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1. What is a special use permit?

In the City Code (Chapter 405), uses are permitted either 'by right' or by "special use permit". A special use is a use which may be appropriate in the district in which it is permitted, if it meets criteria outlined in chapter 405. Applications for special use permits include a site plan as an exhibit; the site plan includes the details of the existing or proposed building, parking, and related site improvements. 

2. When is special use permit approval required?

Special use permit approval is required for all uses listed as special use in each zoning district; the uses are particular to each district.

3. Who approves special use permits?

Special use permits are reviewed by the Planning Commission at public hearing. After review of the application and the public hearing, the Planning and Zoning Commission takes final action on the proposed use.

4. How can the public comment on a Special Use Permit application?

Interested citizens can attend the public hearing at the Planning Commission to express their opinion about the proposed special use permit. Also, comments can be mailed or emailed to the Planning Department - these will be provided to the Commission and become part of the official record.

City Hall Address:
One St. Peters Centre Boulevard
St. Peters, MO 63376

Planning Department Email

5. What are the standards for approval of a special use permit?

The Planning Commission reviews the particular circumstances of the proposed special use permit in terms of the following standards:

1. The proposed special use complies with all applicable provisions of the St. Peters City Code, including intensity of use regulations, setback regulations and use limitations.
2. The proposed special use on the specified real property will contribute to and promote the general, welfare, health, safety and convenience of the public.
3. The location and size of the special use, the nature and intensity of the operation involved in or conducted in connection with it, and the location of the real property with respect to streets giving access to it are such that the special use will not adversely affect the immediate neighborhood so as to prevent development and use of neighboring property in accordance with the applicable zoning district regulations. In determining whether the special use will adversely affect the immediate neighborhood, consideration shall be given to:
   1. The location, nature and height of buildings, structures, walls and fences on the real property; and
   2. The nature and extent of proposed landscaping and screening on the real property.
4. Off-street parking and loading areas will be provided in accordance with the standards set forth in the St. Peters City Code.
5. Adequate utility, drainage and other such necessary facilities have been or will be provided on the real property.
6. Adequate access roads, entrances and exit drives shall be provided and shall be so designed to prevent traffic hazards and to minimize traffic congestion on public streets and alleys.
7. In considering applications for a special use permit, the Planning and Zoning Commission and Board of Aldermen shall require such conditions of use as either may deem necessary to protect the general welfare of the City and the surrounding real property and to achieve the objectives of this Chapter.
8. A time limitation may be imposed on the special uses identified in the district regulations contained in this Chapter. Said special use permit time limitations shall be renewable at the discretion of the Board of Aldermen after consideration of the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission.