Accessory Structures in Kirkwood, MO: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Kirkwood or are thinking about moving there, accessory structures are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Kirkwood has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of accessory structures, and some of them might surprise you.

Shed Rules

Sheds in Kirkwood are accessory structures regulated under Chapter 25, Article V (Accessory Uses and Structures). They must be set back at least five feet from all lot lines, stay at least 10 feet from the principal building, and the total of all accessory structures may not exceed 7% of lot area or 1,500 square feet, whichever is less; sheds larger than 120 square feet or taller than 12 feet are major accessory structures requiring Architectural Review Board approval.

Key details: Code Authority: Kirkwood Code Ch. 25, Art. V. Min. Setback: 5 ft from all lot lines (default). Distance from House: 10 ft minimum. Total Accessory Coverage: <=7% lot OR 1,500 sq ft (lesser). Small Shed Threshold: <=120 sq ft AND <=12 ft tall.

Building a shed without a required permit, encroaching into a required setback, exceeding the 7% / 1,500 square foot accessory coverage cap, placing a major shed without ARB approval, or installing a structure too close to the principal building is a zoning and building violation enforceable by Kirkwood Code Enforcement and the Building Division. Remedies include stop-work orders, mandatory removal or relocation of the structure, retroactive permitting, and fines under Chapter 1 of the Municipal Code.

ADU Rules

Kirkwood passed ADU-permitting zoning changes in 2021 under Chapter 25 (§25-45(b)). Minimum lot size is 15,000 sq ft. Detached ADUs must reflect the architectural style of the principal dwelling and meet principal building setback requirements. ADU accessory structures must not include cooking facilities, sleeping area, or bathing unless approved as an ADU.

Key details: ADU Code: Chapter 25, §25-45(b). Minimum Lot Size: 15,000 sq ft. Architectural Match: Must match principal dwelling style. Setbacks: Must meet principal building setback standards.

Unpermitted ADU: standard building code enforcement. May require demolition or legalization. Occupying unpermitted dwelling: code violation.

Garage Conversions

Converting a garage to living space in Kirkwood requires a building permit and zoning compliance. Must comply with 2015 ICC residential standards. Required off-street parking must be maintained. ADU rules apply if kitchen/sleeping area is added (§25-45(b)).

Key details: Permit: Building permit required — 314-822-5823. Code: 2015 ICC residential standards. Parking: Required spaces must be maintained. ADU Rules: Apply if kitchen/sleeping area added — §25-45(b).

Unpermitted conversion: building code enforcement. Must bring to code or restore. Safety violations: immediate correction.

The Bottom Line

Kirkwood's accessory structures rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Kirkwood is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Kirkwood can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.