Occupancy Program

This program is designed to promote and to protect the public health, safety, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the people in all existing rental and/or leased residential structures.  Effective date Rental Occupancy Inspection 01/01/98 and Sale Occupancy Inspection 01/01/99.

The program establishes minimum requirements for light, ventilation, space, heating, sanitation, protection from the elements, life safety, safety from fire and other hazards, and for safe and sanitary maintenance. It also fixes the responsibility of owners, operators and occupants; regulating the occupancy of existing structures and premises, and providing for administration, enforcement and penalties for the unincorporated areas of the St. Clair County.

Program Questions

This program shall not apply to commercial structures unless they contain residential uses.

When is an occupancy inspection requested?

Upon change of occupancy whether rental, leased or purchase of residential property.

Who is responsible for requesting occupancy inspection?

Owner or agent of property.

How long is an occupancy good?

An occupancy inspection shall be valid for a period of one (1) year.  The dwelling unit does not have to be reinspected during that period, even if the occupancy changes.

What is a temporary occupancy permit?

The temporary permit shall require the owner/agent to place all utilities in the owner/agent name and assume financial responsibility for all such utilities. The temporary permit shall not authorize any person to occupy the premises. A temporary permit shall expire upon the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the premises.

Who can apply for a temporary occupancy permit?

Owner or agent of property must apply for in person at: County Court House, 10 Public Square, 5th Floor, Belleville Illinois.

Who can apply for an occupancy permit?

It shall be the responsibility of the tenant/occupant to apply for certificate of occupancy after occupancy inspection has been approved.

What is required to apply for an occupancy permit?

One of the following documents: Lease, rent receipt with photo ID or sales contract.  There is also a $35 fee that is due at time of obtaining occupancy permit.

Program Fees


Fees related to occupancy inspections and occupancy permits?

$75.00 - Apartments
$100.00 - Manufactured/Mobile Home
$100.00 – Duplexes and Condos
$125.00 - Single Family Residence
$50.00 – Re-inspection / No Access
$35.00 - Occupancy Permit
$25 - Occupancy Permit Amended
Exempt - Temporary Occupancy Permit

Fees must be paid prior to receiving a approved inspection report.

Method of payment cash or check payable to: St. Clair County Treasurer