FAQ

General Information

1. What is the population of St. Charles?
The population of St. Charles was 72,458 as of the 2024 census.

2. When was St. Charles founded?
St. Charles was founded circa 1769 by French-Canadian fur trader Louis Blanchette.

3. What is St. Charles known for?
St. Charles is known for its historic Main Street, being the starting point of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and serving as Missouri’s first state capital from 1821 to 1826.

Government and Services

1. How do I contact City Hall?
You can contact St. Charles City Hall at 636-949-3200 or visit their website at www.stcharlescitymo.gov.

2. How do I pay my utility bill?
You can pay your utility bill online, by mail, or in person at City Hall. You can pay your water/sewer utilities online or by calling 866-675-5526. For more information, contact the Finance Department at 636-949-3200.

4. What are the city’s drop box locations for payments?
By submitting check, money order or cashier’s check in the drop box inside the County Administration Building at 201 N. Second Street or at the drive-up drop box on the north side of Monroe Street near the corner of Second Street in St. Charles. Include remittance stub, if available, and account number on payment in an envelope. Do not place cash in the drop box. A payment placed in the outside St. Charles City drop box on Second Street could result in late payment penalties if it is not received by the Collector of Revenue by the due date. DO NOT use the County’s drop box for city-specific bills.

5. How do I report a concern or issue to the city?
You can report concerns through the city’s website or by contacting the appropriate department directly.

Residential Information

1. How do I apply for a building permit?
You can apply for a building permit through the Community Development Department’s Building Division.

2. What are the zoning regulations in St. Charles?
For zoning information, contact the Planning and Zoning Division at 636-949-7335 or visit their office at 201 N. Second St., Suite 420, St. Charles, MO 63301.

3. How do I start a business in St. Charles?
Before starting a business, contact the County Planning & Zoning Division and apply for a Business Occupancy Permit through the Building and Code Enforcement Division.

Recreation and Tourism

1. What public transportation options are available in St. Charles?
St. Charles has the Saint Charles Area Transit (SCAT) system, which consists of five bus routes serving various locations within the city and connecting to the Metrolink North Hanley Station.

2. Where can I find information about road construction and closures?
Check the Public Works Department section on the city website https://www.stcharlescitymo.gov/179/Public-Works for updates on road construction and closures.

2. What are some popular attractions in St. Charles?
Popular attractions include the historic Main Street, Katy Trail State Park, and various sites related to the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

3. Are there any special events held in St. Charles?
St. Charles hosts various events throughout the year. Check the city’s website https://www.stcharlescitymo.gov/1013/Events or contact the Convention & Visitors Bureau for a current events calendar.

4. Where can I find information about parks and recreation facilities?
Visit the Parks & Recreation Department section on the city website https://stcharlesparks.com/ for information about parks, facilities, and programs.

History and Culture

1. What is the significance of St. Charles in American history?
St. Charles played a crucial role in westward expansion, serving as the starting point for the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the home of Daniel Boone.

2. Is there a museum about St. Charles history?
Yes, there are multiple museums in St. Charles, including:

St. Charles History Museum

St. Charles County Heritage Museum

Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum

Frenchtown Heritage Museum & Research Center

O’Fallon Historical Society Log Cabin Museum

Weldon Spring Site Interpretive Center

Commemorative Air Force – Missouri Wing Museum

St. Charles County Veterans Museum

Education

1. What school districts serve St. Charles?
The school districts that serve St. Charles, Missouri include:

Francis Howell School District

Orchard Farm School District

St. Charles School District

Other nearby districts: Fort Zumwalt, Washington, Wentzville.

1. Are there any colleges or universities in St. Charles?
Yes, including:

Lindenwood University

St. Charles Community College

Webster University (St. Charles campus)

Emergency Services

1. How do I contact emergency services in St. Charles?
For emergencies, always dial 911.
Non-emergency contacts:

St. Charles Police Department: (636) 949-3300

St. Charles Crime Stoppers: (636) 949-3333

St. Charles Fire Department: (636) 949-3250

Cottleville Fire Protection District: (636) 447-6655

Central County Fire and Rescue: (636) 970-9700