Welcome to the Commercial District

Establishing a Business

in the City of Black Jack

What is a commercial occupancy permit?

·         The commercial occupancy permit verifies that the proposed business is located within the proper zoning district and meets all structural, fire and health codes and is safe for occupancy. Contact the Black Jack Fire Marshal for fire inspection at  314-741-1000  or visit the web bjfpd@anet-stl.com

When is a commercial occupancy permit required?

·         Each time any part of commercial building changes tenants or owners, or anytime a new business is being proposed for a site, the new tenant or owner is required to apply in person at City Hall for a commercial occupancy permit in the Department of Public Works at City

How do you apply for a commercial occupancy permit?

·         The first step to obtaining a commercial occupancy permit would be to submit an application to the Department of Public Works and Development. You will need to know the number of square feet your business will occupy, the name of the business owner, number of parking spaces available to your business, name of the building owner, including address and phone number. This application must be accompanied with the appropriate fee. This is a one time fee so long as your business occupies the same address. The fee covers costs for inspection of the proposed business premises. Fees are $50; upon receiving your application, the Director of Public Works will verify whether or not the type and location of the proposed business is permitted under the City of Black Jack Zoning Code. If it is not a permitted use, you will be notified in writing. Certain businesses must go through special procedures to obtain zoning approval. (See information on conditional uses). However, if it is a permitted use, the Director of Public Works will forward your application to the Building Inspector for an inspection.

What will the inspection cover?

·         The inspector will check for adequacy of exits, fire protection equipment, fire resistance, sanitary facilities, property maintenance code compliance, parking facilities and landscaping in accordance with health and safety standards. A commercial occupancy inspection of a residence deals with the space being used, the bathroom which serves it and the general utilities. If the business meets all zoning, structural, fire and health standards, a commercial occupancy permit will be issued. You will then be notified by mail to pick up the commercial occupancy permit and pay for your business license at the City Clerks Office.  (See information on business licenses.)

NOTE: For further information of selling food you will need to call the St. Louis County Health Department North Sector, #21 Village Square, Hazelwood Missouri 63045 at 615-7471 or visit the web at www.co.st-louis.mo.us/doh/