Local laws and regulations in Missouri: State income tax rates. Sales tax variations. Property tax rates. Vehicle registration requirements. Business licensing processes. Tenant rights and responsibilities. Gun ownership laws. Alcohol sale restrictions. School attendance requirements. Zoning and land use rules.
State income tax rates
Missouri has a progressive income tax structure with rates ranging from 0% to 5.4% for the 2023 tax year, and the top rate is scheduled to drop to 4.8% in 2024. The tax brackets are based on Missouri taxable income, with increasing percentages applied as income exceeds specific thresholds. For more detailed information about the tax rates and brackets, you can visit the Missouri Income Tax Rate page on the H&R Block website.
Sales tax variations
In Missouri, the sales tax rate varies from 4.225% to 10.1%, with a base state rate of 4.225% and additional local rates up to 5.875%, depending on the jurisdiction. This makes the total tax rate differ significantly across different locations within the state. For more detailed information, you can refer to the Missouri Sales Tax Guide which provides comprehensive insights into how these rates are applied depending on local regulations.
Property tax rates
In Missouri, property tax rates vary by location and are determined by local political subdivisions. For example, in the City of St. Louis, the 2023 tax rate was $7.9593 per $100 of assessed value, distributed among various districts such as schools, the city, and special services. For more detailed information on how these rates are allocated and updated, you can visit the official City of St. Louis website. This resource provides comprehensive data regarding the breakdown and specifics of tax assessments within the city.
Vehicle registration requirements
To register a vehicle in Missouri, you must provide a paid Personal Property Tax receipt or a Property Tax waiver, the vehicle's title, a recent safety and emissions inspection, proof of car insurance, and proper identification. You can register your vehicle at any Missouri Department of Revenue DMV office or online if eligible.
Business licensing processes
In Missouri, business licensing involves several key steps, including registering with the Missouri Secretary of State, obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN), registering for state taxes, and acquiring local and industry-specific licenses and permits. It's important to note that there is no general statewide business license, but local and occupational licenses may be required. For detailed guidance on how to properly register your business, you can visit the MO SourceLink website.
Tenant rights and responsibilities
In Missouri, tenants have the right to a safe, sanitary, and livable home, protection from utility shut-offs and retaliation, and respect for their privacy. They are responsible for paying rent on time, maintaining the property, and allowing reasonable access for repairs, among other obligations. For more detailed information on these rights and responsibilities, you can visit the Missouri Landlord Tenant Law website.
Gun ownership laws
In Missouri, there are no state licensing requirements for possessing rifles, shotguns, or handguns, granting residents significant freedom regarding firearm ownership. The state allows permitless carry for individuals 19 years or older—18 if they are military members or honorably discharged—eliminating the need for a concealed carry permit under these conditions. Moreover, there are no background checks or registration requirements for [private gun sales](https://www.nraila.org/gun-laws/state-gun-laws/missouri/), although federal laws still apply to regulate such transactions. While local authorities have the power to regulate carrying firearms in specific locations, certain prohibitions remain in place for convicted felons, those with mental disorders, and certain types of firearms like machine guns and short-barrel rifles, ensuring some level of control over firearm access within the state.
Alcohol sale restrictions
In Missouri, alcohol can be sold from 6 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. daily, including Sundays, with specific regulations for to-go alcohol sales and requirements for licenses and sales near schools or churches. For more detailed information and updates on these regulations, the Missouri Department of Public Safety's Alcohol and Tobacco Control is a crucial resource. Understanding these guidelines is essential for businesses and individuals to ensure compliance with state laws.
School attendance requirements
In Missouri, children between the ages of 7 and 17, or until they complete 16 credits towards high school graduation, must be enrolled in and regularly attend a public, private, parochial, home school, or a combination of schools for the full term of the school year. Parents or guardians are responsible for ensuring their child's regular attendance, and students under 7 years old who are enrolled must also attend regularly if enrolled. For more details on these regulations, you can visit the [Frequently Asked Questions and Educational Topics](https://dese.mo.gov/communications/frequently-asked-questions-and-educational-topics) on the official website.
Zoning and land use rules
In Missouri, zoning and land use rules are governed by a hierarchy that includes a Comprehensive Plan/Land Use Plan, Zoning Plan, Subdivision Regulations, and Building Codes, with local authorities mandated to conform to state statutes such as Chapters 64 and 89 of the Missouri Revised Statutes. For further detailed insight into the structure and requirements of these rules, the Hierarchy of Land Use Laws offers a comprehensive overview on how local governance aligns with state mandates to ensure orderly development and land use management.