Thinking about replacing an older Ladue house with a custom home? The idea is exciting, but the path from teardown to move‑in can feel complex. You want a smooth process, clear approvals, and a builder team you can trust. This guide breaks down Ladue‑specific permits, ARB review, environmental rules, utilities, and a realistic sequence so you can plan with confidence. Let’s dive in.
The Ladue path at a glance
- Confirm zoning, setbacks, and subdivision trustee needs.
- Line up environmental checks (asbestos, lead) and utility disconnects.
- Apply for the Ladue demolition permit and prepare site controls.
- Submit your new home design to the Architectural Review Board (ARB).
- Secure the building permit and coordinate MSD sewer work.
- Demolish, stabilize the site, then begin construction.
Permits you need in Ladue
Demolition permit
You must obtain a demolition permit through the City of Ladue Building Department. Expect to submit proof of ownership, contractor information, photos, and any required environmental documentation. Use the city’s permits page to access applications and contact the permit counter for current requirements. Visit the City of Ladue’s permits page for forms and guidance.
- Start here: the City’s permits and applications are listed on the Ladue permits page. City of Ladue permits and Building Department
ARB approval for your new home
New construction that changes exterior appearance requires ARB review. The ARB evaluates style, scale, and how the home fits the context. Meeting dates and submission deadlines are posted by the city, so plan your design calendar around the ARB schedule. Architectural Review Board information and schedule
Building permit for a new residence
A building permit with plan sets is required for your new home. Ladue’s Building Permit Procedures outline submittals, inspections, and deposits or fees. Large projects will go through plan review and multiple inspections. Building Permit Procedures
Other likely city permits
Depending on scope, you may also need land disturbance or grading permits, right‑of‑way or excavation permits, a floodplain development permit if applicable, and tree removal permits. Submit erosion control plans before heavy site work begins. Ladue permits and applications
Environmental rules to follow
Asbestos inspection and notification
Missouri DNR requires an asbestos inspection for demolition or renovation that could disturb regulated materials. If regulated asbestos is present above thresholds, a Missouri‑registered abatement contractor must remove it and you must file a DNR notification at least 10 working days before demolition. A demolition notice is required even if no asbestos is found. Missouri DNR asbestos guidance (PUB2157)
Lead‑safe practices for pre‑1978 homes
If the structure was built before 1978, work that disturbs painted surfaces may be subject to EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting rule. Confirm that your contractors are certified and follow lead‑safe work practices. EPA RRP program overview
Waste handling and recycling
Demolition debris must be handled and disposed of per state and local rules, with special handling for certain materials. Require your contractor to follow the DNR demolition checklist and provide disposal documentation. DNR demolition project checklist
Utilities and site prep
Utility disconnects and 811 locates
Before Ladue issues a demolition permit, plan for utility disconnections and written release letters from electric, gas, and water providers. Also call Missouri One Call at 811 for underground locates before any digging. 811 and regional excavation guidance
Sewer and water coordination
If you will abandon an old sewer or connect a new line, MSD permits and fees apply. MSD requires a licensed drain layer for public sewer connections and lists connection and permit fees, plus a potential tap fee if no existing wye is present. MSD Project Clear customer and permit info
Erosion control and stormwater
Ladue requires proper erosion and sediment controls for land disturbance and grading. Provide silt fencing, a stabilized construction entrance, and temporary stabilization as required by the city and MSD. Ladue permits and land disturbance
Tree protection and removal permits
Ladue requires tree removal permits for protected trees and lists permit types and fees on its site. If demolition access or grading affects mature trees, include protection or replacement plans. City of Ladue FAQs on tree removal
Site security and public protection
Expect temporary fencing, dust control, noise limits, and traffic management. A pre‑site inspection may be required before demolition. Follow Ladue’s right‑of‑way restoration requirements when work touches public streets. Ladue permits and right‑of‑way info
Design and zoning limits
Zoning, setbacks, and lot coverage
Your design must comply with Ladue’s zoning ordinance, including setbacks, height, lot coverage, and landscape requirements. Some subdivisions also require trustee approvals. Confirm site constraints early so your architect designs within them. Building Permit Procedures
Plan for ARB feedback
The ARB focuses on exterior materials, rooflines, window patterns, and landscaping. Build in time for potential revisions and coordinate with city staff before formal submission to keep your review on track. ARB process and schedule
Timeline and budget basics
Key lead times
- Asbestos: if regulated asbestos is present, file the DNR notification at least 10 working days before demolition. DNR asbestos guidance
- ARB: meetings run on a posted schedule with submission deadlines. Turn in complete plans to avoid delays. ARB schedule
Fees and deposits
Ladue’s building permit procedures reference a deposit for building permits, and the city posts current fees on its site. For sewer, MSD lists a single‑family connection fee around 1,126 dollars, a 75 dollar permit fee, and a potential tap fee if no existing wye is present. Always confirm current numbers with the agencies before finalizing your budget. Building Permit Procedures | MSD fee and permit guidance
Typical sequence
- Pre‑design: confirm zoning limits and trustee inputs, develop concepts with your architect.
- Environmental: order asbestos inspection and plan any required abatement, confirm lead‑safe practices as needed.
- Utilities: schedule electric, gas, and water disconnects, and call 811 for locates.
- Permitting: apply for the demolition permit; submit ARB package for the new home.
- Demolition: complete demo, backfill, and stabilize the site.
- New build: secure the building permit, coordinate MSD connections, and begin construction.
Choose the right team
- Vet demolition and general contractors with recent local experience.
- Verify local registrations, required trade licenses, and insurance.
- Request references, written scopes, cleanup and disposal plans, and a clear schedule.
- For sewer work, confirm your contractor uses a licensed drain layer per MSD requirements. MSD customer and permit info
Ladue demo and new build checklist
- Contact Ladue’s Building Department for current forms, fees, and a permit intake plan. Permits and Building Department
- Order an asbestos inspection and be ready to file the DNR 10‑working‑day notification if required. DNR asbestos guidance
- For pre‑1978 homes, confirm contractors meet EPA RRP requirements. EPA RRP overview
- Call 811 for locates and schedule electric, gas, and water disconnects with release letters. 811 and excavation guidance
- Determine if tree removal permits are needed and set up tree protection. Ladue FAQs on tree removal
- Prepare and submit your ARB package with site, exterior, and landscape details. ARB page
- Coordinate MSD for sewer abandonment or new connections and confirm fees. MSD customer and permit info
Ready to go from demo to dream in Ladue with fewer surprises? If you want a local plan, introductions to trusted partners, and steady guidance from first look to final punch list, reach out to Jason D Cooper.
FAQs
What permits do I need to demolish a house in Ladue?
- You will apply for a Ladue demolition permit through the Building Department, and you may also need land disturbance, right‑of‑way, and tree removal permits depending on scope. Ladue permits page
How does ARB review affect my new home design in Ladue?
- The ARB reviews exterior design for style, scale, and neighborhood context; meeting dates and deadlines are posted, and you should plan for potential revisions before a building permit is issued. ARB info and schedule
Do I need asbestos or lead testing before demolition in Ladue?
- Yes, an asbestos inspection is required and a DNR demolition notice may be required at least 10 working days before work; for pre‑1978 homes, EPA lead‑safe rules may apply. DNR asbestos guidance | EPA RRP overview
Who handles sewer connections for my new Ladue home?
- MSD permits are required and a licensed drain layer must perform public sewer connections, with connection and permit fees that you should confirm before budgeting. MSD customer and permit info
Can I demolish now and build later in Ladue?
- Many municipalities require demolition sites to be backfilled, graded, and stabilized if no immediate construction follows, so check Ladue’s policies before sequencing your project. Regional context on restoration expectations
When should I call 811 before excavation in Ladue?
- Call Missouri One Call at 811 before any digging so underground utilities can be located and marked for safe demolition or site work. 811 and excavation guidance
