New Construction
Obtaining a building permit in the City of Odessa is a step-by-step process designed to ensure projects meet all zoning, safety, and construction standards.
Below is an overview of what to expect:
Step 1: Submit Your Application
Submit a completed Building Permit Application and email it to the Community Development Coordinator @ Jenny.Neel@cityofodessamo.com, along with a full set of building plans. Plans must include a site plan showing lot dimensions (per recorded plat), size, shape, and the location of all existing and proposed structures.
Applications are available online or in person at City Hall.
Step 2: Site Plan Review (By Engineers)
Site plans are reviewed by the City’s engineers to ensure compliance with City standards and infrastructure requirements.
⏱ Estimated review time: 2–4 weeks, depending on project size and staff capacity.
Step 3: Building Plan Review (IBTS)
Plans are reviewed by the Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) to ensure compliance with applicable building codes.
⏱ Estimated review time: 2–4 weeks, depending on project size and staff capacity.
Step 4: City Public Works Review
Each City utility department reviews the plans to confirm compatibility with public infrastructure.
⏱ Estimated review time: 1–2 weeks.
Step 5: DNR Review (If Applicable)
Projects disturbing more than one acre of land require review by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for a Land Disturbance Permit.
⏱ Timeline is subject to DNR review schedules.
Step 6: MoDOT Review (If Applicable)
Required only if the property is adjacent to a MoDOT right-of-way. MoDOT reviews proposed access and egress points.
⏱ Timeline is subject to MoDOT review schedules.
Step 7: Permit Issuance
Once all plan reviews have been approved and required fees have been paid, the building permit will be officially issued. Construction my NOT begin until the permit has been issued.
Step 8: Inspections
Inspections are conducted by IBTS throughout construction and must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. Inspections are required for each phase listed under “Schedule a Building Inspection”
Step 9: Certificate of Occupancy
A Temporary Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Occupancy is issued once all requirements are met. This is the final step before occupancy.
Site / Plot Plan Requirements
A Site Plan is required for all building permits. For residential construction, plans must be prepared by a registered design professional. Plans must be clear, accurate, and detailed enough to verify compliance with all zoning and building codes.
Your site plan must include:
North arrow and drawing scale
All easements with dimensions
Required building setback lines
Property location (address or legal description)
Locations of all existing buildings and structures
Proposed use of the property
Stormwater management method
Proposed water and sewer tap locations
Commercial site plans must include the seal of a registered engineer.
Building / Construction Plan Requirements
Building or construction plans are required for all livable dwellings.
• Commercial and multi-family projects must include the seal of a Missouri-registered engineer or architect.
