Frequently Asked Questions

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1. What qualifies as an emergency for calls that are after hours?

Emergency calls after hours consist of animal bites, injured stray animals, loose livestock, wildlife in an occupied building, or any call where the well-being of a citizen, or an animal, is at risk.

2. What are your adoption fees?

Adoption Fees:
Dogs - $10
Cats - $5

Spay/Neuter Fees:
Dogs - Spay/neuter fee is based on sliding scale, depending on the animal's weight.
Cats - Spay $40 / Neuter $30

Registration tags are $5.

3. What are the redemption fees?

The redemption fees for dogs consist of a $10.00 impoundment fee, and a $8.00 per day board fee. If the animal isn’t currently registered at the time of impoundment then a spay/neuter deposit will be assessed. This fee is based on a sliding scale depending on the animals [for dogs only] weight.

The redemption fees for cats consist of a $10.00 impoundment fee, and a $8.00 per day board fee. If the animal isn’t currently spayed or neutered at the time of impoundment, there is an additional spay/neuter fee assessed.

4. What do I do if I've lost my pet?

If you have lost your pet it is important that you come to the Shelter to see if it has been impounded. Due to the owner’s description not matching the officer’s description, staff will not provide this information over the telephone. Stray animals are held 5 days, which must include 1 Saturday.

5. What do I do if I've found an animal?

If you have found an animal with a city registration tag, you may contact the shelter and the owner’s name will be provided. It is recommended that animals found without any form of identification be delivered to the shelter, or the citizen may board the animal and run a found ad in the local newspaper.

6. What are the license requirements for a pet?

All dogs and cats three (3) months of age or older are required to vaccinated for rabies by a veterinarian and registered with the City. The registration fee is; $5.00 for spay/neutered animals and $15.00 for unaltered animals. Registration tags may be obtained from any Veterinarian Clinic, City Hall finance department, or the Animal Shelter. Registration tags expire 1 year from the date of purchase, or when the rabies vaccination expires, whichever comes first.

7. Is there a ban on pit bulls or other breeds?

The City of St. Joseph does not ban the owning of any breed of dog. The City does have a vicious dog ordinance [Section 5.89} that addresses the aggressive behavior of any dog.

8. Do you offer spay/neuter assistance?

The Shelter does offer spay/neuter financial assistance to qualified pet owners.

9. Is there a leash law?

City Ordinance requires that dogs be kept secured to the owner’s property, or when off of the property on a leash not longer than 6 foot. If an animal is observed off the owner’s property Animal Control & Rescue may impound it.

10. What do I do about a cat nuisance?

Cats that are causing real estate or personal property damage may be trapped with the use of a live-box trap from Animal Control & Rescue. An Animal Control Officer must witness the damage and obtain a statement from the complainant, prior to the shelter loaning a trap. There is a $50.00 damage deposit required, upon returning the trap in the same condition it was when borrowed, the $50.00 deposit is refunded.

If the complainant knows who the owner of the cat(s) is, the owner may receive a summons for allowing their cat to cause a nuisance.

11. What can I do about a barking dog?

Upon receiving a barking dog complaint a letter is sent to the dog owner’s residence. The owner is given notice of the complaint and advised that if the problem isn’t resolved to the complainant’s satisfaction that they may be issued a summons to appear in Municipal Court. If the problem isn’t resolved and the complainant is willing to document the date and times the dog is barking [for approximately 7 days] and also willing to testify in court, the owner may be issued a summons.

12. My neighbor doesn't pick up his pet's waste and now it stinks, what can I do?

The City Code of Ordinances requires that animal waste be removed from a yard, kennel, pen or run every 48 hours. The waste should be stored in an airtight container to prevent the attraction of insects, and removed from the premises once a week.

If a nuisance exists due to the owner’s failure to remove the waste, or because of a large number of animals in a small enclosure, the complainant may sign a complaint against the animal owner. The owner may then be summons to appear in Municipal Court.

13. How do you handle animal bites?

All animals involved in bites to human beings are required by city ordinance and state law to confined for a ten (10) day observation period at either the Animal Shelter or an approved veterinarian clinic or boarding facility in the City. If the animal was shedding the rabies virus at the time of the bite, it will show signs of rabies within the ten (10) day period.

14. Is there a handling fee for unwanted animals?

For City residents there is a $10.00 handling fee for each unwanted animal surrendered to the Shelter by its owner. For residents living outside the City limits in Buchanan County, and non-residents of Buchanan County, there is a $40.00 handling fee.

15. Is there a handling fee for stray animals?

For City residents there is no fee for bringing stray animals to the Shelter. For residents living outside the City limits in Buchanan County, and non-residents of Buchanan County, there is a $40.00 handling fee, plus a $10.00 per day board fee for stray animals.

16. When do I need a breeders or litter permit?

If you own an intact dog or cat and allow that animal to breed you are required to obtain a breeders permit from the Animal Control & Rescue Shelter, prior to the welping of the puppies or kittens. The breeders permit cost $20.00. If you fail to obtain the breeders permit and are in possession of a litter of puppies or kittens you are then required to obtain a litter permit from the Animal Control & Rescue Shelter. The cost of the litter permit is $100.00.

17. Is it a crime to abandon an unwanted animal?

It is a violation of City Ordinance and State Law to abandon any animal. Conviction of this crime can result in a fine from $1.00 to $500.00, and a jail sentence from 1 day to 6 months.

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1. What is St. Joseph's current ad valorem tax rate?

The current city ad valorem tax rate is: $1.1398 per $100.00 of assessed valuation.

• General Fund (in the Public Safety Tax): $0.67
• Parks & Recreation Fund: $0.20
• Health Fund: $0.2198
• Museum Fund: 0.05
• Total: $1.1398

2. What is St. Joseph's total budget?

Read through the current fiscal year budget. View budgets

3. What is Ad Valorem?

A tax computed from the assessed valuation of land and improvements on real property.

4. What is St. Joseph's current Ad Valorem tax rate? Break down by funds.

The current City ad valorem tax rate is: $1.1395 per $100 of assessed valuation.

General Fund (inc Public Safety Tax): 67.00 cents
Parks & Recreation Fund: 20.00 cents
Health Fund: 21.95 cents
Museum Fund: 5.00 cents
Total: $1.1395

5. How much does the average citizen pay based on the above tax rate?

Buchanan County has set the assessed value of a residential property at 19% of its fair market value. The City’s tax levy is taken times this assessed valuation. So, for example: An individual who owns a home with an actual value of $100,000 would pay the following to the City: $100,000 x 19% = $ 19,000 assessed valuation. $19,000 divided by $100 = $ 190.00 x $1.1398 = $216.56 (City Real Estate Property Tax)

6. What is the total Sales Tax rate in St. Joseph?

8.7%. There are also some additional jurisdictions within the City of St. Joseph assessing sales taxes. For a breakdown, please see

Sales Tax Allocation table

7. What is the Operating Budget?

It is the plan for current expenditures and the proposed means of financing them. The annual operating budget is the primary means by which most of the financing, acquisition, spending, and service delivery activities of the City are controlled. The use of an annual operating budget is required by State law.

8. What is CIP?

The CIP or Capital Improvement Program is a 5-year financial plan matching the City's projected financial resources dedicated to capital spending with the City's highest priority capital needs.

9. How is the CIP developed?

The City maintains a separate five-year Capital Improvement Program categorized as follows:

- Individual Funds’ CIP projects (these projects include certain smaller Street projects, some Park improvements, Sewer improvements, basically any capital project paid for out of a specific fund’s dollars).
- CIP Sales Tax Projects (projects paid for out of the one-half cent capital improvements sales tax).

10. What revenue sources are used to finance CIP?

For the past several years, financing for most capital projects has been “pay-as-you-go”. In other words, capital projects are paid for out of the cash flow provided by the half-cent CIP Sales Tax and available monies from other fund balances.

Large Sewer CIP projects are financed by revenue bonds approved by a vote of the citizens as well as through bonds approved through development boards. The annual bond payments are included in the overall rates charged to customers.

Several years ago, improvements to the Parking Garages, Health Department, Parks Department facility, and Landfill facility were financed using PBA (Public Building Authority) issued bonds. Annual payments are authorized from the existing revenue streams of the funds in which the improvement occurred.

By State statute, the City is permitted, by vote of 2/3rds majority, to incur General Obligation (GO) debt in the amount not to exceed 20% of the assessed value of the City.

11. Why use General Obligation Bonds?

General Obligation (G.O.) Bonds are debt instruments much like a house mortgage, and generally run for a period of 20 years. The City identifies a major project (e.g. a fire station) or several similar projects (e.g. five road intersections) and determines that to complete the project(s) in a timely manner a debt issuance is needed. With all of the improvement needs in the community there are times the City might not want to wait until enough CIP Sales Tax funds had accumulated to be able to pay for the project. Or, projects might come up after all of the funds for the current CIP sales tax are “taken” for other projects as approved by the voters.

12. What are “funds” and why does the City have them?

The City receives revenues from many different sources. Some of them have restrictions on how they can be used. For example, money from the Federal government (called Community Development Block Grant, or CDBG, funds) must be used in low & moderate income areas, blighted areas, and or for other specified purposes. Monies received through the specially assessed parks maintenance property tax must be used maintain the City’s parks. The transportation sales tax approved by voters goes specifically to the Mass Transit Fund in order to support the City’s bus system.

In order to be sure that monies received are spent as legally required the City sets up different Funds (like separate bank accounts) to keep track of where the money comes from and how it is spent. This is verified every year during an audit by independent, outside auditors.

13. What is the General Fund?

This is the principal operating fund of the City and accounts for all financial transactions not accounted for in other funds. Most general fund revenues go to operate the City’s police and fire departments.

14. What is an Enterprise Fund?

A fund (also called a proprietary fund) established to account for operations that are financed and operated in a manner similar to private business enterprises - where the intent of the governing body is that the costs of providing goods or services to the general public on a continuing basis be financed or recovered primarily through user charges. The major enterprise funds in the City are the Sewer, Landfill, Aviation and Transit funds.

15. What is Capital Outlay?

An expenditure which results in the acquisition of or addition to fixed assets, and meets these criteria: has an anticipated useful life of more than one year; can be permanently identified as an individual unit of property; belongs to one of the following categories: Land, Buildings, Structures Improvements, Equipment; constitutes a tangible, permanent addition to the value of City assets; cost generally exceeds at least $5,000 (per unit); does not constitute repair or maintenance; and, is not readily susceptible to loss.

16. What is the City of St. Joseph's fiscal year?

A twelve-month period designated as the operating year for accounting and budgeting purposes in an organization. The City of St. Joseph has specified July 1 to June 30 as its fiscal year.

17. Where can I get a copy of City of St. Joseph budget?

Copies of the budget books are available for viewing in the City's public library branches, can be viewed in the City Clerk’s Office, or contact the Administration Services Department, or on the City's website by clicking here.

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1. What building codes have been adopted by the City of St. Joseph?

• 2018 International Building Code
• 2018 International Existing Building Code
• 2018 International Residential Code
• 2018 International Mechanical Code
• 2018 International Fuel Gas Code
• 2018 Uniform Plumbing Code (Table 403.1 of the International Plumbing Code may be used to calculate plumbing fixture count.
• 2018 International Fire Code
• 2017 National Electrical Code

2. What construction projects need building permits?

• New Buildings
• Manufactured Homes
• Additions
• Electrical Systems
• Renovations
• Plumbing Systems
• Demolition
• Prefabricated Structures
• Temporary Buildings
• HVAC Systems (heating, ventilating, air conditioning)
• Miscellaneous for residential (fireplace, pools, decks, fence, etc)
• Miscellaneous for commercial (parking, health, liquor licenses, etc.)

3. Why a building permit?

Building permits provide the means for Code Officials to protect us by reducing the potential hazards of unsafe construction and therefore ensuring the public health, safety and welfare.

The building permit process helps us understand what our local laws and ordinances require. Before any construction or remodeling work begins, application for a permit should be made to Building Development Services. Building permits provide the means for code officials to inspect construction to ensure that minimum standards are met and appropriate materials are used.

4. What are plan requirements?

All commercial projects 20,000 cubic feet and larger, all multi-family (three or more units) and must be prepared by an architect and or professional engineer registered with the State of Missouri must prepare drawings. Please submit to City of St. Joseph, Building Development Services Department Room 107, 1100 Frederick Ave. St. Joseph, MO 64501. If you have any questions you may call 816-271-5341, or fax 816-271-4676.

5. What's a footing and foundation permit?

A footing and foundation permit may be available, upon request, before a plan review has been completed. This permit will allow the applicant to begin the dirt work and to construct the foundation for the proposed building. This permit is given as a convenience to the applicant and is issued contingent upon approval of the final drawings for the building. It is understood that the applicant is proceeding at his/her own risk and that the City gives no guarantee that a building permit will be issued. A partial permit is valid for 30 days and work is not to proceed beyond the foundation under this permit. In order to receive a footing and foundation permit, the applicant must submit the following:

• site plan
• foundation plan
• approved storm water management plan
• grading plan
• 5 acres or more requires a Land Disturbance Permit to be filed with the DNR
• parking plan
• approved driveway access plans
• underground utilities

6. Do I need an occupational license?

You will be notified when all construction documents and plans have been approved. In order to obtain your building permit you must have the following:

1. Occupational License- obtained through the Customer Assistance Department, 1100 Frederick Ave., Room 106, 816-271-4751.
2. A copy of your Workmans Compensation Insurance. In addition to the Workmans Compensation Insurance all Master Electrician and Plumbers must carry a $2,000.00 bond. It will be necessary that they provide a copy of that bond and liability insurance to the Building Development Services Department at City Hall 1100 Frederick Ave Room 106, St. Joseph, MO 64501.

7. What about subcontractors?

The general contractor will be responsible for obtaining only his permit for the construction project. He cannot obtain the electrical, mechanical, plumbing and right of way permits. The General Contractor has the ultimate responsibility of the entire job and he is the one that knows every aspect of that job. Therefore, he will need to be prepared to have the required information for the electrical, plumbing, mechanical, building, right of way permits and a list of his subcontractors. A Master Electrician and Plumber, licensed by the City of St. Joseph, must perform all electrical and plumbing work. Upon request the Building Development Department can provide a list of licensed electrical and plumbing contractors.

All subcontractors must have a current Occupational License with the City of St. Joseph.

8. How are driveways and sidewalks handled?

Driveway and sidewalk work in city right-of-way must have a permit. The site plan must show the driveway/s and sidewalk/s to be constructed. Plans will be submitted to the Public Works Department for approval prior to issuance of a permit. Once the plans have been approved the permit can be obtained from Customer Services at City Hall, room 106. Customer Services can be reached at 816-271-4751.

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1. How do I become more involved in city government?

Citizens who are interested in becoming more involved in city government may volunteer to serve on one of the many citizen boards and commissions that work with City Council and the various departments.

2. How do I get on the Council's Agenda?

Citizens may address the Council at regular meetings on the issues listed on the Agenda. Regular Council meetings are every other Monday at 7:00 p.m. For items not on the Agenda, a citizen should contact the City Clerk’s Office the Wednesday prior to the meeting, to secure a place on the Agenda. Rules for City Council meetings are established in the Code of Ordinance and are governed by the sections on rules of order.

3. What does the City charter say about the City Clerk?

St. Joseph operates under a Council/Manager form of government first adopted when voters approved the City Charter on August 4, 1981. Under the City Charter, the Mayor and Council members must run for re-election every four years. The City Manager and City Clerk are the two city employees directly under the supervision of the City Council. The City Manager is the chief executive and administrative officer and is responsible for the administrative affairs of the City. The City Clerk is responsible for keeping a record of all Council actions; authenticating by signature all ordinances and resolutions; certification of the ballot to the County Clerk for elections; and other duties established by the City Council.

4. How do I contact a City Council member?

The City Clerk’s Office maintains a list of the Mayor and City Council members’ home addresses and telephone numbers. If you would like to find out which Council member represents the district in which you live, please call 816-271-4730. The City of St. Joseph complies fully with Missouri’s open meetings and open records laws.

5. How do I find out information about public meeting agendas?

For more information on public meeting agendas please contact us at 816-271-4730.

6. When are Council meetings held?

Every other Monday at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber at the City Hall, 1100 Frederick Avenue, St. Joseph, Missouri. The meetings are shown live on cable channel 19 and streamed live here.

7. Are there any rules when attending a Council meeting?

Please click here for a guide to City of St. Joseph Council Meetings.

8. What kind of City (government) is St. Joseph?

St. Joseph is a home rule (charter) city with a "Council-Manager" form of government.

9. When was the first Council meeting held?

The Trustees of the town of St. Joseph held its first meeting on May 8, 1845.

10. What council district do I live in, and who is my district Council member?

The district you live in is based on address. Please contact the City Clerk's office at 271-4730 or 271-4731. They will ask your address and look on the district map to determine your district and council member.

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1. What is a combined sewer overflow (CSO)?

In St. Joseph, like many older cities, sewer pipes carry both wastewater (used water and sewage that goes down the drain in homes and businesses) and stormwater (rain or snow that washes off streets and parking lots) to a sewage treatment plant. In many parts of St. Joseph, the mixed wastewater and stormwater flow together in a single pipe. This is called a Combined Sewer System.

During a heavy rain the pipes may get too full and start to overflow into the Missouri River. When this happens, it's called a Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO). This provides a "safety valve" that prevents back-ups of untreated wastewater into homes and businesses, flooding in city streets, or bursting underground pipes.

The Combined Sewer System was built as St. Joseph grew during the early 1970's, as an economical way to handle wastewater and stormwater. One advantage of this system is that most of the time, when rainfall is low to moderate, both the stormwater and wastewater go to the treatment plant.

2. Are CSOs a new problem?

No. When the Combined Sewer System was designed over thirty years ago, it was less expensive than building two entirely separate systems of pipes and tunnels to carry stormwater and wastewater. Before the sewage treatment plants were built, all sewage and stormwater was discharged into the nearest body of water.

The CSO locations were left in place when the present sewer system was updated to act as safety valves when the pipes get too full to handle the high volume of water during heavy rains. The advantage of a combined sewer system is that both stormwater and wastewater are treated most of the time. The disadvantage is that during heavy rains, untreated stormwater and wastewater may be discharged at CSO locations. In fact, there are far fewer overflows now than in the past due to construction projects to control the overflows.

3. What can I do to keep local water safe and clean?

Remember that what goes down drains may go into the Missouri River. We can all help keep the water clean by:

• Keeping paints, oils, and pesticides out of storm drains.


• Fixing leaks from vehicles.


• Planting a rain garden with native plants.

Taking cars to a commercial car wash where the water is often recycled before going to the treatment plant.
If you wash your own car:

• Wash it with a biodegradable soap over grass or gravel.


• Use a bucket and a hose nozzle to limit the amount of soap and water used.


• Wash only the outside of the car, not the engine.

4. How much rain does it take for a CSO discharge to occur?

It varies between CSO locations, depending on how the system has been designed and built. Some locations will have CSO discharges during a moderate summer storm, while other locations will only overflow during the worst storms.

5. Can CSOs be eliminated?

Yes, they can be eliminated, however, the cost is too much of a hardship.

One way to eliminate CSOs would be to add a separate system of pipes to drain stormwater directly to the rivers. Again, this would be very expensive and would also release untreated stormwater in all storms, which would add chemicals from surface runoff to the water bodies.

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1. Is any assistance available to make repairs to our home?

Yes. The community development division has several programs to assist homeowners. These programs are the Low Interest Loan Program/Deferred Payment Loan and the Emergency Assistance Program.

2. How do I qualify for these programs?

The applicant must meet the income guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which is adjusted yearly. The house must be the primary residence, and you must have lived in the home for at least six months. You also must provide documentation showing ownership of your house (recorded Warranty Deed or Deed of Trust); and have current copies of your 1040 and W-2 forms, and verification of benefits for the past 12 months.

3. What happens if I qualify?

If approved, your name will be placed on a waiting list. A rehabilitation manager will do an inspection of your home and document the repairs that need to be made. We will then advertise for bids, prepare the contracts, and monitor the work for the homeowner.

4. What are the interest rates?

Loans will be at an interest rate of 0% to 4% based upon the property owner’s ability to pay, not to exceed a 30-year term. A deferred payment loan may be offered to applicants 62 years of age or older and/or permanently disabled whose incomes do not permit the repayment of an amortizing loan. Mortgage of said property will be filed as security for the loan.

5. What is the Emergency Assistance Program?

Emergency assistance is provided to eligible property owners with spontaneous situations that would be considered life threatening, such as electrical hazards, structural failure, hazardous plumbing, etc. Emergency assistance for work required up to $5,000 will be in the form of a grant and/or loan. Emergency assistance for work over $5,000 will be in the form of a deferred payment loan for qualified applicants age 62 or older or permanently disabled, or a low interest loan (0-4%) with the interest rate based upon the property owner’s ability to pay not to exceed a 20-year term.

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1. How much do I owe for this year on personal property or real estate?

For information on personal property or real estate taxes, contact the Buchanan County Collector's office at 816-271-1402. That office is also responsible for tax assessments.

2. Where do I purchase a garage sale permit? How much do they cost? How many days can my garage sale be? How many garage sales may I have per year?

You purchase garage sale permits at City Hall, 1100 Frederick, Room 101A at a cost of $5.00. Garage sales can last no more than four consecutive days and can only be held four times per calendar year at the same location. For more information, please call Customer Assistance at 271-4751.
NOTE: You are only allowed one garage sale sign. It is to be displayed at the place of the sale only. They are prohibited from being displayed on utility poles, etc.

3. When and where did I get this parking ticket? Who do I call for information on it? Where do I pay this ticket?

For information regarding a parking ticket please call customer services at 271-4751. To pay for a parking ticket either mail it or bring it to Customer Services, 1100 Frederick Ave., Room 101A, St Joseph, MO 64501

4. Does this business have a business license? When is my license fee due? How do I figure my license fee?

License fees are due June 30th of the current year. For information on whether a business has a business license or on how to figure your license fee, call Customer Services at 816-271-4751. Again direct license fee payments to Customer Services, 1100 Frederick Ave., Room 106, St Joseph, MO 64501.

5. How much do I owe for this year on personal property or real estate? Why did you increase my assessments?

For both of these questions, please contact the Buchanan County Collector's office at 816-271-1402. They handle personal property and real estate taxes. They also handle the tax assessments.

6. Do I owe any taxes on my personal property or cars?

For tax years 1998 to current, please call the Buchanan County Collector's office at 816-271-1402. For tax years 1997 or prior, please call Customer Services at 816-271-4751.

7. What work was performed for the special assessment billing I've received?

For information regarding the specifics of the Special Assessment billing you've received, please contact the Property Maintenance Division at 816-271-5342.

8. Why do I need an alarm permit when I pay an alarm company to monitor my system?

This is a cost recovery mechanism for the Police Department's cost of excessive false alarms at a residence or business passed on directly to them.

9. What does my alarm fee give me?

You are allowed six free false alarms within a 12-month period before excess charges are assessed.

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1. How will I know if there is a weather-related emergency nearby?

Storm sirens will sound for citizens who are outdoors. We recommend a weather radio or the media for those who are indoors.

2. Where are the weather sirens located?

You can read information regarding weather sirens, what they are and where they're located, here.

3. What is the Emergency Operations Plan?

You can view a copy of the City's Emergency Operations Plan here.

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1. Where is the sewer line for my property?

The city has records of the main sewer lines for the entire city. We can locate the closest to your property. However, the city does not keep records of where your private sewer line crosses your property and connects to the city sewer. Residents can come to the engineering office to review the drawings and receive a copy of the area of interest.

2. Where is the right-of-way at my address/for my street/alley?

We have drawings that show the right-of-way for the City streets and alleys. These drawings are quarter sections and they show not the individual street addresses, but the Block and Lot numbers, so we may need a little more information to locate your house.

3. Where is the road located in the right-of-way?

Right-of-ways for roads are in general wider than the actual road. The street is usually located near the middle of the ROW shown, however for an exact location of the ROW you will need to hire a surveying company.

4. I'm on septic, how can I get connected to the City sewer?

Depending on the location of the closest main sewer line, it may as simple as hiring a plumber to make the connection. If you are too far from a main line and the sewer would need to be extended to your property, there is a program available through the City called a Neighborhood Improvement District (NID). It is likely that if you are on a septic system that many of your neighbors are as well and they may want to pursue a NID through the City with you. A NID is formed to show the City that your neighborhood would like a main sewer and then the City would meet with you and your neighbors to discuss the feasibility of extending the sewer. The costs of the sanitary sewer would be borne by the neighbors in the NID. The process is a bit more complex than this, please contact us for further details.

5. My road is mess, how come it is not being resurfaced and you've resurfaced this other road twice?

The City has a resurfacing program. The streets are rated according to their condition, type, use, and several other factors by the Street Dept., then the list is turned over to the Engineering Division who evaluates the money available that year with how many of the streets can be resurfaced. The streets at the top of the list are given priority as it is assumed that they are in the worst condition. There are times however, when a street has been given a rating in error and should have been on a resurfacing list sooner. If you feel that your street is in need of resurfacing, you may contact the Street Dept. and they will give you your street rating and when it is potentially scheduled for resurfacing. If that is too far in the future, you may request an inspection to possibly rerate your street.

6. I seem to have a hole/depression in my yard, can you tell me what it is from?

We would need to come out and examine the area, look into utility locations and then see if a cause can be determined and a solution found.

7. I am having a drainage/mud problem from my neighbor's/commercial business?

If the drainage/mud is coming from another private property, whether it is an individual or a commercial business, it is considered a civil problem and does not involve the City. The exception to this would be if the City has a construction project that has caused the drainage/mud problem which would then be resolved by the City.

8. The street is draining rain water onto my property, what can I do about that?

We will need to come out and investigate the sources of the drainage and see if a solution can be found.

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1. Can I prepare food in my home kitchen and sell it for extra money?

Not unless it is a totally separate area in your home that meets all the same requirements of a small café. Before doing anything, please call 816-271-4636 and speak with one of our food safety specialists.

2. Are all food service workers required to wear disposable gloves while handling food?

Yes, but this only applies to ready to eat foods.

3. Are artificial fingernails allowed by employees in a food service establishment?

No, under our food code this practice is not allowed, even if the person is wearing disposable gloves.

4. Does your department do any testing for mold?

No, there are no local companies that perform this testing at this time. However, check in the Kansas City area.

5. Are food service workers required to wear hair restraints?

Yes, it must be some type of physical restraint such as a ball cap, visor, or hair net, etc. and it must be worn to effectively restrain the hair.

6. What if my child tests positive for lead?

Should a child test positive for lead, there are things that can be done to limit their exposure to lead.

• Wash the child’s hands and face often, especially before snacks, meals and bedtime.


• Wash the child’s bed linens often to make sure they are clean.


• Wash toys when they become dusty or dirty.


• Place newspapers and magazines out of a child’s reach (there may be lead in the ink).


• Keep children away from painted surfaces, especially those that are peeling and chipping.


• Wipe down painted surfaces with a high phosphate detergent and wet-mop floors weekly.


• Seal off remodeling areas and keep children and pets away from this area.


• Prevent children from playing in dirt next to painted houses or buildings. Plant grass or shrubs in this area if possible.


• Remind family members to shower and change clothes before coming home if they work around lead-contaminated areas such as battery plants, automobile repair shops, craft shops where they are using stained glass, bait & tackle shops, etc. Wash their clothes separate from the rest of the family, especially the children’s clothes.


• Keep children from chewing or sucking on items unless you are certain they are non-toxic.

7. What roll does nutrition play in lowering a child’s blood lead level?

Caregivers can help a child resist the harmful effects of lead in the following ways:

• Make sure children eat a balanced diet with plenty of calcium, protein and iron.


• Avoid serving foods high in fat, junk food, soda pop and candy.


• Offer healthy snacks between meals since an empty stomach absorbs lead faster than one that is not empty.

8. Why is lead dangerous?

Lead is poisonous when swallowed or inhaled. In young children it can cause reduced intelligence and learning disabilities that last a lifetime.

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1. How can I become a firefighter in St. Joseph?

To learn how to become a firefighter in St. Joseph, contact Human Resources at 816-271-4670.

2. What programs are available from the Fire Department?

Home Inspection
This is a free informational inspection of your home to identify potential fire and safety hazards in your home. Findings are given directly to you and are confidential. You, as the homeowner, are responsible to hire professionals to make any repairs or replacements you can not do yourself. For further information please call Fire Prevention at 271-4623 or 271-4604.
Commercial Property Inspections
Code inspections to identify fire safety hazards in your occupancy are conducted yearly. You may call and schedule an inspection of your property through Fire Prevention at 271-4604 or 271-4623 or 271- 4627.
Fire Safety Education
We offer fire safety videos, pamphlets, workbooks and lectures to private and public organizations. You may call to schedule or request a program at 271-4604, 271-4623, 271-4627 or 271-4603 from 8 AM to 4:30 PM weekdays. Please give at least a two-week notice prior to the requested date and time.

3. When are the burning periods?

There are two periods - one in the Spring and one in the Fall. The dates are determined by a request from the Health Department to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The Missouri DNR then grants the request for a three-week period in the spring and in the fall. The Fire Department is only responsible for enforcing the open burning rules and regulations.

Open burning guidelines:

• Burning for yard waste of residential properties only


• Burning shall be allowed between 10:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.


• All fires must be in an upright cylindrical metal container with a volume equal to no more than 55 gallons.
• Containers must be located at least fifteen (15) feet away from any building. Only one burn container per residence is allowed.


• All fires shall be monitored from a point on the property where the fire is located, by a person capable of containing a fire, should containment become necessary.


• ONLY dry yard waste such as leaves, brush and logs grown on the property can be burned. NO trash, paper, lumber or building debris may be burned.


• Fire-fighting material, including but not limited to, a garden hose or a container of water sufficient to contain any fire started shall be at the site of the fire.

4. The Fire Department has been inspecting my building for many years and has never mentioned a violation in the past. Why are they indicating a violation this time?

Fire codes are updated regularly. Some of the things that cause changes in these codes may be a newer type of construction, a new construction method or maybe an event that occurred where people were injured. Whatever the reason, when the codes are updated, it is necessary to inspect your facility under the most current code. This may result in a change from the previous year in your inspection.

5. When I need a permit, whom do I call for an inspection?

Call the Fire Prevention Division. 816-271-4623 or 816-271-4604 to arrange a time for a Fire Inspector to come out and inspect.

6. What is a KNOX Box?

A Knox Box is a secure rapid entry system for emergency services. It is a secure box containing master keys and information about contact persons, materials on the property or and special information that will aid the emergency service.

7. Can I purchase a rapid entry key system (Knox Box) for my business?

Yes, you can pick up a form at Fire Department Headquarters 401 S. 7th. Once the form is filled out you mail it in with your payment. When you receive your Knox Box, a Fire Inspector will help you find the best location for installation at your address. After the box is properly installed, a Fire Truck with the master key to the Knox Box will come and place your Master keys into the box and lock it.

8. What code does the City of St Joseph Fire Department use?

The 2018 edition of the International Fire Code

9. My building has a sprinkler system. Are there things I should do to maintain the system?

If you own the building, you are required to see that the system is tested annually by a reputable contracted agency and the documentation of this test should be kept on file for the fire department to view in accordance with International Fire Code chapter 9. If there is a system in your building it must be in operational condition at all times. If you are a tenant or owner-occupant, there are other things you can do to be sure your system is ready in case it is needed. Never paint a sprinkler head. Each sprinkler head is designed to cover a certain amount of area in your building so before you build walls or large shelving units or stack storage to the ceiling, check with your fire inspector to be sure what you do won’t prevent the sprinkler head from doing it’s job. Also, never hang anything from a sprinkler head.

10. My building has a fire alarm system. Are there things I should do to maintain the system?

If you own the building, you are responsible to see that the system is tested annually by a reputable contracted agency and the documentation of this test should be kept on file for the fire department to view. Also, it would help if someone who is likely to be in the building on a daily basis knows where the alarm panel is located. If you are a tenant or owner-occupant, there are other things you can do to be sure your system is ready in case it is needed. Never paint a detector surface. Each detector is designed to cover a certain amount of area in your building so before you build walls or large shelving units or stack storage to the ceiling, check with your fire inspector to be sure what you do won’t prevent the detector from doing it’s job. Also, never hang anything from a detector.

11. Our alarm system keeps having false alarms. The alarm goes off but no fire is found. Can’t we do something about this?

Fire alarms seldom malfunction. Usually, if they are sounding, there is a reason. Sensing devices may need cleaning or replacement. Other reasons causing alarm activation may be as simple as a bag of popcorn that overcooked in a microwave, a co-worker smoking in an area where they shouldn’t be, or dust from re-modeling. In all of cases, even though big flames were not shooting from the building and hoses were not needed to put the fire out, the system was doing its job of alerting everyone in the building to a possible danger of a fire. If your system activates, immediately leave the building and do not re-enter until the proper authority investigated the alarm and gives the all clear to enter the building. Take every fire alarm seriously, follow your established evacuation plan, leave the building until someone of authority (building maintenance, security, the fire department, etc.) tell you it is safe to return.

12. I’ve heard quite a lot about carbon monoxide. Could I have this in my house and do I need a carbon monoxide detector?

There are many things that give off carbon monoxide. They include gas appliances such as furnaces, water heaters and stoves. Fuel burning space heaters and wood burning fireplaces can give off carbon monoxide. Even warming up your car or barbecuing in your garage can fill your house with carbon monoxide. The problem is that it is an odorless, colorless gas so until you begin to see symptoms, you don know it’s there. People experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning feel like they have a flue that came on suddenly. This also affects small pets and even plants. Carbon monoxide detectors will sense excessive levels of the gas early and warn you to leave. If your family is having symptoms or your detector is sounding an alarm, call 9-1-1 and the fire department will respond. We can take readings and provide medical help. Sometimes we can shut off the source of the problem but you will need to call out a technician to check the appliance and make repairs. For more information on carbon monoxide and detectors Contact Fire Prevention at 271-4623 or 271-4604.

13. Can I burn brush or yard waste in St. Joseph?

There is a limited amount of burning that is allowed in St Joseph. Included in the list are burning for land clearing, recreational fires, warming fires for construction crews and ceremonial fires. In addition to those already mentioned the city applies to the state Department of Natural Resources twice a year for a period of open burning. For more specific information on burning regulations or requirements Please contact Fire Prevention at 271-4623 or 271-4604.

14. How can I get a fire truck to come to my event?

Call 816-271-4603 for assistance with scheduling public education programs such as fire truck visits, fire station visits and other public education programs. Please call at least 2 weeks prior to your event. Large events or events that require a longer time of involvement may require more than 2 weeks notice.

15. People completely disregard the fire lanes in my building. What can I do about it?

The St Joseph Fire and Police Departments can both write fire lane violation citations. You can report this either to the Fire Department or the Police Department at 271-4777.

16. If during an inspection a violation is found how long do I have to fix it?

For a routine (non-life threatening) violation we usually grant 10 business days for correction. If a life threatening violation is found we require it to be corrected immediately. If a violation cannot be corrected in the amount of time given then we will work with the owner/occupant to ensure compliance as quickly as possible.

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1. How do I get a copy of my birth certificate?

Missouri county health departments have access to the database in Jefferson City where vital records are housed. The City of St. Joseph Health Department offers vital records service from 8am to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday.

Come to the second floor of Patee Market, with photo identification, to complete an application and pay a $15 fee per copy:
Patee Market
904 S. 10th St.
St. Joseph, MO 64503

The birth must have taken place since 1920 in Missouri. The application must be submitted by the person on the certificate or a family member.

2. What do I need a birth certificate for?

A State certified record of birth is a legal document. A birth certificate may be required to enroll a child in school, to get a driver’s permit or license, to get married, to travel or get a passport, some employers require them, as do some insurance policies, or for other legal documentation purposes.

3. Can I get a death certificate from your office?

Death certificates are also issued through county health department offices for deaths which occurred in Missouri, since 1980, of natural causes. If the death you need a certificate for does not meet these qualifications, you may contact the State office of vital records, below. A certificate of death may be needed for probate purposes, to process insurance claims or to buy or sell a piece of property that was wholly or partially owned by someone who is now deceased.

4. How can I pay for a birth or death certificate?

The City of St. Joseph Health Department accepts cash, personal check, money orders, debit and credit cards.

5. How do I make a change to a certificate?

All changes must be processed at the State level. County offices cannot make any change to a certificate, even if it appears to be a misprint or typographical error. Information to contact the state is below.
For birth records 573-751-6378
For death records 573-751-6385
For adding a father's name to a birth record 573-751-6216
For processing an Adoption or legitimating a birth 573-522-1715
For registration of Putative Father Registry 573-526-1537

6. How do I obtain a copy of a birth certificate from another state?

We can only process requests for Missouri births, but we’ll be happy to give you the contact information for other states or foreign births. Call our office (816-271-4636) for the phone number and address. Or you can visit the National Center for Health Statistics site on “Where to Write For Vital Records." The Internet address is http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/howto/w2w/w2welcom.htm.

7. I live out of state and need a copy of a Missouri birth or death certificate in a hurry. What other options are there?

For expedited service, contact Vital Chek at the toll-free phone number 1-877-817-7363 twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Documents can be requested by phone and charged to a major credit card. However, there is an additional $9.95 charge for the use of this service. To further expedite the request, overnight services are offered with an additional fee. Applications can also be placed on-line at www.vitalchek.com.

8. I’m traveling to another country. Do I need any vaccinations?

Possibly. The Clay County Health Department in Liberty, Missouri can assist you. Contact them at 816-781-1601 and ask for the Oversea’s Nurse.

9. How prepared are St. Joseph and the rest of Buchanan County for a bioterrorism attack?

St. Joseph and Buchanan County have emergency response plans in place to deal with hazardous chemical or biological events, as well as other disasters and are currently working to strengthen these plans. These plans involve the coordination of multiple agencies involved in law enforcement, public health, fire, emergency medical services and disaster response. For example, Public Health has developed systems for rapid detection and investigation of disease outbreaks that could be the first indication of a biological attack. Early detection will be very important, so that persons at risk can be identified and managed appropriately.

10. Is there a charge for children or adult immunizations?

There is no charge for most immunizations at the City of St. Joseph Health Department. Menactra, the vaccine to protect against meningitis, has a charge of $90. Call to confirm price and availability of Menactra vaccine. At this time, the health department clinic does not have Gardasil available. The clinic has a nominal charge for a TB test. TB vaccine is purchased by the clinic. The vaccines used in the immunization clinic are supplied through the Vaccine For Children (VFC) program.

11. Do I need to start all my shots over if I’m late getting one of my immunizations?

No. The clinic nurses will look at your immunization record and decide what needs to be given at that time. No shot series is started over.

12. Is there a charge for a pregnancy test?

A pregnancy test will cost $5. An appointment is necessary to have a test done. Please call 271-4725 to make an appointment. Tests are done Monday - Friday from 8am to 11:30am and 1pm to 4pm.

13. How can I get temporary Missouri HealthNet?

Temporary Missouri HealthNet is only for pregnant women. If you have had a positive pregnancy test you can bring your proof of pregnancy to the health department and we can issue your “temp”. You will also need to bring proof of income, your social security number, and a picture identity.

14. What is the HIV test?

The HIV test looks for antibodies to HIV in either a blood specimen or an oral specimen. Results take two weeks to come back and testing is confidential. This antibody test can detect antibodies as soon as 2 weeks - 6 months after infection. The cost of the test is $10.

15. What is WIC?

WIC is Women, Infants, and Children Nutrition Program which is funded by the federal government. We service women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or whose pregnancy recently ended or infants under 12 months old and children under 5 years old who have qualified financially and have been found to have a nutritional risk. We can also test infants and children in these age ranges who have a male guardian.

16. How do I get WIC?

To get WIC, you need to meet the WIC income guidelines and have a nutritional risk.

17. What foods can I get on WIC?

Women and children: milk, cheese, eggs, cereal, peanut butter, beans, 100% natural juices.
If postpartum women are fully breastfeeding, they also get carrots and tuna added to their package.
Baby formula, baby cereal and baby juices.

18. What do we bring to the certification/recertification?

Picture ID: Drivers License, School ID, or Work Identification
Medicaid Card
Person or persons to be certified/recertified for WIC
Social Security Card
Shot record of child
Proof of income: wages, child support, SSI, interest on accounts etc.
Crib Card or discharge papers from hospital for baby

19. How can I be certain my breastfed baby is getting enough to eat?

Breastfeeding is the perfect food for babies. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding as the best source of nutrition through at least the first birthday and longer when possible. Parents should look for certain characteristics to help identify the signs of a healthy, well-fed newborn. A baby should have a minimum of six wet diapers and three bowel movements per day after the third day of life; a weight loss no greater than 7 to 10 percent of the child's birth weight; and show a weight gain beginning the second week of life. For guidance on breastfeeding, contact WIC, a lactation specialist at Heartland Regional Medical Center New Beginnings or a local chapter of the La Leche League http://www.lalecheleague.org/

20. Where can I get more formula?

Birthright, food pantries, Heartbeat Pregnancy, Support Services. WIC only provides so much formula per month to an infant and the rest of the formula needs for the infant are up to the guardian.

21. Where are the food pantries?

Contact the Social Welfare Board at 233-5188 for a complete, up-to-date listing of food pantries.

22. What are some phone numbers of various community help programs?

Division of Family Services - 387-2000
Family Guidance - 364-1501
Head Start - 233-7193
Parents-As-Teachers - 671-4300
Birthright - 279-8242
Catholic Charities - 232-2885
EOC - 233-7193
Calvin Center - 232-7779
Inter-Serv - 238-4511

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1. Where do I apply for a job with the city?

Applications are only accepted online. To view the current available jobs, visit the job postings page.

2. How often do you post jobs?

Jobs are posted after a requisition has been received from the department indicating that they will have a vacancy.

3. How do I apply to be a Police Officer?

Applicants must be at least 21 years of age. Applications are now being taken for Police Officer on a continual basis. Written tests will be conducted as needed, generally on an annual basis. Notification of the time/date for the written test will be given at the time of application or a letter will be mailed to interested applicants once a date is established.

4. How do I apply to be a Firefighter?

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, have Firefighter 1, Firefighter 2, HazMat Awareness and HazMat Operations, CPAT (must have been taken within one year of test date), and an EMT license in order to apply. Applications will not be accepted without all the required certifications. We take applications year round with the written test being held once a year. Notification of the time/date for the testing will be given at the time of application or a letter mailed to interested applicants once a date is established.

5. If I don’t have the required certifications and licenses for firefighter, how can I obtain them?

Hillyard Technical Center holds a Fire Academy each year. The course generally runs from about August – June of each year. Contact Hillyard at 816-671-4170 for more information. There are also other educational institutions outside of St. Joseph where these certifications can be obtained. Interested parties can contact the Fire Department 816-271-4603 for more information on schools that offer these certifications.

6. What jobs do you have available for teenagers?

In the summer we hire lifeguards, cashiers, head guards, pool cleaners, recreation attendants and seasonal laborers. All must be at least 16 years of age and bring in a copy of their birth certificate if they are under 19. Lifeguards and head guards must also have their lifeguard, first aid, AED and CPR certification.

In the fall/winter we hire scorekeepers, referees, adult league referees and gym supervisors. All must be at least 16 years of age (except for scorekeepers who must be at least 15) and bring in a copy of their birth certificate if they are under 19.

7. Once I have applied for a position, will I be contacted?

You will only be contacted if you are chosen for an interview. Parks & Recreation seasonal applications are contacted as needed by the Parks Department. Police and Fire applicants are given notification of testing dates and times as they apply or by mail after applying. Successful completion of a physical agility and written test are required (for Police and Fire positions) before they can go further in the hiring process.

8. How do I get on the interview list?

After the closing date, all applications are reviewed to determine which applicants will be contacted for an interview. The hiring department may do further review and/or may conduct some preliminary review (e.g. telephone interview) to narrow down the candidates and determine which candidates they would like to bring in for an interview.

The process works differently for Parks & Recreation seasonal employees as well as Police Officer and Firefighters. If you applied for a seasonal position, those applications are screened by the Parks Department.

If you applied for a Police Officer or Firefighter position, there is a physical agility test, written test as well as background checks and other criteria, which must be met prior to further consideration being given.

9. How does the interview process work?

The hiring department will schedule face to face interviews. Depending on the position other job related testing may be scheduled. Applicants may also be required to return for further interviews. The department may also request additional applications from those who applied. If the department does not find a candidate they feel meets the qualifications they may re-post the position. Once the department has an applicant who meets the qualifications, they will make a contingent job offer (see below).

Police and Fire applicants are initially ranked according to written scores. The department will schedule oral interviews. The number of interviews is dependent on the number requested by the hiring department. Therefore, all applicants may not necessarily be interviewed. Other steps in the process are conducted at various times such as background checks. Once a candidate has successfully completed all steps in the process they are put on an eligibility list for up to one year. At any time during the year, the department has the option of hiring anyone from the list in any order.

10. How do I file a claim against the City for property damage, personal injury, etc.?

There is a Liability Claim Form available in the Risk Management Office, Room 307, City Hall. The form must be filled out and submitted along with two estimates of any damages being claimed. The information is then submitted to the Risk Manager or Claims Technician in the Legal Department, who then processes it through the city’s insurance carrier for review and determination. The city makes no promise/guarantee of payment of any claim. For further information, please contact the Risk Manager at 816-271-4671 or the Claims Technician at 816-271-4739.

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1. What types of waste do you accept?

We accept anything but liquid waste, car batteries, and hazardous waste.

2. What are the hours of operation?

Monday – Friday 7:00AM to 4:30PM
Saturday 7:00Am to 2:00PM

3. How much does it cost?

The schedule of fees for the landfill can be found here.

4. Do you accept paint?

Yes we except paint if it is dried up or empty cans.

5. If they still have liquid in them, what do you do?

Latex can be watered down ( ½ paint, ½ water) and poured down the drain.
Oil base can be opened until dried or you can put an absorbent material like kitty litter or saw dust and it will dry up faster. You can also pour oil base paint onto an old carpet or cardboard and let dry.

6. When is Clean Sweep?

For information on Clean Sweep, click here.

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1. Does the city attorney's office provide legal advice to citizens?

The city attorney's office represents the city of St. Joseph as a public entity. The office does not handle private litigation on behalf of city residents. In other words, the city attorney's office does not handle divorces, child custody issues, wills, adoptions, tenant-landlord problems, personal bankruptcies, collections, etc. Citizens will need to contact a private attorney of their choosing, or, in some instances, may wish to contact the Small Claims Court at 816-271-1456.

2. What does the City Prosecutor do?

The City Prosecutor is the person who actually files the official complaint against you in Municipal Court. Technically, the City Prosecutor will review the case and decide whether there is legal cause to believe you have committed a violation of the law. In some cases, the City Prosecutor will file charges that are different from what the officer wrote on the ticket. This is part of the City Prosecutor's duty and is completely legal. The complaint filed by the City Prosecutor is not expected to resolve all of those issues. The facts of a case are finally decided by the Municipal Judge at trial. The judge may find you guilty or not guilty at trial. If the judge finds that you are guilty of the crime charged at trial, he may assess a fine, probation or possibly jail time depending on the crime charged and the circumstances of the case. However, you may plead guilty to the crime and no trial will be held. The judge may assess a fine, put you on probation, or possibly sentence you to jail depending on the crime charged. This is part of the process so that contested charges are decided fairly. The City Prosecutor does not dismiss cases unless there is a legal reason to do so.

3. Will it cost me extra to talk to the City Prosecutor?

The City Prosecutor never charges fees or costs to you or your attorney. If you are not represented by an attorney, you must come in person to your arraignment to talk to the City Prosecutor about your case. However, you may come in person before your arraignment to speak with the prosecutor if you are unable to attend your arraignment on its scheduled date. The City Prosecutor has no obligation to talk to a defendant about his/her case, and may choose not to in certain instances. If you have your own attorney, you must let your attorney handle all communications with the City Prosecutor's Office. It is unethical for any City Prosecutor to talk to a represented defendant without his/her attorney.

4. When the Police Department indicates that it will be referring the case to the City Prosecutor, what steps do I need to take to follow up on the problem and the possibility of charges being filed?

The Police Department will send its written report (or information card) to the City Prosecutor's Office for review. However, just because the Police Department advises that the information is being forwarded to the City Prosecutor's Office does not mean that the City Prosecutor will automatically file charges. The City Prosecutor may decline prosecution based upon the information in the report due to the fact that the ultimate discretion on whether or not to file a charge rests with the City Prosecutor. This is because cases filed in Municipal Court are brought by the City of St. Joseph, not by the victim/citizen. (Many victims believe that when charges are filed, it is their own personal case against the defendant. This is not the case.) If you wish to follow up on the possibility of charges being filed, you will need to make an appointment with the City Prosecutor.

5. What if I hire an attorney to represent me?

If you hire an attorney to represent you in court or otherwise, you will be responsible for your own attorney's fees. Fees for your own attorney vary, but most attorney's charge fees based on the amount of time spent on a case or on a flat fee based on the type of case. If you hire your own attorney, you must let your attorney handle all communications with the City Prosecutor's Office.

6. Who can I talk to about a ticket?

The City Prosecutor prosecutes violations of City ordinances, which include most traffic offenses charged in the City of St. Joseph (speeding, accidents, driving while revoked, and first offense DWI). It may also include minor misdemeanor crimes such as trespassing, property destruction, disturbing the peace, and assaults not involving serious injury.

*NOTE: The Buchanan County Prosecutor has a separate office and prosecutes more serious offenses charged under State law, which include violent crimes, felonies, most drug-related offenses, serious assaults, and repeat DWI offenses. The Buchanan County Prosecuting Attorney's Office also prosecutes traffic and speeding tickets and other violations outside City limits. All bad check charges are handled by the County Prosecuting Attorney's Office.

7. Why can't I talk to the City Prosecutor about my ticket over the phone?

Citations are formal and official proceedings. They require serious attention and require face to face communication. This is a protection for you because it helps prevent persons unrelated to the case from inquiring about the details of the case. It also allows the City Prosecutor to better identify the person he/she talked to regarding a case. Parking infractions are not handled by phone because of the high number of tickets and the minor fines involved. There are forms to protest a parking ticket if you believe you have received a parking ticket in error. To obtain a parking protest form, click on the link under Related Documents on the Legal page, or call Revenue Services at (816) 271-4760.

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1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

Show All Answers

1. Where is the Court located?

Buchanan County Courthouse Basement
411 Jules
St. Joseph, MO 64501

2. What are court hours?

• The court is in session at 8 a.m., with trials beginning at 10:00 a.m., Monday through Friday.
• Code violations and animal control dockets are heard at 1 p.m. every other Wednesday.
• Payments can be made between 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

3. Can I change my Court Date?

Yes, but you will only be allowed one continuance. If you do not contact the Court about a change in court date within 7 days prior to your court date, you will be expected to appear before the Judge.

4. I just got this ticket yesterday, can I pay it now?

No, the ticket must be filed by the City Prosecutor prior to taking payments. It may take up to a week for the filing and processing of your citation. We do not accept payment prior to the filing of the case.

5. Do I have to see the Judge?

It depends on the charges filed. If they are related to accident, assaults, operator license suspension, drugs/alcohol or not on the fine schedule, then yes you do. Otherwise, you can plead guilty by signing the back of the ticket and pay the fine.

6. I've become aware that a warrant has been issued for my arrest. What do I need to do to resolve this?

The City issues arrest warrants for individuals who either fail to appear for a court case or fail to comply with a court order to pay fines due. The warrant will only be removed by an appearance before the Judge or a plea of guilty and payment of fines due. If the case is due to an accident, stealing or an assault, the appearance before the Judge is mandatory.

7. I will be in today to pay my fines. Will you take the warrant off?

A warrant will only be taken off when at least half of the fines are paid. You must see the Judge during regular court hours for an extension.

8. Can I talk to the Judge over the phone?

The Judge cannot discuss a pending case. You must see the Judge during regular court session at 8am or 10:00am, on a first come, first serve basis.

9. What does “first come, first serve” mean?

Court is in session at 8:00 am (for arraignments) and 10:00 am (for trials) Monday through Friday. Cases are heard in the order that individuals check in. Code violations and Animal Control cases are heard at 1:00 pm on Wednesdays. The Clerk’s window opens at 7:30 am each day for defendant check-in. You must pass through the courtroom and turn left to find the Clerk’s window. Drop-ins after 8:00 am will have to reschedule. Those arriving earlier are inserted with the day's docket. Visitors paying in person may pay during regular court office hours 7:30 a.m. through 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

10. Can I clear someone else’s warrant?

Yes, but you must appear before the Judge during regular court sessions.

11. Can I satisfy someone else’s traffic ticket(s)?

Yes, if the violation listed is NOT an assault, drug/alcohol related, involving an accident, or a license suspension. The defendant must sign the back of the ticket.

12. If I am unable to be in Municipal Court on the date designated, how do I request a continuance?

You will need to contact the Municipal Court Clerk's Office at (816) 271-4686 to request a continuance. (If you do not appear in Municipal Court on the assigned date, and have not contacted the Municipal Court Clerk's Office to obtain a continuance, an additional charge of "Failure to Appear in Court" may be filed against you and the Municipal Judge may issue a warrant for your arrest.) Do not contact the City Prosecutor's office to request a continuance. The City Prosecutor cannot grant continuances to defendants.

13. What happens on the Municipal Court date on which I am scheduled to appear?

The first court date set for your ticket is called an arraignment. You are expected to be in Municipal Court on the date and time set for your case on the ticket. At the arraignment, the Municipal Judge will read you your rights and will read the charges against you. If you plead "guilty", the Municipal Judge will most likely assess a fine at that time. If you plead "not guilty", the Municipal Judge will set the case for a trial date in the near future. At the trial, the City Prosecutor will be required to prove the charges against you. (Again, if you do not appear in Municipal Court on the assigned date, and have not contacted the Municipal Court Clerk's Office to obtain a continuance, you may be charged with "Failure to Appear in Court", a separate crime, and the Municipal Judge may issue a warrant for your arrest.)

14. What is an arraignment?

An arraignment is a court hearing that is set to make certain you know the charges against you, and to find out how you plead. The arraignment allows you to enter a plea of "guilty" or "not guilty". It is not a trial. The arraignment is usually the first contact you have with the court about a particular ticket.

15. What happens if I plead "not guilty" at arraignment?

The Municipal Court will set a date for trial where the City Prosecutor will be required to prove the case against you.

16. What happens at trial?

You must be present at trial, even if you hire your own attorney. At trial, the City Prosecutor presents evidence first and will call witnesses to present the case against you. The City Prosecutor presents the case by asking the police officers, code enforcement officers, animal control officers and/or other witnesses questions. The answers these witnesses provide in Municipal Court help the Municipal Judge decide whether you committed the violation. At trial, you or your attorney may ask questions of the City Prosecutor's witnesses. You or your attorney may also call witnesses and present evidence in your own defense. You may also testify on your own behalf, if you wish. If you testify, the City Prosecutor may ask you questions about the case. The case you or your attorney presents also helps the Municipal Judge decide whether you committed the violation.

17. Can I change my trial date?

No, you must appear before Judge and request an extension.

18. How do I subpoena witnesses to appear in Municipal Court on my behalf and is there any charge for getting the subpoenas issued?

The Municipal Court Clerk's Office will issue subpoenas on behalf of the defendants. You will need to contact the Municipal Court Clerk if you have questions about this procedure and the costs involved.

19. What happens after the trial?

After the trial the Municipal Judge will either find you "guilty" or "not guilty". The Municipal Judge's decision after trial is called the verdict.

20. How do I obtain a copy of the police report?

The St. Joseph Police Department, Records Division, located at 501 Faraon, St. Joseph, Missouri, has all police reports on file. However, not all police reports are a matter of "public record". The Records Division will determine whether the report can be released and, if so, will advise you of the cost involved. The Records Division may be reached at (816) 271-4705.

21. What does the verdict mean?

If you are found "guilty", the Municipal Judge will sentence you. A "guilty" verdict can be appealed to the Circuit Court.

22. If I plead "guilty" or am found "guilty" at trial, do I have to pay the fine and Municipal Court costs at that time?

The Municipal Judge will assess the fine and Municipal Court costs due. If payment cannot be immediately made at the time of the Municipal Court appearance, a request for time to pay must be made and the terms and conditions of payment will be set by the Municipal Judge. In order to avoid additional costs and inconvenience, the terms and conditions of payment must be met, or changes in payment arrangements approved by the Municipal Judge.

23. When I was arrested, I was required to post a cash bond. How do I get my bond money back?

You must appear in person at Municipal Court with a picture ID to request a return of bond money. When a ruling is made on the outstanding balance due, a Consent to Forfeit bond money is filled out. A check is usually given to the defendant at that time of appearance.

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1. What is Planning & Zoning?

The city’s planning & zoning division is responsible for citywide planning and zoning administration, regulating subdivisions, and administering a comprehensive land use plan for the city, enforcing & implementing the existing subdivision and zoning codes (Chapter 26 and Chapter 31). Planning & Zoning also works closely with other departments, including Building and Public Works or project proposals and reviews, and Property Maintenance for code enforcement. 

2. What applications & permits does Planning & Zoning administer?

Planning & zoning reviews and issues permits for the following:

• Fences, hedges and retaining walls
• Signs
• Public sidewalk use permits

Planning & Zoning also reviews and processes all applications for the Zoning Board of Adjustment, Planning Commission, and Downtown Review Board, including:

• Zoning district changes (“rezoning”)
• Subdivision applications (“platting”)
• Conditional use permits
• Variances & exceptions
• Certificates of appropriateness

Applications and permits can be found online or in the Planning & Zoning office.

Planning & Zoning does not directly issue permits for applications for accessory structures, swimming pools, solar panels, additions, new residences, commercial projects, etc. but permit applications for these projects are reviewed by Planning & Zoning to ensure compliance with Chapters 26 and 31.

3. What is a subdivision or plat?

A subdivision or plat is one or more parcels of land that have gone through the subdivision process outlined in Chapter 26 and are recorded as a “lot of record” with Buchanan County. This creates a recorded “plat” or map of a property showing important information like property lines, utility and access easements, drainage, etc. Properties are typically required to be platted for development and permits to be issued for any project on that piece of land. Properties that are not platted would need to go through the subdivision or platting process.

A common misunderstanding is hearing the word “subdivision” can bring to mind large residential subdivision developments. This is not usually what the city means when using this word. In this case, a subdivision simply means the division of land (in many cases only one piece of property) into legal lots, blocks, tracts, or parcels. Neither is incorrect, but one specifically refers to the process utilized by the city.

4. What is the subdivision process or platting?

Platting is the process of creating a “lot of record” with Buchanan County through the city’s subdivision process outlined in Chapter 26. This creates a recorded “plat” or map of a lot or lots showing important information like property lines, utility and access easements, drainage, etc. Platting a property requires working with a surveyor and submitting a plat document and application to the city for review. Platting can be considered one of the first steps in development of a property, along with zoning.

The City has two subdivision processes:

Administrative:

• A subdivision application can be considered administrative if the proposed subdivision does not have more than 3 lots, do not alter development or impact public services, do not require new street or alley right-of-way or other public dedication, has no significant increase in service requirements (or impact on maintaining existing services), or does not involve drainage improvements
• Application is reviewed by staff, who make the final decision of approval. 
• Approved administrative subdivisions may be recorded with Buchanan County.

Major: 

• Major subdivisions are any subdivision that does not meet the criteria of administrative subdivisions. 
• The process is split into preliminary and final stages. 
• Preliminary applications are reviewed by staff and placed on a Planning Commission agenda where the Planner provides a recommendation of approval, approval with conditions, or denial. 
• The Planning Commission then provides a recommendation to City Council, where the item goes through two hearings. 
• If approved, the final application may be submitted (at no extra cost) and the plat will go through two additional hearings in City Council. 
• Approved final major subdivisions may be recorded with Buchanan County.

The Planning & Zoning division can provide more information about the platting process and requirements.

5. How Do I combine, split, or adjust my property lines?

For property that is already platted, you can submit a Lot Line Adjustment Application. This application allows applicants to split existing lots, combine existing lots, or adjust boundary lines on existing lots, within limits outlined in Chapter 26. Applications require a survey and are submitted to the Planning & Zoning office for review and approval. Approved lot line adjustments may be recorded with Buchanan County.

6. Does the city provide surveying services?

The city does not provide surveying services. For applications that require surveying services, it is important to do your research and explore all cost and service options available to you. You can contact the Planning & Zoning division for more information.

7. What is zoning?

A property’s zoning determines what uses are permitted on the property and helps guide development. For example, most properties along the Belt are zoned “C-3, Commercial” allowing for uses like restaurants, grocery stores, etc. Zoning districts also determine things like setback requirements for buildings, height requirements, parking requirements, landscaping, and more. Information on every zoning district in St. Joseph can be found in Chapter 31 of the City Code.

Some parts of St. Joseph are in special zoning districts such as Downtown, which is in the Downtown Precise Plan district. These special districts have certain development standards that regulate more specifically than the standard zoning districts. Information on Precise Plans can be found online.

It is helpful to know information about what your property is zoned, as it determines the use and regulation of your property.

8. What is rezoning?

Rezoning (Zoning District Change) is the process of changing the zoning of a property from one district to another, i.e.: M-2 Heavy Manufacturing to R-1A, Single Family Residential, to allow new uses or development on a property that otherwise would not have been allowed before, or for reasons specific to a particular piece of land, such as a property historically being industrial but is now used as a residential property.

A rezoning starts with completing the Zoning District Change Application. Once the application has been received by the appropriate deadline, it is placed on a Planning Commission agenda and from there it would move onto City Council for approval or denial. If approved, the zoning district will officially be changed in the city’s records.

9. How do I find my property’s zoning?

There are several ways to find out information about properties in St. Joseph. The city and county offer a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) web portal that allows you to search addresses and find out more about them, including info like zoning.

To turn on the zoning layer:

1. Look along the left-hand side, there are a number of options in the “Layer” tab. Locate “Jurisdiction”.
2. Hit the “+” symbol next to “Jurisdiction”.
3. Check the box next to “Planning and Zoning”.

This will allow you to see current zoning of properties in the city and county. All properties in the city are zoned a specific district. Information on zoning districts and their permitted and conditional uses can be found in Chapter 31 of the City Code.

You can search for a specific address via the toolbar along the top:

1. Select “search”
2. Select “Parcel Number”, “Owner Name”, “Property Address” (search by address), or whatever search option suits your needs.
3. Enter the information into search bar and click “search”.

10. What does zoning determine?

Zoning determines what kind of structure can be built on a property and what regulations there are including setbacks, height limits, façade, and more depending on the zoning district. For example, residential zoning districts may have more restrictive setback requirements than commercial districts to promote separation between houses. These regulations also determine accessory structure setbacks and height, fence height, signs, and other uses within the city.

If a property is not zoned correctly, it will prohibit the construction of any nonconforming use on that property, potentially requiring a rezoning of that property.

11. How do I get a fence permit and what are the city’s rules for fences?

A fence permit application can either be obtained in Room 107 of City Hall, or online, on the Planning & Zoning Applications & Permits page. The rules for fences, including material and height requirements, are outlined in Chapter 31.

The city does not require an official survey for a fence permit application; however, the city does require a site plan, showing the location of the fence on the property (these do not have to be done by a contractor or other professional). 

The city recommends that all fences be built at least a foot into the property off of the property lines. This can help avoid disputes with neighbors and confusion of who owns the fence. If you plan to build on the property line, the city requires the signature of the owner of the shared property and the permit application be notarized.

The city does not enforce HOA requirements for fences within HOAs. If you are a member of an HOA it is important to check any regulations your HOA may have regarding fencing before applying for a fence permit. 

For requirements regarding the fencing of vacant lots, please contact the city directly for more information on how to apply for a fence permit.

Fences that do not or cannot meet requirements outlined in the code would either be denied a permit or could proceed by obtaining a variance or exception from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

12. How do I get a pool permit and what are the city’s rules for pools?

A pool permit application can either be obtained in Room 107 of City Hall, or online, on the Planning & Zoning Applications & Permits page. The rules for pools are outlined in Chapter 31 of the City Code, and are applicable for all residential areas.

When applying for a pool permit, the city requires a site plan showing the location of the pool on the property with measurements to nearby buildings and property lines (this does not have to be done by a contractor or other professional).

Any pool, in-ground or above-ground, over two feet in depth requires a fence with locking gate.

Pools that do not or cannot meet requirements outlined in the code would either be denied a permit or could proceed by obtaining a variance or exception from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

13. How do I get a garage/shed/etc. permitted?

The city defines buildings such as garages, sheds, etc. as “accessory buildings”. These are buildings that are “accessory” to a primary structure, usually a house. The city regulates accessory buildings through Sec. 31-050 of the City Code, including setback requirements, height limits, etc.

The city does not permit accessory structures on vacant lots. Accessory buildings must be accessory to a primary structure on the same property.

Structures over 120 square feet are required to obtain a building permit through the city’s building department. Any accessory buildings applying to be permitted would require a site plan showing the location of the building in relation to nearby buildings and property lines (this does not have to be done by a contractor or other professional).

Structures that do not or cannot meet requirements outlined in the code would either be denied a permit or could proceed by obtaining a variance or exception from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

14. How do I get a sign permit?

Sign permit applications are found online, as well as sign regulations for both residential and nonresidential areas of the city. To obtain a permit, submit the application to the Planning & Zoning department along with a site plan, images of the proposed signage, and any other supporting materials.

Some areas of the city, such as Precise Plan areas, have specific sign regulations that must be adhered to. If any sign application does not conform to the sign code, or the applicable Precise Plan regulations, then the sign would either not be permitted or could be potentially approved through the application for an exception from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

15. What is a site plan?

A site plan is a prepared document similar to a map that shows the property where a project is taking place and several elements that allows the document to be reviewed for permitting. This information includes existing buildings, proposed buildings, required setbacks, proposed setbacks, dimensions, and other information specific to the application.

Site plans do not have to be professionally drafted, but they do have to be legible. Site plans that are difficult or impossible to read delay the permitting process and may result in a project not being approved at all.

16. What is the Zoning Board of Adjustment?

The Zoning Board of Adjustment, also known as ZBA or BZA, reviews and makes decisions on variance and exception applications within the city. They review applications and make a determination on whether the proposed structure would be appropriate and if the request is reasonable and supported by the application provided. 

Applications for the ZBA can be found online and are submitted to the City Planner to be placed on a ZBA hearing agenda. It is recommended that applicants meet with the City Planner prior to any applications being submitted to determine the best course of action.

17. What is a variance or exception?

A variance can be described as official permission from the city to allow something to be constructed or put in use within certain parameters that otherwise does not meet the standards of the City Code. For example, an applicant who wants to build an attached garage within required setbacks would need to request a variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) and in their application explain why they are making this request. The ZBA reviews this application and makes a decision.

An exception is similar to a variance, but focused specifically on signs, parking, fences, telecommunications towers, and accessory uses. Like a variance, an applicant would need to request an exception from the ZBA explaining the reason for the request, and the ZBA would make a decision on the application.

More information on variances and exceptions, including the full description of application requirements and procedures can be found online.

18. What is the Planning Commission?

The Planning Commission reviews applications for zoning district changes (including Precise Plans and Planned Unit Developments), major subdivisions, code amendments, and generally all major planning documents adopted by the city. For most applications (zoning, subdivisions, code amendments, etc.) the Planning Commission provides a recommendation that is forwarded to the City Council who has final approval.

Applications for the Planning Commission can be found online and are submitted to the City Planner to be placed on a Planning Commission hearing agenda. It is recommended that applicants meet with the City Planner prior to any applications being submitted to determine the best course of action.

19. What is the Downtown Review Board?

The Downtown Review Board (or DRB) is the reviewing body for applications for certificates of appropriateness for projects taking place within downtown St. Joseph. The downtown area has specific regulations outlined within the Downtown Precise Plan document, and any variation from this document requires a certificate of appropriateness (or COA) from the DRB to move forward. This body is similar to the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) in this respect, though the scope is limited to the downtown area.

Applications for the DRB can be found online and are submitted to the City Planner to be placed on a DRB hearing agenda. It is recommended that applicants meet with the City Planner prior to any applications being submitted to determine the best course of action.

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1. When should I call 911?

You should call 911 in any emergency situation. Do not call the station in an emergency situation, call 911 so that the communications center can dispatch officers promptly to your location. The rule of thumb is “if you need an officer to respond…then call 911.” If possible, try to remain calm and give as much information as is safely possible to the 9-1-1 operator.

2. How do I make a Police Report?

If it is a life-threatening emergency, you should call 911.  If not, call 816-271-4777.  Not all reports require an officer respond and can be made by phone with our Teleserve Division during regular business hours by calling 816-271-4777.  Many reports can also be made online at your convenience.

3. What happens after I file a written report about an incident?

The department reviews each report written to ascertain whether there is sufficient information to conduct a follow-up investigation. If there is information that is available for a case solution, the case is transferred to the Detective Division for further development. During this process, a Detective will contact you to see if you have any additional information. If you have a question reference your case please call (816) 271-5336. This process may take 3 to 5 business days, so please be patient.

4. Where can I get a copy of a police report taken in St. Joseph, Missouri?

You can obtain police reports at the Law Enforcement Center, 501 Faraon Street in St. Joseph, Missouri. Police Records is open Monday through Friday, 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. You may call them at (816) 271-4705.

5. I was the victim of a hit and run accident, how do I get follow-up information?

The police Traffic Unit investigates hit and run accidents. If you have a question in regards to your case please call (816) 271-4882.  This process may take 5 to 7 business days, so please be patient. 

6. I received a ticket, where do I go to pay it?

If you received a Municipal Court ticket, you will need to go to the Buchanan County Courthouse, 411 Jules, Municipal Division located in the basement of the courthouse (816) 271-4686. If you received a Circuit Court ticket you will need to go to the Buchanan County Courthouse, Circuit Division, located on the 3rd floor of the Buchanan County Courthouse, 411 Jules (816) 271-1462. If you received a parking ticket, you will to go to City Hall-1100 Frederick to the Financial Services Division (816) 271-4760.

7. What information should I exchange with the other driver if I am in an accident?

Missouri State Statute requires you to give your name, address, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at the scene of an accident. It is also a good idea to write down a description of the other driver’s vehicle (year, color, model, license plate, etc.), as well as exchanging your insurance information and possibly a phone number.

8. If an incident occurred in another city, can I still report it in St. Joseph?

No. Any report you make regarding an incident, must be made in the city in which the incident occurred, with the exception of Identity theft and Internet crimes.

9. Where can I get a restraining order…or an order of protection?

You can file for an order of protection against the person who is abusing you at the Buchanan County Courthouse-411 Jules Street, St. Joseph, Missouri (816) 271-1462.

10. Where do I report an animal bite?

If the animal bite occurred in St. Joseph, Missouri then you should contact the Animal Control office at 816-271-4876 to report the bite and for an animal control officer to respond if needed. If an animal seriously injures someone, then you need to call 911.

11. How can I get a police ride along?

The St. Joseph Police Department has a ride along program to which it is easy to apply. Contact the Support Services Division 816-271-4881 to obtain an application. Your application will be reviewed and a criminal history run. If you are approved (you must be over 18, and not have a criminal record or warrants), they will schedule a time and date for you to ride-along. Your ride-along will consist of riding with a patrol officer as he/she works a normal shift…answering calls, stopping vehicles, and everything else that makes up a typical tour-of-duty. Riding along with an officer can be an eye-opening experience. Ride Along Application

12. How do I get my property returned?

All property that is taken into custody by the Department is inventoried into the property section of the Department. It is held until the Prosecuting Attorney determines whether a criminal case will be filed. If a case is filed, the property is held until released by the Prosecutor’s Office. If a case is not filed, the property can be returned to its rightful owner. If you have property to be returned, please call (816) 271-4784 and make arrangements. Property can be returned Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

13. How do I make a complaint or compliment an officer?

Many people believe their complaints will be addressed more rapidly if they contact City Hall, the Mayor, City Manager, or Chief of Police. The Professional Standards Office conducts investigations of citizen complaints. A Professional Standards Officer may be reached at (816) 271-4780. By contacting an on-duty supervisor or the Professional Standards Office, the complaint procedure is started in a more timely manner. The on-duty supervisor resolves many minor complaints and questions regarding our procedures as soon as they are received. To contact an on-duty supervisor, call (816) 271-4722 or the Communication Center at (816) 271-4777.
You may also fill out a Complaint Form or a Commendation Form.

14. How do I become a St. Joseph Police Officer?

To be a police officer, applicants must be at least 21 years of age with no felony convictions. In addition, they should not have any significant traffic convictions that would limit their ability to be insured by the City of St. Joseph.  For more information on Missouri Police Officer requirements,  visit the Missouri POST website.

To check for Police Officer openings, visit the City of St. Joseph Careers web page.

15. How do I get a uniform shoulder patch?

At this time we currently do not honor these requests due to the high cost of patches. We are sorry that we can not honor your requests.

16. Who can I call about phone solicitors to see if they are credible?

You can call Police Administration (816) 271-4702 Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. to see whether or not person(s) are authorized to solicit within the city limits of St. Joseph or are a legitimate organization.

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1. What do I do if my neighbor has a code violation?

If you believe there are conditions on any property in town that might constitute a code violation, call 816-271-5342 to report the property address and a description of the problem to the property maintenance division. An inspector will investigate the report and if a violation does exist, notify the property owner that the conditions must be corrected.

2. What are the inspection and notification procedures?

The inspector conducts an inspection of the property to determine whether or not a code violation exists. If a code violation is verified, the inspector mails a legal notice letter to the property owner to request the code violation be corrected. The legal notice letter for common code violations provides a 10 day period of time for the property owner to correct the violation. At the end of this period, the inspector will re-inspect the property to determine whether or not the code violation has been corrected. If the code violation has not been corrected and the property owner has not requested an extension of time from the inspector, the inspector will proceed to issue a summons or order abatement. Extensions of time to correct the code violation are limited and require a plan of abatement and continuous progress. The owners of properties where weeds and rank growths of vegetation violations occur more than once during the same or successive growing seasons will receive one legal notice letter at the beginning of the growing season. Further violations regarding weeds and rank growths of vegetation during that growing season will be abated without notification. Weeds and tall grasses are in violation when they reach the height 7 inches.

3. What are the billing and abatement procedures?

In Code Enforcement, the objective is abatement of the code violation. If the property owner fails to abate a code violation, the City may elect to abate the violation.

When the city expends any funds in the abatement of any nuisance, the director of finance, or his or her designee, shall notify, by certified mail, the person against whose property the costs were incurred of said costs. The director of Planning and Community Development shall certify the costs incurred in abating the nuisance and administratively processing the nuisance to the director of finance, together with the description of the property. The cost of administratively processing the abatement to the director of finance shall be $75.00 per regular abatement action, $200.00 for large special bids and $600.00 for railroad bids. The person notified shall have 30 days from the mailing of said notice within which to pay the costs of the abatement to the director of finance. If the person so notified fails to pay the costs of the abatement within 30 days, the director of finance shall immediately, upon the receipt of this information, enter an assessment in the appropriate books of the city to be kept for that purpose; and upon the entry of this assessment a lien will attach to the property.

4. What are your summons procedures?

The failure of a property owner to abate a code violation may result in the inspector issuing a summons to appear before the Municipal court Judge. The inspector sets an arraignment date five weeks in advance. The Judge will set a trial date if the property owner pleads "not guilty."

Any person who has been found guilty of violating this section shall be required to pay a minimum fine of $25.00 for the first offense. Any person who has been found guilty of violating this section a second time during the same 12 month period shall pay a minimum fine of $50.00. Any person who is found guilty of violating this section a third time during the same 12 month period shall be fined a minimum of $150.00. Any person who is found guilty of violating this section four or more times during the same 12 month period shall be fined a minimum of $300.00 for the fourth offense and each subsequent offense. If a person is charged and found guilty of more than one offense on the same day, then all such offenses on that day, for purposes of this section, shall be counted as one violation.

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1. What type of bids are advertised and where?

Procurements between $1,000 and $5,000 (Professional Services) or $1,000 and $20,000(Consumables/Equipment) – Authorized persons may make procurements that are $1,000, but less than $5,000 and $20,000 respectively after obtaining three price quotations and receiving written approval from his/her department director and the purchasing agent on a form or in a format prescribed by the purchasing agent.


Procurements greater than $5,000(Professional Services) and $20,000(Consumables/Equipment) are competitive sealed bids – All purchases anticipated to exceed $5,000 and $20,000 respectively shall be formally bid except as otherwise stated in the Procurement Policy.


Any procurement with an estimated cost of $5,000 or more is advertised in the Public Notice section of the local newspaper.

If the procurement is being funded by federal funds they are also advertised in minority newspapers.

2. What is a Bidder’s List?

It is a list of prospective bidders, categorized by commodities and services. The bidders’ list is the source list used by the Purchasing Division for the solicitation of bids.

3. How do get on the Bidder’s List?

To apply, the vendor should complete the Vendor Registration Application and W-9 form, listing all commodities and services on which requests for bids are desired. The completed and signed form must be returned to the Purchasing Office at the address printed on the form. A list of products, brands, and services that are provided by the vendor may be submitted with the application.

It is the vendor’s responsibility to notify the Purchasing Division of any changes in its ownership, officers and/or address at the time the change occurs.

4. What happens after I submit my Vendor Application?

The vendor’s name will be placed on the active bidders’ list for the service, commodity, or equipment classification requested.

5. How is the Bidder’s List Used?

Invitations for Bids, or some other method of solicitation, will be sent to those vendors appearing on the bidders list.

6. What is a purchase order?

Purchase orders are issued to officially authorize purchases for various City departments. The City of St. Joseph may not be held responsible for payment of purchases made without an official purchase order number.

7. Can I review specifications?

Any person may review the specifications for advertised procurement in the Office of the Purchasing Agent any time during normal business hours, Monday thru Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., or they may view bids online.

8. What is an addendum?

It is an addition or supplement to a document, for example, items or information added to an IFB, that should be taken into consideration in submission of a bid.

9. What is a bid security?

Bid security guarantees that the successful bidder will accept the purchase order or contract if offered and furnish the commodities or services as stated in the bid.

Failure to accept the contract and/or furnish the commodities or services offered will cause the amount of the bid security to revert to the City.

10. Is bid security a set amount?

Normally bid security is requested to be 5% of the base bid, but there are instances, such as price agreements, where the City requests a flat amount. If bid security is required, the amount will be stated in the Invitation to Bidders.

11. If bid security is required how should it be submitted?

At the time the bid is submitted, the bidder must furnish a bid security in the form of a bond, certified check or bank draft in the amount required, made payable to the City of St. Joseph.

12. Will my bid security be returned?

Bid security of unsuccessful vendors will be returned after the award is made.

If a performance bond is required in the Invitation for Bid, the successful bidder’s security will be held until a performance bond in the amount stated in the Invitation for Bid is received by the Purchasing Division.

13. What is a bid opening?

The formal process in which sealed bids are opened at the time and place specified in the Invitation for Bids and recorded.

14. Who do I contact if I have a question or complaint about Prevailing Wage?

The City has a Compliance Technician who can answer questions pertaining to Prevailing Wage Laws and Rates. The Compliance Technician is located at City Hall in Room 201 or by calling 816-271-4696.

15. What is a performance bond?

A performance bond guarantees full performance of all obligations imposed upon the bidder by the purchase order or contract with the City. Performance bonds are required for all construction contracts and on some service contracts. If a performance bond is required it will be listed in the Invitation For Bidders.

16. What happens if a vendor fails to perform?

If the bidder fails to perform any obligations the City may recover from either the bidder or surety company (or both) any and all damages suffered because of the breach of contract.

17. What does it mean when a bid is rejected?

Bids are rejected for various reasons, the most common are: no signature on the Invitation For Bidder page, addendums not acknowledged, no bid bond submitted or the bid was received after the specified date and time.

18. How do I get the results of a bid?

Contact the Purchasing Division at 816-271-5330, we will fax a bid tabulation, or you may view the results online.

19. Can I review bids submitted by other vendors?

Once bids are publicly opened a vendor can review the bid file in the Purchasing Division, Monday thru Friday, from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

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1. What are the hours of operation for the Recycling Center?

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 7:30AM – 6:00PM.

2. What type of materials does the Recycling Center accept?

Newspaper
Clear and brown glass
Natural HDPE plastics (marked with a #2 on the bottom of the container)
Colored HDPE plastics (marked with a #1 on the bottom of the container)
Corrugated cardboard boxes
Tin
Aluminum
Mixed office paper
Magazines

3. How to handle the recyclables.

Rinsed clean
Remove all lids and discard
No wax coated cardboard
Cans need to have labels removed
Ad inserts from the newspaper should be kept with magazines
Please remove paper clips, rubber bands, staples, tape adhesive labels, plastic tabs and plastic or wire spirals.

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1. Rate Determination

Sewer rates for City of St. Joseph and for its contract Sewer District customers are approved by City Council based on an annual Cost of Service Rate Study conducted by an outside engineering firm. Rate changes (if applicable) generally go into effect July 1st annually.

Sewer customers in Sewer Districts outside the City limits are billed a different rate than City residents.

Country Club Village residential accounts are billed and collected by the City of St. Joseph. Rates are determined by Country Club Village Board of Aldermen.

2. How are the monthly sewer bills determined?

Residential charges are calculated on an average use (units) obtained for the periods ending January, February and March annually. This “winter average” amount takes effect with the April billing cycle. If a customer is not at a residence during the period this average is determined, they will be billed a default of five (5) units until a history of 60-90 days is obtained. Adjustments may be made retroactively if the historic usage is shown to be less than the winter average.

Commercial and industrial charges are based upon actual usage monthly.

Sewer surcharge customers are billed monthly separately based on actual usage, along with surcharges for Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Suspended Solids (SS) and Fats, Oils & Grease (FOG). Wholesale customers are billed at the wholesale rates.

Missouri American Water provides weekly file downloads into the City billing software. The goal of the City’s Utility Billing Division is to get bills out within five (5) business days of each download.

3. How can sewer bills be paid?

Payments may be made by the following:
1) Mail payments to the City P.O. Box using the envelope and payment coupon provided in each invoice;
2) Call the automated processing telephone line (IVR) at (816) 558-6894.
3) Pay online via the City’s website www.stjoemo.info. Click on the Online Payments button;
4) Auto debit – provide the City with a copy of your banking information. The amount due will be debited to the account on the due date;
5) Recurring online payment – sign up online to have the amount due automatically debited to your bank account or credit card on the due date monthly.
6) Use one of the payment centers currently located at the following locations:
• Hy-Vee #1552 201 N. Belt Highway
• Green Hills South 7014 King Hill Avenue
• Ray’s Green Hills 3225 N. Belt Highway
• Roger’s Green Hills 1004 5th Avenue
• Green Hills 205 W. Main (Savannah, MO)
(A site processing fee of $1.50 is added to each payment by the vendor.)
7) Pay in person at City Hall, 1100 Frederick Ave, Room 101A or use the payment drop box on the Frederick side of building.

4. How will overdue accounts be handled?

1) Accounts more than 30 days past due date will receive a Notice, indicating the amount due, plus penalties and interest, and the new due date.
2) Due dates are 25 days after the statement date. Funds received after the due date will be assessed a 10% penalty. An additional 1% penalty also added for each 30 day period thereafter.
3) Accounts more than 60 days overdue may be handed over to the City’s contracted Collection Agency.
4) Prior balances with Missouri American, as they have been transferred to the City, will be collected separately.

5. How do I change, initiate or cancel my sewer service?

Sewer accounts remain in the same account name and service dates as water services. Please contact Missouri American Water at (866) 430-0820 to change service information.

6. Can my due date be changed?

Due dates are set by City Code Section 29-245 of the City Code of Ordinances. Due dates are 25 days from the billing date and not changed upon request.

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1. You plowed the street two blocks away from me, whey didn’t you plow my street?

Please be patient. The snow removal plan is based on a system of routes. Each route is designed to get you closer to your home. After emergency and secondary routes are plowed, your home should be within 2 to 3 blocks of a plowed street.

2. Why did you plow the snow to my curb where I park?

When snow is plowed, it is plowed from the center of the street to both sides of the street. Unfortunately, when snow is plowed, it has to go somewhere. Crews try to get the snow as far to the roadside as possible, but inadvertently the windrow will still interfere with parking.

3. You plowed my driveway full of snow!

It seems like it happens every time. By the time crews can complete emergency and secondary routes and start in the districts, most property owners have already cleared their driveways. Here comes the plow... and pushes snow back into the entrance of your nice, clean driveway. We appreciate your diligence and hard work, and offer this helpful hint when clearing your driveway. Clear an area prior to your driveway so that when the plows come, they will not push any snow back into your driveway, helping them and you.
View Diagram

4. Why don’t you plow every time it snows like the state does?

Unlike the state highways, city streets have numerous obstacles which can damage plows, such as manholes, water and gas valves, and curbs. For this reason, plows are set about an inch above the pavement, and is why crews don’t plow until 2+ inches of snow has fallen with more expected. The state is responsible for plowing the Belt Highway, 36 Highway, and Frederick east of the Belt Highway.

5. I’ve lived here for 40 years and you’ve never plowed my street.

Crews plow more than 6,400 street sections during a storm clean-up. All of the streets on each route are checked to ensure every street in the city is cleared. There is, however, a chance that a street was missed while plowing. If your street was missed, we apologize and ask that you please call 271-4848 to report it.

6. How can I get a salt barrel for my neighborhood?

We have approximately 110 self-help salt barrels, located at strategic locations around the city. These are for street use only to aid motorists if they become stuck. We try to keep these locations at the current number, however, the barrels do get moved occasionally. Please call 217-4848 if you would like to get on the list of new locations.

7. Why did you tow my car?

During Phase II of the Emergency Snow Ordinance, vehicles are restricted from parking on Emergency Snow Routes and are subject to ticketing and towing. If your vehicle was towed, you were parked illegally.

8. My wife is pregnant and you haven’t salted my street yet, what if she needs an ambulance?

If a citizen needs an ambulance and it has difficulties getting to the location, the ambulance dispatcher will call the street division, who will send a vehicle to assist the ambulance in getting to the scene and then to the hospital.

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1. Where can I purchase a culvert pipe to go across my driveway?

The Street Division will sell you a culvert pipe for the same prices the city pays for it. They will also remove the old pipe, discard it, clean your ditch, and place the new pipe with an aggregate cover at no cost to the property owner. Call 816-271-4848 and ask for the field supervisor.

2. My street was resurfaced just 5 years ago. There is nothing wrong with it. Why are you closing it to put a Micro Seal on it?

You are right! Your street has no problems and we want to keep it that way. If you are going to be out in the sun for any length of time, you put on sunscreen to protect your skin from being damaged. Like your skin, the sun, and wind can damage an asphalt pavement by oxidizing (drying out) the pavement. That’s why the pavement color begins to lighten after a couple of years. Micro Seal will not only protect the pavement from the environment, but will also provide a new wearing surface for traffic. Remember that a dollar spent now, will prevent us from having to spend ten dollars down the road.

3. My street looks like it needs to be resurfaced. How can I find out if it is on the list to be done?

The Street Division maintains the pavement management program, which covers every City maintained street in St Joseph. Each section of street in St Joseph is inspected and given a pavement condition rating. Once the all inspections are made, a work program is created using the information obtained during the inspections. 95% of the Street Divisions annual maintenance and preventive maintenance is done from this program. If you are interested in finding out what is planned for your street, call 271-4848.

4. My alley is full of ruts from the heavy rains. It needs to be graveled. Will the City furnish the gravel it needs?

The Street Division does not provide materials such as gravel for alleys. However, if you call the Street Division at 271-4848, a supervisor will come out and give you a material estimate and the cost for the material. If you purchase the material from one of the local quarries, the Street Division will prepare the alley surface, haul, spread and compact the gravel at no cost to the property owner.

5. During the storm last night, I had a limb blow down in my yard. I cut it up and placed it on the curb. Will the Street Division pick it up for me?

The Street Division will pick up what has fallen in the street. The tree or limb will be cut off at the curb or ditch line. The rest of the tree or limb is the property owner’s responsibility to dispose of. Only when widespread damage occurs and only at the direction of the City Manager, the Street Division may pick up trees and brush from yards if they were placed at the curb.

6. The curb and gutter in front of my house is full of leaves and grass clippings. I called the Street Division over a month ago. Why won’t they come out when I call and sweep the street?

Ordinances state that the property owners are responsible for keeping the curb and gutter in front of the property free of leaves and other debris. The Street Division does sweep and flush streets as a public service. We do this using district sweeper routes. There are sweeper routes for all 9 work districts. These are generally swept twice annually. Eventually, we will get to your street. If you call 271-4848 and ask for the Street Cleaning Supervisor, he’ll let you know what district you are in and how long it will be before the sweeper reaches you.

7. My first question is how long is the street repair list? The second question is whom do I have to know to get my street fixed?

When you called in about your street, a supervisor will check the condition. It was found that the pavement does have a lot of cracks. The street, although not pretty, is not a hazard to traffic or pedestrians. This makes it a low priority. There are 77.75 miles of concrete streets in St Joseph. 48.59 miles of these streets need to be either repaired or reconstructed. The answer to your second questions is: you don’t have to know anyone. Your street is as important to us as any other street. Our problem is we have only one 5-man crew that works year around on concrete reconstruction. During the four months of fall and winter, we add two additional crews to make repairs. The number of streets in need of repairs and the number of personnel we have is the deciding factor. We have to prioritize our work by condition. A pavement that is a hazard to the public takes a higher priority.

8. I need to have warning signs to slow down traffic for children. Will the City put them up?

No. This decision is based on a national study, which shows this type of signage gives a false sense of security, which can actually lead to more problems. However, you can purchase the signs from a dealer and place them yourself. There are two things you must do to place them. 1)You should call for utility locates at 1-800-344-7483. 2) You must place the sign on private property off the right-of-way. You can call 271-4848 for right-of-way location.

9. I hit a hole on a railroad crossing. Is the Street Division responsible for patching it?

The Street Division does not maintain railroad crossings. If you call 271-4848 and tell us the location, we will call the railroad that is responsible.

10. I understand the City has a curb and sidewalk program, but I don’t know whom to call to find out about it?

Call 271-4848. We can transfer you to the right person.

11. When I stop at an intersection with traffic signals, why don't I get a green light every time they change?

The signals are activated by an underground loop. The vehicle must cross the loop for the detector to acknowledge a vehicle is there. The white "Stop Bars" painted on the street are the visual point where the vehicle needs to stop to activate the signals. The bar is 2 feet wide and runs from the curb to the centerline of the street. The front bumper of the vehicle needs to be at this bar when stopped for a red light.

12. How do I report a malfunction of a traffic signal?

Call the City Yards at 271-4848. The phones are answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There is a signal technician on standby at all times to respond to these reports.

13. How do I get a permit to close a street, sidewalk, or get a dumpster?

Call the City Yards at 271-4848. We will need the location, reason for the request, a starting and ending date, and the company doing the work along with a 24-hour phone number for a contact person doing the work.

Any closure will require proper signing and barricading. Traffic Control Plans will be drawn up for the closure. Because of the increasing requests for seasonal work, 24-hour to 48-hour advanced notice should be given to allow for inspecting the area and drawing up the plans.

14. In a 2 Hour Block Zone, if I park on one side of the street can I move my vehicle to the other side of the street and start my 2 hours over again?

No, the 2 hour block zone is for the whole block both sides of the street. You have to move to a completely new block to start the 2 hours over.

15. If I receive a parking ticket and don't agree with it what can I do?

At any time a parking ticket is issued and the driver of the vehicle is in disagreement with validity of the violation, they should contact the Financial Service Department at 271-4760 or click here for a "Request for Dismissal" form. The customer complaint is forwarded to the Parking Supervisor and investigated. The form is then forwarded to the City Prosecutor for his or her decision on the ticket. At that time, the person who received the ticket is notified whether the City Prosecutor had dismissed the ticket or not. If the ticket was not dismissed, a "Request for Trial in Municipal Court" can be filled out.

16. Who is responsible for cleaning dirty inlets?

The Sewer Maintenance division cleans inlets as soon as possible after they receive a complaint. This scheduling depends on other priorities such as sewer back-ups and cave-ins that may occur.

17. What is your crew doing in our neighborhood?

There may be many reasons Sewer Maintenance trucks are in your neighborhood. They may be there for a mainline sewer back up, they may be checking the main line with a TV System, reconstructing or cleaning an inlet, or answering a Citizen concern.