St. Peters, MO Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Density Bonus Law (2026)

St. Peters channels density incentives through its Planned Urban Development ("PUD") zoning classification rather than a citywide density-bonus ordinance. Section 405.250(E)(1) of the Municipal Code caps the total incentive at a thirty percent (30%) increase in dwelling units above what the base zoning district would otherwise allow, and only the Board of Aldermen, not city staff or the Planning and Zoning Commission alone, may grant it, according to a schedule of design elements. The largest credit, ten percent (10%), is earned for each five percent (5%) of net development area devoted to improved usable open space, up to the same thirty percent (30%) ceiling on open space itself.

Three further categories each add five percent (5%): providing pedestrian and bicycle paths; tree and shrub screen planting beyond standard landscaping requirements; and creative building site designs that apply LEED practices recognized by the Green Building Certification Institute or Low Impact Design techniques to cut stormwater runoff and erosion. A final five percent (5%) covers recreational facilities, capped at three percent (3%) apiece for a swimming pool, a tennis court, and a community center or club building. Section 405.250(E)(2) requires the developer to document every amenity claimed for a bonus so the Planning and Zoning Commission and Board can verify it during the PUD application, which carries a non-refundable processing fee under Section 405.250(G)(2). A PUD must also cover at least one acre under Section 405.250(C)(1)(a) before any bonus calculation applies.