
Editor's Note: Former Section 500.170, Industrial Electrical License, was repealed 11-16-2023 by Ord. No. 23-0465. Prior history includes: Ord. No. 11-0248.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §18), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 12-0160 §1, 3-14-2012; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
Authority. The Code Official shall be and is hereby authorized to grant a license to any person, firm or corporation (hereafter "contractor") found to be qualified to engage in the work of installing or altering any HVAC system, HVAC duct system, commercial kitchens, sheet metal, tank installations, or process piping system, equipment or components thereof used in the installation of a mechanical system within any structure. The license shall be issued in the name of the contractor and a responsible person shall be listed on the license. The license shall be valid for a period of three (3) years.
B. 
Requirements For Licensure.
1. 
The Code Official shall receive, record and preserve all applications from contractors made for a license to engage in the business of mechanical installation. A contractor applying for a mechanical license must demonstrate that at least one (1) employee is at least twenty-one (21) years of age, and has passed the approved exam for a master mechanical license with a score of seventy percent (70%) or greater within the past six (6) years and satisfies one (1) of the following experience requirements:
a. 
A graduate of a mechanical trade school and has at least four (4) years of practical experience in mechanical work or has had at least one (1) year of practical experience in planning, laying out, supervising and installing mechanical appurtenances within or adjacent to any structure; or
b. 
At least six (6) years of experience in installing, altering or repairing mechanical systems. In lieu of experience, credit may be allowed for each year of successful completion of a bona fide trade school if the majority of courses taken by the applicant were primarily directed at education in the mechanical industry. No credit shall be granted for experience gained while doing work that is ordinarily incidental to the mechanical industry or for any experience gained illegally as determined by the Code Commission; or
c. 
A graduate of any two (2) year bona fide trade school or technical college and has had four (4) years of practical experience. Both education and experience shall be in the mechanical trade; or
d. 
A degree in mechanical engineering from an accredited college or university and two (2) years of experience in design, installation and planning of mechanical systems.
2. 
A contractor must provide a security that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.220 of this Building Code.
3. 
A contractor must provide a certificate of insurance that conforms to the conditions listed in Section 500.230 of this Building Code.
C. 
No contractor shall perform mechanical work or hold itself out in any advertising medium or publication as being available to perform mechanical work unless licensed pursuant to this Section.[1]
[1]
Editor’s Note: Former Subsection (D) regarding licensing for contractors not meeting requirements in Subsection (B) above, which immediately followed and derived from Ord. No. 13-0459 §1, 12-10-2013, was repealed 4-30-2015 by §1 of Ord. No. 15-0244.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §19), 8-9-2011]
A. 
A permit shall be permitted to be issued for an addition, construction, repair, modification or reconstruction of an electrical, plumbing, mechanical or drainlaying system on the premises of a detached single-family dwelling, including accessory structures, to the owner or to a member of the owner's immediate family residing with him under the following conditions:
1. 
The dwelling shall be designed and used solely for living purposes.
2. 
The dwelling shall be occupied by or vacant and intended for immediate occupancy by the owner and the owner's family and no other persons.
3. 
The permittee shall personally perform all required work.
4. 
Only one (1) permit may be open at any one (1) time by the owner or member of his/her immediate family.
B. 
This Section does not authorize a waiver or modification of any provision of this Building Code relating to the materials, design, installation, or practice of either electrical, plumbing or drainlaying work, or to the preparation and approval of construction documents, or to required fees for permits or inspections. A permit issued to a homeowner may be revoked by the Code Official if he determines that work under the permit is not being properly performed or that the application did not or no longer complies with this Section. Upon revocation, the property owner may be required by the Code Official to proceed immediately to procure a licensed contractor to correct or complete the work.
C. 
Prior to the issuance of a permit under this Section, the Code Official shall be permitted to require an affidavit or other reasonable proof that the request for a permit complies with the foregoing provisions and that the applicant has the necessary knowledge and ability to perform the proposed work. Single-family residential homeowners qualifying as able must pass a written test. The test shall be administered without charge. The property owner may take the homeowner's test twice, the second (2nd) test given three (3) days after the first (1st). If an applicant passes the homeowner examination as approved by the Code Commission, then it shall be presumed that the applicant has the necessary knowledge and ability to perform the proposed work. If the applicant fails to pass the homeowner examinations twice, he shall not be permitted to take the examination again for a period of one (1) year. To pass the homeowner examination, the applicant must obtain a score of seventy-five percent (75%) or greater. Any permit issued under this Section shall be valid for a period of one (1) year.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §20), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
In order to obtain any license, registration or certification required under this Code, a person must comply with the following:
1. 
New applicants shall:
a. 
Submit a completed application for examination form with the required application fee to the Code Enforcement Division. Submittal shall include a full-face color photograph.
b. 
Said form shall include all information and documentation necessary to verify that the applicant meets all the practical experience and training qualifications required by this Code for the appropriate license, registration or certification. Applicants may attach additional documentation as needed.
c. 
Upon receipt of an application for examination the Code Official shall conduct an investigation to verify that the information on the application is true and accurate and that all requirements and qualifications are met.
d. 
The Code Official shall notify the applicant of the approval or denial of said application. If the application is approved, the applicant becomes eligible to take the examination, if examination is required by this Code. If an application is denied, the applicant shall be informed of the reason for the denial. Any applicant whose application is denied shall have the right to request a hearing before the Code Commission. A request for hearing may not be filed more than thirty (30) days after the applicant is notified in writing of the denial of the application.
e. 
As soon as practicable after receipt of a timely request for hearing, the Code Official shall send written notice to the applicant of the time and place of the hearing, and such notice shall in every case be given at least ten (10) days before the hearing. As soon as practicable after the conclusion of the hearing, the Code Commission shall adopt a written decision, including findings of fact and conclusions of law, and give written notice of its decision to the applicant.
f. 
Applicants who pass the examination must submit an application for license with the required license fee, provide all information on the application form as required by this Code.
g. 
Applicants who fail the examination must wait ninety (90) days before retaking the examination. If an applicant fails the examination the second (2nd) time, the applicant must wait twelve (12) months before retaking the examination.
h. 
An applicant shall pay all appropriate examination, registration, certification and/or license fee(s) as required by this Code.
i. 
An applicant shall not have violated any provision of this Code nor had any license, registration or certificate previously issued pursuant to this Code either suspended or revoked within the six (6) month period immediately preceding the date of his/her application.
2. 
License renewal applicants shall:
a. 
Submit a completed application for license renewal that contains all information as required by this Code with the required renewal fee and evidence demonstrating that a security and certificate of insurance still complies with the conditions listed in Sections 500.220 and 500.230 of this Building Code.
b. 
A person applying for renewal of a license, registration or certification may file his/her application up to ninety (90) days but not less than thirty (30) days before the license, registration or certificate expires. A person applying for such renewal, prior to its expiration, shall file only an application form, surety bond (if required) and pay the fee(s) required under this Code.
c. 
A person who fails to comply with all of the above requirements for renewal of his/her license, registration or certificate prior to its expiration shall, in addition to complying with the requirements of this Subsection, pay a reinstatement fee of one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00) plus the licensing fee. A person who submits a renewal application over six (6) months after the license expiration shall be required to submit to re-examination (if examination is required) under the same terms and conditions imposed upon new applicants.
d. 
When electrical and plumbing licensing was first adopted, some licensees were granted limited licenses. For electrical licenses, this included B. — small general contractor home builder — under which the licensee can only do residential wiring for structures the licensee builds; C. — mobile home installations only — for which a miscellaneous electrical permit is issued; and D. — communication license — under which the licensee can only provide power to communication equipment for which a low voltage electrical permit is issued. For plumbing licenses, this included B. — plumbing for residential structures and C. — plumbing repair work for which a miscellaneous plumbing permit is issued. While new limited licenses are not authorized by this Code, holders of these limited licenses shall be allowed to renew their licenses, subject to satisfying all conditions of renewal.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §21), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
The Code Commission shall have the power to suspend or revoke any license, registration or certificate issued pursuant to this Code for cause. Although such actions may be based upon causes other than those enumerated, the following are declared to be adequate causes for suspension or revocation:
1. 
Said license, registration or certification was obtained by fraud or misrepresentation.
2. 
Failure or refusal to comply with the provisions of this Code.
3. 
Procurement of permits for individuals who are not in the contractor/permit holder's employ or for a company or individual which has not been registered by the contractor/permit holder as required by this Code.
4. 
Violation of any of the provisions of this Code.
5. 
Failure to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public by violating the expressed intent of this Code through irresponsibility, neglect or wrongful intent.
B. 
Except as set forth in Subsection (G) below, no license, registration or certification shall be suspended or revoked until the holder has been afforded an opportunity for a hearing before the Code Commission after notice of at least ten (10) days.
C. 
Notice shall be served either personally or by first class mail, postage prepaid, to the holder's address of record and shall state the date, time and place of hearing and set forth the charges against the holder.
D. 
A holder shall have the opportunity to present evidence and/or witnesses before the Code Commission in person or with counsel. A record of the hearing shall be made. As soon as practicable after the conclusion of the hearing, the Code Commission shall adopt a written decision, including findings of fact and conclusions of law, and give written notice of its decision to the license holder or his/her attorney of record.
E. 
After the opportunity for a hearing and upon the Code Commission's finding that any of the acts or omissions described in Subsection (A) of this Section have been committed, then:
1. 
The license may be suspended for up to thirty (30) days and the licensee may be placed on probation for up to sixty (60) days if it is the licensee's first (1st) violation.
2. 
The license may be suspended for up to sixty (60) days and the licensee may be placed on probation for up to one hundred eighty (180) days if it is the licensee's second (2nd) or more violation in any two (2) year period.
3. 
The license may be suspended for up to one (1) year if a violation occurs during a suspension or probationary period.
F. 
A revoked license may be reinstated by the Code Official only upon application and examination, if required, and in the same manner as provided for new applicants.
G. 
The Code Official may temporarily suspend a license when a licensee is found by the Code Official to have multiple pending violations of the provisions of this Code and any of those pending violations create circumstances which may affect the health safety and welfare of the residents of Jefferson County. In instances where the Code Official temporarily suspends a license, the matter shall be placed on the next available Code Commission meeting agenda for hearing. In no instance shall a temporary suspension of a license by the Code Official exceed thirty (30) days.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §22), 8-9-2011]
A. 
Security Requirements.
1. 
The security shall be conditioned upon faithful compliance with this Building Code and shall be in the amount of twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000.00).
2. 
The security shall be placed on file with the Code Enforcement Division and shall be in one (1) of the following forms:
a. 
A bond payable to Jefferson County and issued by an institution authorized to issue such bonds in this State.
3. 
After the opportunity for a hearing and upon determination by the Code Commission that a contractor has failed to construct, modify or repair a system in compliance with this Building Code, the Code Official shall notify the contractor that its security may be claimed and the monies placed with Jefferson County, if the system is not in brought into compliance with this Building Code within thirty (30) days of the notice. The Jefferson County, Missouri, Council may expend whatever portion of the security is necessary to hire a licensed contractor to bring the system into compliance.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §24), 8-9-2011]
A. 
If the applicant is establishing or operating a business, the applicant must:
1. 
Have and maintain an established street addressed place of business with all necessary occupancy permits; and
2. 
Such applicant shall be obligated to have all service-type vehicles engaged in the business specified in their application visibly identified with the name, address and telephone number of the business.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §25), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 13-0459 §1, 12-10-2013; Ord. No. 21-0356, 7-29-2021]
A. 
The approval of a plan shall not be construed so as to relieve the contractor of complying with all the provisions of this Code.
1. 
Plan Review And Submittal.
Plan Review And Submittal
FEES
* Denotes cost upon application, deducted from total fee
Residential building and each revision submittal
$40.00*
Commercial building submittal
$200.00*
Sewage and each revision submittal
$40.00
Planning and zoning fee
$10.00
2. 
Fees. ("Each fee is rounded to the nearest dollar.")
a. 
Residential, Commercial, Manufactured Housing, Alternative Energy, Retaining And Sea Wall Fees.
(1) 
The cost for these permits is based upon the actual cost of construction (labor and materials) as set forth below.
3. 
Manufactured Housing Permit Fees. The cost for a manufactured housing permit is based upon the actual cost of construction (home, labor and materials) as set forth in Subsection (A)(8) below.
4. 
Alternative Energy Permit Fees For Solar, Wind, Hydroelectric Or Any Sustainable Energy Solution. The cost for an alternative energy permit is based upon the cost per watt or cost per kilowatt as set forth in Subsections (A)(5) and (9) below.
5. 
Cost Of Construction. Building permit fees are based on the actual cost of construction (labor and materials) as set forth below. Construction costs are figured using per square foot cost listed as follows. These costs represent the minimum cost of construction and may be revised based on a review of the actual plans submitted.
Building Construction Cost
Commercial construction
$235.00/sf
Residential (new construction)
$120.00/sf
Residential remodel
$165.00/sf
Residential finished basement
$65.00/sf
Retaining walls
$23.00/sf
Utility buildings
$38.00/sf
Alternative energy
$3.10 per watt/$3,100.00 per kilowatt
Processing fee
$25.00
Inspection or re-inspection
$50.00
6. 
Commercial And Industrial Building Permit Fees.
Cost of Construction
Fees
$1.00 - $10,000.00
$650.00
$10,001.00 - $20,000.00
$885.00
$20,001.00 - $30,000.00
$1,120.00
$30,001.00 - $40,000.00
$1,355 .00
$40,001.00 - $50,000.00
$1,590.00
$50,001.00 - $60,000.00
$1,825.00
$60,001.00 - $70,000.00
$2,060.00
$70,001.00 - $80,000.00
$2,295.00
$80,001.00 - $90,000.00
$2,530.00
$90,001.00 - $100,000.00
$2,765.00
$100,001.00 - $200,000.00
$3,020.00
$200,001.00 - $300,000.00
$3,275.00
$300,001.00 - $400,000.00
$3,530.00
$400,001.00 - $500,000.00
$3,785.00
$500,001.00 - $600,000.00
$4,040.00
$600,001.00 - $700,000.00
$4,295.00
$700,001.00 - $800,000.00
$4,550.00
$800,001.00 - $900,000.00
$4,805.00
$900,001.00 - $1,000,000.00
$5,060.00
$1,000,001.00 - $1,250,000.00
$5,450.00
$1,250,001.00 - $1,500,000.00
$5,840.00
$1,500,001.00 - $1,750,000.00
$6,230.00
$1,750,001.00 - $2,000,000.00
$6,620.00
$2,000,001.00 - $2,250,000.00
$7,010.00
$2,250,001.00 - $2,500,000.00
$7,400.00
$2,500,001.00 - $2,750,000.00
$7,790.00
$2,750,001.00 - $3,000,000.00
$8,180.00
$3,000,001.00 - $3,250,000.00
$8,570.00
$3,250,001.00 - $3,500,000.00
$8,960.00
$3,500,001.00 - $3,750,000.00
$9,350.00
$3,750,001.00 - $4,000,000.00
$9,740.00
$4,000,001.00 - $4,250,000.00
$10,130.00
$4,250,001.00 - $4,500,000.00
$10,520.00
$4,500,001.00 - $4,750,000.00
$10,910.00
$4,750,001.00 - $5,000,000.00
$11,300.00
Over 5 million dollars
Cost of construction x .230%
7. 
Residential Building Permit Fees.
Cost of Construction
Fees
$1.00 - $2,000.00
$200.00
$2,001.00 - $5,000.00
$300.00
$5,001.00 - $10,000.00
$480.00
$10,001.00 - $20,000.00
$660.00
$20,001.00 - $40,000.00
$780.00
$40,001.00 - $60,000.00
$950.00
$60,001.00 - $80,000.00
$1,100.00
$80,001.00 - $100,000.00
$1,225.00
$100,001.00 - $120,000.00
$1,325.00
$120,001.00 - $140,000.00
$1,375.00
$140,001.00 - $160,000.00
$1,425.00
$160,001.00 - $180,000.00
$1,475.00
$180,001.00 - $200,000.00
$1,525.00
$200,001.00 - $220,000.00
$1,575.00
$220,001.00 - $240,000.00
$1,605.00
$240,001.00 - $260,000.00
$1,635.00
$260,001.00 - $280,000.00
$1,665.00
$280,001.00 - $300,000.00
$1,695.00
$300,001.00 - $320,000.00
$1,725.00
$320,001.00 - $340,000.00
$1,755.00
$340,001.00 - $360,000.00
$1,785.00
$360,001.00 - $380,000.00
$1,810.00
$380,001.00 - $400,000.00
$1,835.00
$400,001.00 - $420,000.00
$1,860.00
$420,001.00 - $440,000.00
$1,885.00
$440,001.00 - $460,000.00
$1,910.00
$460,001.00 - $480,000.00
$1,935.00
$480,001.00 - $500,000.00
$1,960.00
$500,001.00 - $525,000.00
$1,985.00
$525,001.00 - $550,000.00
$2,015.00
$550,001.00 - $575,000.00
$2,045.00
$575,001.00 - $600,000.00
$2,075.00
$600,001.00 - $625,000.00
$2,105.00
$625,001.00 - $650,000.00
$2,135.00
$650,001.00 - $675,000.00
$2,165.00
$675,001.00 - $700,000.00
$2,195.00
$700,001.00 - $725,000.00
$2,225.00
$725,001.00 - $750,000.00
$2,255.00
$750,001.00 - $775,000.00
$2,285.00
$775,001.00 - $800,000.00
$2,315.00
$800,001.00 - $825,000.00
$2,390.00
$825,001.00 - $850,000.00
$2,515.00
$850,001.00 - $875,000.00
$2,565.00
$875,001.00 - $900,000.00
$2,615.00
$900,001.00 - $925,000.00
$2,665.00
$925,001.00 - $950,000.00
$2,715.00
$950,001.00 - $1,000,000.00
$2,770.00
$1,000,001.00 - $1,100,000.00
$2,825.00
$1,100,001.00 - $1,200,000.00
$2,900.00
$1,200,001.00 - $1,300,000.00
$2,975.00
$1,300,001.00 - $1,400,000.00
$3,050.00
$1,400,001.00 - $1,500,000.00
$3,125.00
$1,500,001.00 - $1,600,000.00
$3,200.00
$1,600,001.00 - $1,700,000.00
$3,275.00
$1,700,001.00 - $1,800,000.00
$3,350.00
$1,800,001.00 - $1,900,000.00
$3,425.00
$1,900,001.00 - $2,000,000.00
$3,500.00
Over 2 million dollars
Cost of construction x .18%
8. 
Manufactured/Modular Housing. (Homes that are inspected by HUD)
Cost of Construction
Fees
$1.00 - $10,000.00
$413.00
$10,001.00 - $20,000.00
$435.00
$20,001.00 - $30,000.00
$455.00
$30,001.00 - $40,000.00
$473.00
$40,001.00 - $50,000.00
$482.00
$50,001.00 - $60,000.00
$512.00
$60,001.00 - $70,000.00
$540.00
$70,001.00 - $80,000.00
$555.00
$80,001.00 - $90,000.00
$578.00
$90,001.00 - $100,000.00
$608.00
$100,001.00 - $125,000.00
$653.00
$125,001.00 - $150,000.00
$743.00
$150,001.00 - $175,000.00
$764.00
$175,001.00 - $200,000.00
$788.00
$200,001.00 - $225,000.00
$808.00
$225,001.00 - $250,000.00
$855.00
Over $250,001.00
Cost of construction x .35%
9. 
Alternative Energy.
Cost of Construction
Fees
$1.00 - $10,000.00
$465.00
$10,001.00 - $20,000.00
$470.00
$20,001.00 - $30,000.00
$495.00
$30,001.00 - $40,000.00
$512.00
$40,001.00 - $50,000.00
$535.00
$50,001.00 - $60,000.00
$558.00
$60,001.00 - $70,000.00
$574.00
$70,001.00 - $80,000.00
$600.00
$80,001.00 - $90,000.00
$621.00
$90,001.00 - $100,000.00
$640.00
$100,001.00 - $125,000.00
$700.00
$125,001.00 - $150,000.00
$751.00
$150,001.00 - $175,000.00
$770.00
$175,001.00 - $200,000.00
$780.00
$200,001.00 - $225,000.00
$798.00
$225,001.00 - $250,000.00
$825.00
$251,000.00 - $275,000.00
$838.00
$275,001.00 - $300,000.00
$855.00
$300,001.00 - $325,000.00
$877.00
$325,001.00 - $350,000.00
$892.00
$350,001.00 - $375,000.00
$900.00
$375,001.00 - $400,000.00
$920.00
$400,001.00 - $425,000.00
$935.00
$425,001.00 - $450,000.00
$946.00
$450,001.00 - $475,000.00
$949.00
$475,001.00 - $500,000.00
$998.00
Over $500,001.00
Cost of construction x .21%
10. 
Retaining Walls And Sea Walls.
Cost of Construction
Fees
$1.00 - $5,000.00
$510.00
$5,001.00 - $10,000.00
$562.00
$10,001.00 - $20,000.00
$690.00
$20,001.00 - $40,000.00
$750.00
$40,001.00 - $60,000.00
$800.00
$60,001.00 - $80,000.00
$840.00
$80,001.00 - $100,000.00
$891.00
$100,001.00 - $120,000.00
$946.00
$120,001.00 - $140,000.00
$975.00
$140,001.00 - $160,000.00
$1,005.00
$160,001.00 - $180,000.00
$1,037.00
$180,001.00 - $200,000.00
$1,064.00
$200,001.00 - $220,000.00
$1,092.00
$220,001.00 - $240,000.00
$1,150.00
$240,001.00 and up
Cost of construction x .48%
11. 
On-Site Sewage System.
On-Site Sewage System
Fees
New on-site sewage system
$295.00
Septic field preparation for imported soil
(If required for system)
$50.00
Septic field repair or replace
(Design/plans required)
$195.00
Tank replacement
$155.00
12. 
Decks.
Cost of Construction
Fees
$1.00 - $2,000.00
$225.00
$2,001.00 - $5,000.00
$325.00
$5,001.00 - $10,000.00
$480.00
$10,001.00 - $15,000.00
$560.00
$15,001.00 - $20,000.00
$630.00
$20,001.00 - $30,000.00
$680.00
$30,001.00 - $40,000.00
$735.00
Over $40,001.00
Cost of construction x 1.95%
13. 
Swimming Pools.
Cost of Construction
Fees
$0 - $1,000.00
$125.00
$1,001.00 - $3,000.00
$185.00
$3,001.00 - $5,000.00
$220.00
$5,001.00 - $7,500.00
$275.00
$7,501.00 - $15,000.00
$300.00
$15,001.00 - $20,000.00
$315.00
$20,001.00 - $30,000.00
$330.00
$30,001.00 - $40,000.00
$340.00
$40,001.00 - $50,000.00
$350.00
$50,001.00 - $60 000.00
$375.00
$60,001.00 - $70,000.00
$400.00
$70,001.00 - $80,000.00
$425.00
$80,001.00 - $90,000.00
$450.00
$90,001.00 - $100 000.00
$475.00
$100,001.00 +
Cost of construction x .010%
14. 
Miscellaneous Inspections/Permits.
Miscellaneous Inspections/Permits
Fees
* Permits that do not require plan review
Residential
Inspection or re-inspection fee
$50.00
Temp power pole
$50.00
Residential Electrical Panel
Up to 200 amp panel
$115.00
201 to 400 amp panel
$121.00
401 to 600 amp panel
$127.00
over 600 amp panel
$136.00
Residential Electrical Meter Base
100 to 200 meter base
$53.00
200 to 400 meter base
$57.00
400 to 600 meter base
$65.00
Low voltage
$115.00
Miscellaneous Residential Electric
$125.00
Plumbing
$125.00
Mechanical
Furnace: gas or electric
$60.00 per unit
Air conditioner
$60.00 per unit
Sheet metal/misc. work
$120.00
Commercial
Inspection or re-inspection fee
$50.00
Temp power pole
$50.00
Commercial Electrical Panel
Up to 200 amp panel
$165.00
201 to 400 amp panel
$188.00
401 to 600 amp panel
$205.00
600 amp and up panel
$218.00
Commercial Electrical Meter Base
100 to 200 meter base
$67.00
200 to 400 meter base
$78.00
400 to 600 meter base
$84.00
Commercial Low Voltage
$155.00
Miscellaneous Commercial Electric
$160.00
Commercial Plumbing
$160.00
Commercial Mechanical
$180.00
Demolition
$185.00
Floodplain Development
$75.00
First Time Home Buyers
$100.00
Ramps ADA (residential)
$0/no charge
Ramps ADA (commercial)
$75.00
Limited Use Permits
Tents - events, fireworks or concessions
Event and firework tents to 250 square feet
$125.00
Event and firework tents 251 square feet or greater
$0.50/sq ft
15. 
Signs.
Signs
Fees
Building sign
$425.00
Monument or pole sign
$530.00
Billboard
$600.00
Planning and zoning sign fee
$150.00
16. 
License Fees.
License
Fees
Plumbing
$150.00
Electrical
$150.00
Electrical communication
$150.00
Mechanical
$150.00
Sprinkler fitter
$150.00
Lawn irrigation installer
$150.00
On-site sewer system installer
$150.00
On-site sewer system designer
$150.00
On-site soil evaluator
$100.00
On-site system testing or evaluator
$100.00
Application fee for license, registration or certification
$30.00
Extension of license, registration or certification
$30.00
Renewal fee for inactive license (3-year period)
$50.00
Reinstatement of expired license registration or certification. Application must then be made for a new license
$150.00
Renewal fee for license, registration or certification
$30.00
17. 
Board Of Appeals Processing Fee.
Board of appeals processing
Fees
Board of Appeals processing fee
$80.00
Plus for each property owner notified
$2.00/notified
18. 
Blasting Fees. See Article IV, Section 5603.11.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §26), 8-9-2011]
A. 
The Code Official may authorize the refunding of fees as follows:
1. 
The full amount of any fee paid that was erroneously paid or collected.
2. 
When no work has been done, not more than fifty percent (50%) may be refunded.
3. 
When an application or a permit for which a plan review fee has been paid is withdrawn or canceled before any plan review effort has been expended, not more than fifty percent (50%) may be refunded.
4. 
The Code Official shall not authorize the refunding of any fee paid, except upon written application filed by the original permittee not later than one hundred eighty (180) days after the date of the fee payment.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §27), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
Connection Of Service Utilities. No person shall make connections from a utility, source of energy, fuel or power to any building or system that is regulated by this Building Code for which a permit is required, until approved by the Code Official.
B. 
Temporary Connection. The Code Official may authorize the temporary connection of the building or system to the utility source of energy, fuel or power. No power pole or electrical system shall be installed unless there is an open building permit for a structure on the property.
C. 
Permanent Electric Service. "Permanent electric service" is when the electrical meter base and meter are installed on the structure and connected to permanent electricity. Permanent electric service will be permitted at the construction site if the building or other habitable structure is secured. A building or other habitable structure is secured when ready access to electrical equipment by unauthorized personnel is not permitted or is otherwise prevented, at the sole discretion of the Code Official. Roofing must be installed and complete. Exterior windows and doors must be installed and all exterior wall covering and claddings must be complete.
D. 
Authority To Disconnect Service Utilities. The Code Official may authorize disconnection of utility service to the building, structure or system regulated by this Building Code and the codes referenced in cases where it is necessary to eliminate a hazardous or insanitary condition, a dangerous building, an unsafe structure, or a condition that poses an immediate danger to safety, health and welfare of life or property. These conditions shall include but not be limited to instances when work has commenced without a permit, when a building or structure is occupied and a permit has expired, or, when a building or structure is occupied and no final inspection has occurred. The Code Official shall notify the serving utility, and wherever possible the owner and occupant of the building, structure or service system of the decision to disconnect, prior to taking such action. If not notified prior to disconnecting, the owner or occupant of the building, structure or service system shall be notified in writing as soon as practical thereafter.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §28), 8-9-2011]
Application For Appeal. Any person aggrieved by any decision, ruling or order of the Code Official may appeal to the Code Commission for administrative and licensing issues and to the Board of Appeals for appeals of interpretation of the adopted building codes. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this Code or the rules legally adopted thereunder has been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this Code do not fully apply, or an equally good or better form of construction is proposed. The application shall be filed on a form obtained from the Code Official.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §29), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 13-0459 §1, 12-10-2013; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
Membership Of Board. The Board of Building Appeals shall consist of the current serving members of the Code Commission. Members shall serve terms concurrent with their terms as appointed members of the Code Commission. At such time as a member's term on the Code Commission expires, the member is removed, or the member resigns from the Code Commission, that member shall be simultaneously ineligible to serve on the Board of Building Appeals.
1. 
Compensation Of Members. Compensation of members shall be determined by an ordinance of the County Council.
2. 
Disqualification Of Member. A member shall not hear an appeal in which that member has any personal, professional or financial interest.
B. 
Notice Of Meeting. The Board shall meet upon notice in accordance with the Missouri Sunshine Law.
C. 
Open Hearing. All hearings before the Board shall be open to the public. The appellant, the appellant's representative, the Code Official and any person whose interests are affected shall be given an opportunity to be heard.
1. 
Procedure. The Board shall adopt and make available to the public, through the Secretary, procedures under which a hearing will be conducted. The procedures shall not require compliance with strict rules of evidence, but shall mandate that only relevant information be received.
D. 
Postponed Hearing. When a quorum of members is not present to hear an appeal, either the appellant or the appellant's representative shall have the right to request a postponement of the hearing.
E. 
Board Decision. The Board shall affirm or reverse the decision of the Code Official by a concurring vote of a majority of the members.
1. 
Written Decision. The decision of the Board shall be in writing. Copies shall be furnished to the appellant and to the Code Official.
2. 
Administration. The Code Official shall take immediate action in accordance with the decision of the Board.
F. 
Court Review. Appeals from actions of the Board shall be to the Circuit Court having jurisdiction, as provided for and established in Section 536.100, RSMo.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §30), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 17-0431, 9-28-2017; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
Unlawful Acts. It shall be unlawful for any person to erect, construct, alter, extend, repair, move, remove, demolish or occupy any building, structure, equipment or system regulated by this Building Code, or cause same to be done, in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this Building Code.
B. 
Notice Of Violation. The Code Official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for the erection, construction, alteration, extension, repair, moving, removal, demolition or occupancy of a building violation of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this Building Code. The order shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.
C. 
Work Commencing Before Permit Issuance. Any person who commences any work on a building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, sewage or plumbing system before obtaining the necessary permits shall be subject to one hundred percent (100%) of the usual fee in addition to the required permit fee, with the exception of earthwork, stakeouts, and other necessary planning procedures. In addition, the Code Official shall have the authority to disconnect service utilities in accordance with Section 500.270(D) of this Code.
D. 
Abatement Of Violation. If the notice of violation is not complied with, the Code Official may institute appropriate action to prevent unlawful construction or to restrain, correct or abate a violation, or to prevent illegal occupancy of a building, structure or premises, or to stop an illegal act, conduct, business or utilization of equipment on or about any premises. This action shall include the authority to disconnect service utilities in accordance with Section 500.270(D) of this Code.
E. 
Violation Penalties. Any person or contractor who violates a provision of this Building Code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building, structure or system in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the Code Official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this Building Code, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or by imprisonment not exceeding one (1) year, or both such fine and imprisonment. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense. The Jefferson County Municipal Prosecutor shall, at the request of the Code Commission or the Code Official, institute appropriate proceedings in the Jefferson County Municipal Court for correction of cases of non-compliance with or violation of the provisions of the Jefferson County Building Code.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §31), 8-9-2011]
A. 
Authority. The Code Official is authorized to issue a stop work order for work regulated by this Building Code, which is being done contrary to the provisions of this Building Code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner.
B. 
Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, or to the owner's agent, or to the person, contractor doing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The notice shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume. Where an emergency exists, the Code Official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
C. 
Unlawful Continuance. No person or contractor shall continue any work in or about the structure, premises or system after having been served with a stop work order, except the work that is directed to be performed to remove a violation or unsafe condition.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §32), 8-9-2011; Ord. No. 23-0465, 11-16-2023]
A. 
All buildings, structures, premises or equipment that have any or all of the following defects shall be deemed "dangerous buildings":
1. 
The building, structure, premise or equipment is in a condition that poses an immediate danger to either:
a. 
The lives or safety of persons, whether occupants or otherwise, or
b. 
Other property.
2. 
The building, structure, premise or equipment is a fire hazard for any reason, including, without limitation, obsolescence, dilapidation, deterioration, damage, lack of sufficient fire- resisting qualities, or faulty electrical wiring, gas connections or heating apparatus.
3. 
The building, structure, or premise lacks safe or adequate facilities for means of egress in case of fire or panic.
4. 
The building, structure or premise has any one (1) or more of the following conditions:
a. 
Improperly distributed loads upon the floors or roof;
b. 
Overloaded floors or roofs; or
c. 
Insufficient strength to be reasonably safe for actual or intended use.
5. 
Any portion of the building, structure, premise or equipment has been so damaged by any cause that the building, structure, premise or equipment is likely to fail or collapse, or become detached or dislodged and thereby injure persons or damage property.
6. 
Any interior or exterior portion, member, appurtenance, ornamentation or other component of the building or structure is likely to fall or collapse, or become detached or dislodged and thereby injure persons or damage property.
7. 
Any portion of the building, structure, or premise has racked, warped, buckled or settled to such an extent that walls or other structural portions have insufficient resistance to fire, earthquake, wind, flood or similar perils.
8. 
Part or all of the building, structure, premise or equipment is in danger of collapsing as a result of any cause, including, without limitation, any one (1) or more of the following causes:
a. 
Dilapidation, deterioration or decay;
b. 
Faulty construction;
c. 
Removal, movement or instability of any portion of the ground necessary to support such building, structure or equipment; or
d. 
Deterioration, decay or inadequacy of foundation.
9. 
The building, structure, or premise has exterior walls or other vertical structural members that list, lean or buckle to such an extent that a plumb line passing through the center of gravity would fall outside the middle one-third (1/3) of the base.
10. 
The building, structure, premise or equipment or any portion thereof is, for any reason, unsafe for actual or intended use.
11. 
The building, structure or premise, exclusive of the foundation, has either:
a. 
Thirty-three percent (33%) or more damage or deterioration of supporting member or members; or
b. 
Fifty percent (50%) or more damage or deterioration of non-supporting members, enclosing or outside walls or coverings.
12. 
The building, structure, premise or equipment has been so damaged by any cause, or has become so dilapidated, deteriorated or decayed as to attract and result in harm to children, notwithstanding that the building, structure or premise is not an "attractive nuisance" as that term is defined by Statute or decisional law; or is likely to become a harbor for vagrants, criminals or trespassers, rodents, feral cats or wild/uncontrolled animals.
13. 
The building, structure, premise or equipment has been constructed, exists or is being maintained in violation of any provision of this Building Code, or of any law of the County pertaining to building, structure or equipment safety.
14. 
The building, structure or premise has in any non-supporting part or portions less than fifty percent (50%) or in any supporting part member or portion less than sixty-six percent (66%) of the strength, fire-resisting qualities, or weather-resisting qualities required by the Code for newly constructed buildings of like area, height and occupancy in the same location.
15. 
The building or structure is used or intended to be used for dwelling purposes and is likely to injure or effect health, safety or welfare of persons who occupy or may occupy said building, structure or premise by reason of any one (1) or more of the following conditions:
a. 
Inadequate maintenance;
b. 
Dilapidation, deterioration or decay;
c. 
Damage;
d. 
Faulty construction or arrangement;
e. 
Inadequate light, ventilation or sanitation facilities; or
f. 
Absence of the utilities essential to safe living.
16. 
The building, structure, premise or equipment is in such condition as to constitute a "public nuisance" as that term is defined by Statute or common law.
17. 
The building, structure or premise is vacant for a period in excess of six (6) months and if because of the condition of the building, structure, premise or equipment:
a. 
It is unsafe or insanitary; or
b. 
It endangers property or the health, safety or welfare of persons.
18. 
The building, structure, premise, or equipment has been used for the illegal manufacturing, producing, preparing, or packaging of methamphetamine in any form.
B. 
All dangerous buildings, structures, premises or equipment are hereby declared to be public nuisances, and shall be repaired, maintained, vacated or demolished as provided in this Building Code.
C. 
The following standards shall be followed by the Code Official and the Municipal Court in ordering repair, vacation or demolition:
1. 
If the dangerous building can reasonably be repaired so that it will no longer exist in violation of this Building Code, it shall be ordered repaired.
2. 
If the dangerous building is in such condition as to make it dangerous to the health, morals, safety or general welfare of its occupants, it shall be ordered to be vacated.
3. 
In any case where a dangerous building is partially destroyed by deterioration, decay or damage and cannot be restored or repaired so that it will no longer exist in violation of this Building Code, or if the owner or other persons having an interest in it are unwilling to restore or repair it, it shall be demolished. In all cases where a dangerous building is a fire hazard existing or erected in violation of the terms of this Building Code or any Statute of the State, it shall be demolished. The determination of whether a building or structure cannot be restored or repaired shall rest with the Code Official.
D. 
The Code Official or his/her representative shall:
1. 
Inspect any building, structure, premise or equipment about which complaints are filed by any person to the effect that the building, structure, premise or equipment is or may be existing in violation of this Building Code.
2. 
Serve notice of the declaration of nuisance as determined by the provisions of this Building Code to the owner, occupant, lessee, mortgagee, agent, and all other persons having an interest in the building, structure, premise or equipment as shown by the land record of the Recorder of Deeds for Jefferson County. Such notice shall be served either personally or by certified mail, return receipt requested, and by posting such notice on the premises. Such notice shall state that:
a. 
The owner must vacate, vacate and recondition, or vacate and remove such building in accordance with the terms of the notice or may have it reconditioned in accordance with the notice and this Building Code;
b. 
The occupant or lessee must vacate such building or may have it reconditioned in accordance with the notice and remain in possession; and
c. 
The mortgagee, agent, or other persons having an interest in such building as shown by the land records of the Recorder of Deeds of the Jefferson County may, at his own risk, repair, vacate, or demolish or have such work or act done.
d. 
The parties receiving the notice shall have ten (10) calendar days to appeal the declaration of nuisance to the Jefferson County, Missouri, Municipal Court. In the event that no timely appeal is filed, the declaration shall become final and the Code Official shall proceed with abating the nuisance pursuant to Subsection (G) below.
Any person notified under this Subsection to repair, vacate and repair, or vacate and demolish any building shall be given reasonable time not to exceed ten (10) days to commence the action required by the notice. The notice may include a reasonable time in which the required action shall be completed. If, in the judgment of the Code Official or his representative, it is determined to be necessary to extend the time to do or have done the work or act required by the notice provided herein, the Code Official shall specify the extension date in writing, and serve an additional notice of the date to which the extension is made.
If service cannot be had by the methods set forth above, a notice shall be inserted in a newspaper then doing the County printing, notifying the owner of the dangerous building. The notice shall state that the owner is responsible for the repair or demolition of the dangerous building within ten (10) days after the publication of the notice.
3. 
Report to the Jefferson County, Missouri, Municipal Court regarding any appeals timely filed pursuant to Subsection (E) below.
4. 
Appear at all appeal hearings conducted by the Jefferson County, Missouri, Municipal Court and testify as to the condition of dangerous buildings.
5. 
Place a notice on all dangerous buildings substantially reading as follows:
This structure has been found to be a dangerous building by the Code Official. This notice is to remain on this building until it is reconditioned, vacated, or removed in accordance with the notice that has been given to the owner, occupant, lessee, mortgagee, or agent of this structure or building, and all other persons having an interest in said building as shown by the land records of the Recorder of Deeds of Jefferson County. It is unlawful to remove this notice until such notice is complied with.
E. 
Right To Appeal Code Official's Declaration Of Nuisance.
1. 
Any party receiving the notice required by Subsection (D)(2) above shall have the right to appeal the Code Official's declaration to the Jefferson County, Missouri, Municipal Court. Said appeal shall be filed within ten (10) calendar days from the date of the notice. Appeals filed later than ten (10) calendar days after the date of the notice shall not be considered timely and shall be dismissed. Appeals shall be filed in the office of the Code Enforcement Division and shall be filed on forms provided by the Code Enforcement Division. In the event that an appeal is timely filed, the Jefferson County, Missouri, Municipal Judge sitting as an Administrative Hearing Officer shall conduct an appeal hearing regarding the matter as set forth in Subsection (F) below. In the event that no timely appeal is filed, the declaration shall become final and the Code Official shall proceed with abating the nuisance pursuant to Subsection (G) below.
F. 
The Jefferson County, Missouri, Municipal Court Judge sitting as an Administrative Hearing Officer shall:
1. 
Upon receipt of a notice from the Code Official, that an appeal has been timely filed, the Jefferson County, Missouri, Municipal Court Judge sitting as an Administrative Hearing Officer shall call and have a full and adequate appeal hearing upon the matter, giving at least fifteen (15) days' written notice to the owner, occupant, mortgagee, lessee, agent and all other persons having an interest in the dangerous building as shown by the land records of the Recorder of Deeds of Jefferson County to appear before it on the date specified in the notice to show cause why the building, structure, premises or equipment reported to be a dangerous building should not be reconditioned, vacated and reconditioned, or vacated and removed in accordance with the statement of particulars set forth in notice of the Code Official. Any party may be represented by counsel, and all parties shall have an opportunity to be heard. Each party shall have the right to call, subpoena and examine witnesses on the party's behalf and to cross-examine opposing witnesses. Appeals heard by the Jefferson County, Missouri, Municipal Court Judge sitting as an Administrative Hearing Officer shall be conducted as contested cases pursuant to Chapter 536, RSMo.
2. 
After the appeal, if the evidence supports a finding that the building, structure, premise or equipment is a nuisance or detrimental to the health, safety or welfare of the residents of the County, the Jefferson County, Missouri, Municipal Court Judge sitting as an Administrative Hearing Officer shall issue an order making specific findings of fact, based upon competent and substantial evidence, that shows the building, structure, premise or equipment to be a nuisance and detrimental to the health, safety or welfare of the residents of the County, and ordering the building, structure, premise or equipment to be removed or reconditioned pursuant to Subsection (G) below. If the evidence does not support a finding that the building, structure, premise or equipment is a nuisance or detrimental to the health, safety or welfare of the residents of the County, no order shall be issued.
G. 
Abatement By The Code Official.
1. 
If the owner, occupant, mortgagee, or lessee fails to comply with the order or extension thereof within the time specified, the Code Official shall cause the building, structure, premise or equipment to be reconditioned, vacated and reconditioned, or vacated and removed as the facts may warrant; and the Code Official shall certify the charge for the recondition, vacation or removal to the County Clerk who shall cause the certified cost to be included in a special tax bill or added to the annual real estate tax bill, at the County Collector's option, for the property and the certified cost shall be collected by the County Collector in the same manner and procedure for collecting real estate taxes. If the certified cost is not paid, the tax bill shall be considered delinquent, and the collection of the delinquent bill shall be governed by the laws governing delinquent and back taxes. The tax bill, from the date of issuance, shall be deemed a personal debt against the property owner and shall also be a lien on the property until paid.
2. 
If the owner complies with the order or extension thereof within the time specified, the Code Official may cause a special tax bill for costs incurred by the County against the property to be prepared and collected by the County Collector. The tax bill, from the date of issuance, shall be deemed a personal debt against the owner and shall also be a lien on the property until paid.
3. 
If there are proceeds of any insurance policy based upon a covered claim payment made for damage or loss to a building or other structure caused by or arising out of any fire, explosion, or other casualty loss, and if the covered claim payment is in excess of fifty percent (50%) of the face value of the policy covering a building or other structure, premise or equipment, then the following procedure shall apply:
a. 
The insurer shall withhold from the covered claim payment, twenty-five percent (25%) of the covered claim payment, and shall pay that amount to the County to deposit into an interest-bearing account. Any named mortgagee on the insurance policy shall maintain priority over any obligation under this Section. If a special tax bill or assessment is issued by the County for the expenses of demolition of the building or structure as a dangerous building, the monies held by the County shall be applied toward payment of special tax bill or assessment. If there is any excess, it shall be paid by the County to the insured or as the terms of the policy, including any endorsements thereto, provide.
b. 
The County shall release the proceeds and any interest that has accrued on the proceeds received to the insured or, as the terms of the policy and endorsements thereto provide, within thirty (30) days after receipt of the insurance monies, unless the County has instituted legal proceedings under the provisions of Subsections (D) and (E). If the County has proceeded under the provisions of Subsections (D) and (E), all monies in excess of that necessary to comply with the provisions of Subsections (D) and (E) for the removal of the building or structure, less salvage value, shall be paid to the insured.
c. 
The County may certify that, in lieu of payment of all or part of the covered claim payment under this Section, it has obtained satisfactory proof that the insured has or will remove debris and repair, rebuilt or otherwise make the premises safe and secure. In this event the County shall issue a certificate within thirty (30) days after receipt of proof to permit covered claim payment to the insured without deduction. It shall be the obligation of the insured or other person making claim to provide the insurance company with the written certificate provided for in this Subsection.
d. 
No provision of this Section shall be construed to make the County a party to any insurance contract and the insurer is not liable to any party for any amount in excess of the proceeds otherwise payable under its insurance policy.
H. 
Where it reasonably appears there is an immediate danger to the health, safety or welfare of any person, the Code Official may take emergency measures to vacate and recondition or remove a dangerous building or structure. Cost incurred in the performance of emergency work shall be paid by the County. The County Counselor may institute appropriate action against the owner of the premises where the dangerous building or structure is or was located for the recovery of such costs.
I. 
No officer, agent or employee of the County shall render himself personally liable for any damage that may accrue to persons or property as a result of any act required or permitted in the discharge of his duties under this Article. Any suit brought against any officer, agent or employee of the County as a result of any act required or permitted in the discharge of his duties under this Building Code shall be defended by the County Counselor or special counsel until the final determination of the proceedings therein.
J. 
Property Held By The County Delinquent Tax Trustee.
1. 
The County may, at its option, abate any dangerous building or structure that exists on property titled in the name of the County delinquent tax trustee ("trustee property"). If the County elects to abate a dangerous building or structure located on trustee property, notice to the delinquent tax trustee is not required. Abatement of the dangerous building or structure shall proceed in the same manner as is set forth in Subsection (G) above. The costs of abatement shall be paid at the time of sale of the trustee property, unless said costs are specifically waived or compromised by the Jefferson County, Missouri, Council.
K. 
Interested parties may appeal from the determination of the Jefferson County, Missouri, Municipal Court Judge sitting as an Administrative Hearing Officer to the Circuit Court having jurisdiction, as provided for and established in Section 536.100, RSMo.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §33), 8-9-2011]
A. 
Purpose. Pursuant to the Jefferson County, Missouri Building Codes, the following standards, requirements and protocols are established for the cleanup of illegal laboratories used to manufacture methamphetamine which property owners are required to meet.
B. 
Applicability. The requirements of this Section apply when the owner of property that has been posted as an unsafe structure or as a dangerous building receives notification from the Code Official of Jefferson County, Missouri that chemicals, equipment, or supplies indicative of a drug laboratory were located at the property, or when a drug laboratory is otherwise discovered, and the owner of the property where the drug laboratory was located has received notice.
C. 
Definitions. As used in this Section, the following terms shall have these prescribed meanings:
AGENT OF THE OWNER
A current employee or representative of the owner of record who was in the employ of that owner at the time the property was determined to be an illegal drug manufacturing site; or is a current employee or representative of any new owner and who was a representative.
BUILDING
A structure which has the capacity to contain humans, animals, or property.
CHEMICAL STORAGE AREA
Any area where chemicals used in the manufacture of methamphetamine are stored or have come to be located.
CODE OFFICIAL
The Director of the Jefferson County, Missouri Department of County Services and Code Enforcement or his designee.
CONTAMINANT
A chemical residue that may present an immediate or long-term threat to human health and the environment.
CONTAMINATION OR CONTAMINATED
The presence of chemical residues which may present an immediate or long-term threat to human health or the environment.
CONTRACTOR
One (1) or more qualified individuals or commercial entities hired to perform work in accordance with the requirements of this protocol.
COOKING AREA
Any area where methamphetamine manufacturing is occurring or has occurred.
DANGEROUS BUILDING
A building, a structure or premises that have the defects contained in Section 500.320 of the Jefferson County, Missouri Building Code.
DECONTAMINATION
The process of reducing the level of contamination to the lowest practical level using currently available methods. At a minimum, decontamination must reduce contamination of specified substances below the concentrations allowed by this protocol.
DEPARTMENT
The Jefferson County, Missouri Department of County Services and Code Enforcement.
DISPOSAL
Handling, transportation and ultimate disposition of materials removed from contaminated properties.
DOCUMENTATION
Preserving a record of an observation through writings, drawings, photographs, or other appropriate means.
FUNCTIONAL SPACE
A space where the spread of contamination may be expected to occur relatively homogeneously, compared to other functional spaces. The "functional space" may be a single room or a group of rooms designated by an inspector who, based on professional judgment, considers the space to be separate from adjoining areas with respect to contaminant migration. Typical examples of functional spaces include a crawl space, an attic, and the space between dropped ceiling and the floor or roof deck above.
MEDIA
The physical material onto which sample substrate is collected. Media includes gauze, glass fiber filters, etc.
METHAMPHETAMINE
Dextro-methamphetamine, levo-methamphetamine, and unidentified isomers of the same, any racemic mixture of dextro/levo methamphetamine, or any mixture of unidentified isomers of methamphetamine. The term includes derivatives, conjugates, oxides and reduced forms of the basic structure associated with the formation of methamphetamine. For the purposes of this protocol, this term includes amphetamine, ephedrine and pseudoephedrine.
PERSON
Any individual, public or private corporation, partnership, or association.
PROPERTY
Anything that may be the subject of ownership or possession, including, but not limited to, land, buildings, structures, vehicles and personal belongings.
PROPERTY OWNER
The purposes of real property, the person holding fee title to real property. "Property owner" also means the person holding title to a manufactured home. With respect to personal property, the term means the person who lawfully owns such property.
REMOVAL
The taking out or stripping of material or surfaces to eliminate the potential for exposure to contaminants on or in the material or surfaces.
SUBSTRATE
The material being collected. Substrates may include soils, water, painted surfaces, carpet or carpet debris, unidentified powders, dust, etc.
UNSAFE STRUCTURE
Any structure in violation of the Jefferson County, Missouri Building Code the use of which constitutes a hazard to safety, health or public welfare as defined therein.
VACUUM SAMPLE
A non-airborne dust sample collected from a known surface area of a porous surface or material using standard micro-vacuum sampling techniques.
WASTE DISPOSAL AREA
Any area where chemicals used or generated in the manufacture of methamphetamine are disposed or have come to be located.
WIPE SAMPLE
A surface sample collected by wiping a sample media on the surface being sampled.
D. 
Assessment. When law enforcement personnel discover property where methamphetamine has been produced, or where the equipment and chemicals to produce methamphetamine are present in sufficient quantities to warrant enforcement action, they will take samples using a methamphetamine field test kit. The field test used shall be approved by the Code Official and shall measure the presence of methamphetamine residue on surfaces at a level that is at least as high as the level established in Subsection (F) below. This assessment shall be performed by personnel who the Sheriff has determined are appropriately trained and the assessment shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
1. 
Assessment of the number and type of structures present on the property where methamphetamine may have been produced.
2. 
Identification of structural features that may indicate separate functional spaces, such as attics, false ceilings and crawl spaces, basements, closets and cabinets.
3. 
Identification of the manufacturing methods based on observations, reports from law enforcement personnel and knowledge of manufacturing methods.
4. 
Identification of possible areas of contamination based on visual observation, reports from law enforcement personnel, proximity to chemical storage areas, waste disposal areas, or cooking areas, signs of contaminations such as staining, etching fire damage, outdoor areas of dead vegetation or based on the professional judgment of the person collecting the samples.
5. 
Identification of adjacent units and common areas to determine the likelihood that contamination has spread or may have been tracked.
6. 
Identification of common ventilation systems with adjacent units or common areas.
On the basis of the analysis of these areas and the judgment of the person collecting the data, a sampling plan will be formulated to determine the areas with the greatest probability of containing the highest possible concentrations of contaminants. Samples will be taken with techniques that are appropriate for the surface being sampled using media and testing kits designed to detect the presence of methamphetamine, the results of which are determined at the time the samples are collected.
If the field test reveals the presence of methamphetamine at levels in excess of the levels established herein, the structure shall be considered unsafe for human habitation and it will be posted as an unsafe structure by the Jefferson County Code Enforcement Division personnel. A structure or unit that is posted as unsafe shall not be occupied until the Code Official orders that status removed.
E. 
Procedures For Assessment, Sampling And Testing.
1. 
While posting of the structure constitutes notice, the Code Official shall also attempt to contact the owner of record of the affected property, or the owner's agent, by providing personal service. If the owner or agent cannot be contacted personally, a letter will be sent by certified mail with return receipt requested and by regular mail. Whether the certified mail is collected or the regular mail is returned to the Code Official as undeliverable, the County shall proceed on the basis of the posted notice.
2. 
Notice shall inform the owner to contact the Code Enforcement Division to establish a schedule for decontaminating the structure. If the owner does not contact the County within the time specified in the notice, the Code Official may request AmerenUE to disconnect the electric service to ensure the structure is not re-occupied until decontamination is performed.
3. 
If the owner contacts the County within the time specified in the notice, the owner may request permission to have the property retested. If the owner chooses to retest the property, the owner must employ the services of a company that the Code Official shall determine is qualified to perform sampling and to analyze the samples. If the owner chooses to hire a company to collect new samples, a qualified inspector for the County must be present when the samples are taken, and the owner shall pay an inspection fee of forty dollars ($40.00), payment of which must be made prior to removal of the unsafe structure declaration. The results of the analysis shall be provided to the Code Official.
[Ord. No. 13-0459 §1, 12-10-2013]
4. 
Testing shall be performed in accordance with the appropriate Sections of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Voluntary Guidelines for Methamphetamine Laboratory Cleanup, August, 2009.
F. 
Contamination Levels. A structure will be considered unsafe and non-compliant if it is found to contain more than the following levels of any of these chemicals:
1. 
Methamphetamine in a concentration equal to or greater than 1.5 µgram/100 cm2.
2. 
If it is determined that the phenyl-2-propanone (P2P) method of methamphetamine manufacturing was used, surface levels for lead in excess of 20 µg/ft2and vapor samples for Mercury in excess of 50 ng/m.
G. 
Decontamination.
1. 
If testing reveals the presence of contamination in levels that exceed the standards set forth in this Section, the owner is required to hire a qualified contractor to decontaminate the structure and shall advise the Code Official of the schedule for decontamination. At a minimum, to be qualified to perform decontamination, contractors and all personnel must have completed the forty (40) hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) training [Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 29 CFR 1910] and a clandestine drug lab assessment and decontamination course that is provided by a sponsor acceptable to the Code Official.
2. 
The schedule for the work and evidence that the contractor has met the minimum training requirement must be submitted for approval to the Code Official within the time specified in the notice. Approval will be based solely on the timeliness of the schedule and the qualifications of the contractor. Approval or rejection of the schedule will be provided within two (2) business days of submission. If rejected, the owner will be informed of specific reasons for the rejection and will be required to amend the schedule or the proposed contractor. Decontamination shall be performed in accordance with the appropriate Sections of the United States Environmental Protection Agency Voluntary Guidelines for Methamphetamine Laboratory Cleanup (August 2009).
[Ord. No. 13-0459 §1, 12-10-2013]
3. 
If the owner of property determined to be in violation of the minimum allowable levels of chemicals as provided in this protocol fails to voluntarily mitigate the violation, the Code Official may serve a notice of violation and proceed in accordance with Section 500.300 Violations of the Building Code or may declare the structure a dangerous building and proceed in accordance with Section 500.320 Dangerous Buildings of the Building Code. The Code Official may request AmerenUE to disconnect electrical service until the decontamination is complete.
H. 
Post-Decontamination Sampling. When the owner arranges for decontamination, following the completion of the work, the owner will notify the County that work is complete and schedule a time for post-remediation testing. The structure must be tested in the presence of a qualified inspector for the County. The owner must provide test results as evidence that the property is compliant with this regulation. Should the results of the post-remediation sampling show the presence of methamphetamine in excess of the standards established by this Chapter, further steps shall be taken to decontaminate the structure and additional testing shall be done in the presence of a qualified inspector for the County. Each time an inspector for the County is present, the owner shall pay an inspection fee of forty dollars ($40.00). The post-remediation sampling and testing must be performed by a company the Code Official has determined to be qualified and done in accordance with the appropriate Sections of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Voluntary Guidelines for Methamphetamine Laboratory Cleanup, August, 2009.
I. 
Final Action. After the property has been decontaminated and the Code Official is in possession of evidence that the pertinent chemical levels are below the levels established by this regulation, the structure will be considered safe and suitable for human habitation. If electric service has been disconnected, the Code Official will notify AmerenUE that the unsafe condition has been mitigated and service can be restored. The property owner shall be responsible for any re-connection fees.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §34), 8-9-2011]
A. 
Unsafe Structure. The Code Official is authorized to declare as unsafe, any building, structure, premise, or equipment regulated by this Code, which constitutes a health hazard, unsanitary condition or is otherwise dangerous to human life including, but not limited to, buildings, structures, premises, or equipment that have been used for the illegal manufacturing, producing, preparing, or packaging of methamphetamine in any form. Any use, in any form, of such building, structure, premise or equipment regulated by this Code is hereby declared an unsafe use and constitutes a hazard to safety, health or public welfare by reason of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, obsolescence, disaster, damage, abandonment, or the illegal manufacturing, producing, preparing, or packaging of methamphetamine in any form. Any such unsafe use is hereby declared a public nuisance and shall be abated by repair, remediation, rehabilitation, demolition or removal, or abated in accordance with Section 500.320 of this Code when the building, structure, premise, or equipment has been used for the illegal manufacturing, producing, preparing, or packaging of methamphetamine in any form. Any such declaration of an unsafe structure will immediately render the building, structure, premise, or equipment unsafe for human habitation.
B. 
Issuance. The declaration of an unsafe building, structure, premise, or equipment shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner's agent, the person(s) occupying the unsafe building, structure, premise, or equipment or posted on the subject property. Delivery of the declaration by any of these means shall constitute proper notice and service. The notice shall state the reason for the declaration and the conditions under which the unsafe building, structure, premise, or equipment may be used or reoccupied.
C. 
Unlawful Occupancy. No person shall continue occupying the building, structure, premise, or equipment after the building, structure, premise, or equipment has been declared an unsafe structure.
D. 
Occupancy. The Code Official will authorize occupancy once the building, structure, premise, or equipment is in compliance with this Code.
E. 
Failure To Abate Unsafe Structure Declaration. If the conditions of the unsafe structure declaration have not been met or complied with, the Code Official may serve a notice of violation and proceed in compliance with Section 500.300 of the Building Code or may declare the structure a dangerous building and proceed in compliance with Section 500.320 of the Building Code. Abatement of buildings, structures, premises, or equipment posted as an unsafe structure due to the illegal manufacturing, producing, preparing, or packaging of methamphetamine in any form shall also meet the requirements of Section 500.320.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §35), 8-9-2011]
A. 
Required Inspections. After issuing a permit, the Code Official shall conduct inspections from time to time during and upon completion of the work for which a permit has been issued. The Code Official shall maintain a record of all such examinations and inspections and of all violations of this Code.
B. 
Inspection Sequence And Approval. No work shall be done on any part of the structure beyond the point indicated in each successive inspection without first obtaining the written approval of the Code Official or his authorized representative. The permit holder shall be notified of any violations of this Code. Written approval shall be given only after an inspection has been made of each successive step in the construction and all discrepancies are corrected.
C. 
Duty To Request Final Inspection. Upon completion of the work described in the permit application, the permit holder shall request and obtain a final inspection before any occupancy of the structure. Failure of the permit holder to request and obtain a final inspection before occupancy will constitute a violation of this Code.
D. 
Inspection Card. An inspection card will be issued by the Code Enforcement Division when a building permit is approved. This card, along with the approved plans, must be retained on the job site until the final inspection has been approved. Calls for inspection must be made in advance as indicated on the card. The card must be posted in order to receive inspections and must be accessible to the inspector at the time of the inspection. Absence of inspection card may result in imposition of the charge for a re-inspection specified in the Jefferson County fee schedule. In the event the original inspection card has been lost, upon payment of the fee for an additional inspection, a replacement inspection card will be issued to the permittee.
E. 
Identification Requirements. For work that requires a license, the licensee performing the work under this Code shall write his/her name and license number on the appropriate line of the inspection card before starting work on the job. The inspection card shall have the written permit number.
F. 
Exposure Of Work. All new, altered, extended or replaced plumbing shall be left uncovered and unconcealed until it has been tested and approved. Where such work has been covered or concealed before it is tested and approved, the Code Official may require that it be exposed for testing and approval.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §36), 8-9-2011]
Permits may be transferred between licensees (not locations) with the written consent of the property owner and signature of the transferee.
[Ord. No. 11-0248 §1(Art. I §37), 8-9-2011]
A. 
Decisions of the Code Commission and Board of Building Appeals are subject to judicial review of Chapter 536, RSMo. Notice of hearing shall be provided to the party or parties, if known, by mail and shall provide the caption and number of the case and the time and place of hearing at least ten (10) days in advance of the hearing.
B. 
All hearings shall have all evidence on the record. Additionally, the following procedural protections shall be adhered to:
1. 
Each party shall have right to call witnesses and to introduce exhibits on any matter relevant to the issues.
2. 
All proceedings and hearings shall be recorded and preserved. A copy of the recording of such a proceeding shall be made available to any interested person upon the payment of a fee which shall in no case exceed the reasonable cost of preparation.
3. 
Records and documents which are to be considered in the case shall be offered in evidence so as to become part of the record, the same as all other evidence.
4. 
Official notice may be taken of all matters of which courts take judicial notice, and may also take official notice of technical or scientific facts, not judicially cognizable, within their competence, if they notify the parties of the facts of which they propose to take notice and give the parties reasonable opportunity to contest such facts.
5. 
Evidence to which an objection is sustained shall, at the request of the party seeking to introduce the same, or at the insistence of the Code Commission or Board of Building Appeals, nevertheless, be heard and preserved in the record, unless wholly irrelevant, repetitious, privileged, or unduly long.
6. 
Any evidence received without objection which has value shall be considered by the Code Commission or Board of Building Appeals along with all other evidence in the case.
7. 
Copies of writings, documents and records shall be submissible without proof that the originals cannot be produced if it shall appear, by testimony or otherwise, that the copy offered is a true copy of the original.
8. 
Any writing or record made as a memorandum, or record of an act, transaction, occurrence or event, shall be admissible as evidence of that act, transaction, occurrence or event, if made in the regular course of business.
9. 
Statistical examination results or studies or audits, compilations of figures or surveys may be admitted into evidence if probative and relevant.
[1]
Editor's Note: Former Section 500.380, Continuing Education, was repealed 11-16-2023 by Ord. No. 23-0465. Prior history includes: Ord. No. 11-0248.