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Opening a New Business

Opening a Business in Ladue
Welcome to the City of Ladue! 

To begin, download the New Business packet below. 

New Business Packet

All new businesses must complete the following steps prior to opening and operation in the City:

Opening a Business:  Step by Step
  1. Complete and submit Zoning Application before you sign a lease. The City Planner will review your application to make sure the business you plan to open is a permitted use for the location you are considering.  Your use may require a special use permit which must be approved by the Planning & Zoning Commission and by the Ladue City Council.  We will assist you with this part of the process.
  2. Once your business has zoning approval, you may obtain permits for any Interior Remodeling, Signage, etc. If no work is being done on your space, you can proceed with submitting the Application for Occupancy (found in packet) and payment. To schedule your Occupancy Inspection call the Building Department  at 314-997-6308. 48-hours advanced notice is needed.  
  3. Submit appropriate Business License application and payment for license. Once both payment and paperwork is received you will be issued your Business License. You may print the appropriate license application from the list below.
ALARM SYSTEM: If you are installing an alarm system or using an existing alarm system, a  permit will be required. Click the link to be redirected to the Alarm Permit page to apply and pay. → Alarm Systems
EXTERIOR SIGNAGE:  All signage requires a Sign Permit and must be reviewed by the City Planning  Consultant.  Applications must be submitted to the Ladue Building Office. This includes awnings with lettering or logo are considered a sign.

If you have not already done so, your business must be registered with the State of Missouri. You will be required to have a federal and state sales tax ID number for a retail business license. For more information you may visit https://dor.mo.gov/taxation/business/. 

Food service businesses will need to provide proof of a satisfactory Health Department Inspection Report through St. Louis County Department of Health. https://stlouiscountymo.gov/st-louis-county-departments/public-health/food-and-restaurants/

Business Licenses are to be renewed and paid each year. Notices of renewal are sent out the first week of January for the applicable year and payment is due no later than March 1. 

Questions?

Contact the Finance Department at [email protected] or 314-993-3439.