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Frequently Asked Questions

The material in this question and answer series is for your information only. It is not legal advice and is not designed to be used in place of legal advice. You should consult your own attorney for legal advice. The St. Joseph Legal Department provides this series to provide a general summary of procedures concerning violations of city ordinances in the City of St. Joseph, Missouri. It is issued to inform generally, not to advise of specific rights. As with any general information, the answers given here may not specifically apply to you.
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.


Show All Answers

1. What is Planning & Zoning?
2. What applications & permits does Planning & Zoning administer?
3. What is a subdivision or plat?
4. What is the subdivision process or platting?
5. How Do I combine, split, or adjust my property lines?
6. Does the city provide surveying services?
7. What is zoning?
8. What is rezoning?
9. How do I find my property’s zoning?
10. What does zoning determine?
11. How do I get a fence permit and what are the city’s rules for fences?
12. How do I get a pool permit and what are the city’s rules for pools?
13. How do I get a garage/shed/etc. permitted?
14. How do I get a sign permit?
15. What is a site plan?
16. What is the Zoning Board of Adjustment?
17. What is a variance or exception?
18. What is the Planning Commission?
19. What is the Downtown Review Board?