Garage conversion rules in St. Louis, MO — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Converting a garage into livable space in St. Louis requires a Building Division permit, zoning review, and compliance with residential code.
Garage conversions are treated as either a finished ADU or as expanded living area of the primary dwelling. Either path requires a building permit with plans showing: minimum 7 ft ceiling height (7 ft 6 in for bedrooms in new work), egress window sized per IRC (minimum 5.7 sq ft net clear opening) in each bedroom, insulation meeting current energy code, separate electrical circuits and GFCI protection, HVAC tie-in or independent system, smoke and CO alarms. If used as a separate dwelling with kitchen, the ADU rules apply (size cap, owner occupancy, parking). Historic district properties need Cultural Resources Office sign-off on exterior changes (closing garage door opening, new windows). Removing the last off-street parking space triggers zoning review. Housing Conservation District occupancy permit is required if rented.
Unpermitted conversion: $100-$500 plus required retroactive permit or restoration. Cannot legally rent until permitted.
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See how St. Louis's garage conversions rules stack up against other locations.
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