Settling into St. Clair Shores should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Whether you just closed or you’re counting down to move‑in day, a few quick steps will save you time and stress. This guide gives you the exact contacts, timelines, and local rules you need for utilities, permits, and park access. Let’s dive in.
Start utilities early
Electricity and natural gas
Plan to start or transfer service 7 to 14 days before move‑in. Electric service is through DTE for most addresses, and natural gas is commonly through Consumers Energy. Use the providers’ online tools to schedule a start or transfer and confirm any ID or deposit requirements. For details, check DTE’s guidance for service setup and Consumers Energy’s start, stop, and transfer page.
- DTE: electric service guidance
- Consumers Energy: start/stop/transfer service
Water and sewer billing
Water and sewer are managed by the City. Call the Tax & Water office at 586‑447‑3317 to open or transfer your account, confirm the billing cycle, and ask about final bill procedures at closing. You can also review the city’s overview here: Tax & Water Department.
Trash, recycling, and yard waste
St. Clair Shores partners with Priority Waste for curbside service. Confirm your pickup day, request a cart if needed, and ask about rules for bulk items and holiday schedules. Report any missed pickups directly to Priority Waste customer service.
- Priority Waste: St. Clair Shores service page
Internet, cable, and phone
Availability varies by address, so check at least one to two weeks before move‑in. Major providers include Xfinity, AT&T, and regional options. Use their availability tools and schedule installation so it lands close to your closing or move‑in date.
Stormwater utility fee
The City administers a stormwater utility based on impervious area. Check whether this fee appears on your water or tax bill and review how credits or appeals work using the city’s guidance: Stormwater Utility.
Permits and inspections
Who issues permits
The Building Department (Community Development & Inspections) issues permits and schedules inspections for building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, fences, driveways, pools, and more. Contact 586‑447‑3340 during office hours, Monday to Friday, 8:00 to 4:30. Start here: Building Department.
Projects that typically need a permit
Common items include HVAC or water heater replacement, electrical panel upgrades, roofing (depending on scope), fences, driveway aprons and curb cuts, pools, decks, additions, major plumbing, and demolition. If you hire contractors, they usually pull permits, but verify this in writing. Plan for required inspections such as rough‑in and final.
How to apply and timing
Complete the relevant application, submit to the Building Department, pay fees, then schedule inspections. Allow extra time for any work that involves plan review or public right‑of‑way (driveways, curb cuts, sidewalks). For right‑of‑way coordination and restoration requirements, contact Public Works (DPW).
Before you dig
Michigan law requires underground utility locates before you dig. Call 811 at least three business days before any excavation for projects like fences, decks, pools, or major landscaping. Learn the process here: MISS DIG 811 locate request.
Rentals and inspections
If you are buying or selling a rental property, confirm licensing and inspection requirements with the Building Department. The city administers rental programs and may require inspections or certificates before leasing or at transfer.
Overnight parking permits
Overnight street parking is restricted from 3 to 5 a.m. without a permit. Annual on‑street permits are available and include a $20 processing cost. Review current rules here: On‑Street Parking Permits.
Parks, passes, and local recreation
Resident park passes
Three waterfront parks require a resident pass for entry: Blossom Heath Park & Pier, Veterans Memorial Park, and Lac Sainte Clair Park. Passes are required May 1 through October 31 and are now electronic. Pass options include Adult Family, Adult Single, Senior Family, and Senior Single. Purchase passes in person at Parks & Recreation with photo ID to verify residency. Details: Park Pass Information.
Boat ramps and ramp stickers
City boat ramps operate seasonally and use daily fees or a seasonal ramp sticker. To buy a sticker, bring valid photo ID and current boat registration with a Michigan MC number. The 9 Mile ramp is open to non‑residents, while other ramps are resident‑only unless noted. See current guidance: Boat Ramps.
Pavilion rentals and group permits
Hosting a gathering? Groups of 20 or more need a group park permit, and pavilions require a reservation. Fees and deposits vary by pavilion. Make reservations through Parks & Recreation.
New resident checklist
7–14 days before move‑in
- Start or transfer electricity and natural gas with DTE and Consumers Energy.
- Call Tax & Water at 586‑447‑3317 to open or transfer your water/sewer account and ask about final bills.
- Confirm trash and recycling service with Priority Waste; request carts if needed.
- Schedule internet and cable installation based on address availability.
If planning work at your home
- Ask the Building Department at 586‑447‑3340 if your project needs a permit, and how to schedule inspections.
- Coordinate driveway, curb, or sidewalk work with Public Works (DPW).
- Place a MISS DIG 811 locate at least three business days before any digging.
Parks and neighborhood life
- Buy or activate your electronic resident park pass at Parks & Recreation with photo ID.
- For boaters, bring boat registration and photo ID to purchase a ramp sticker.
- Reserve pavilions and request group permits for gatherings of 20 or more.
Ready to make your move smooth and simple? If you want local answers and a step‑by‑step plan for closing, possession, and move‑in, reach out to Kevin Paton. You’ll get clear guidance on utilities, permits, and neighborhood details so you can feel at home in St. Clair Shores from day one.
FAQs
How do final water bills work at closing in St. Clair Shores?
- The City’s Tax & Water office issues final bills tied to your closing date. Call 586‑447‑3317 for address‑specific steps and timing, then confirm how your purchase agreement allocates utilities between buyer and seller.
Who handles garbage and recycling carts in St. Clair Shores?
- Priority Waste manages residential service. The City provides guidance on cart options; call Priority Waste for delivery, swaps, or missed pickups, and check City resources for rules and schedule details.
Where can I confirm permit fees and timelines in St. Clair Shores?
- Contact the Building Department at 586‑447‑3340. Fees and plan review times can change, so verify the current schedule and processing steps before you apply.
What are the guest rules for resident park passes in St. Clair Shores?
- Park passes are non‑transferable. Resident passes include limited guest allowances, and non‑residents cannot purchase resident passes. Check current rules when you buy your pass.
Do I need an overnight parking permit in St. Clair Shores?
- Yes, if you plan to park on the street between 3 and 5 a.m. Apply for an on‑street parking permit and budget for a $20 processing cost.
Who do I contact for driveway or sidewalk work in St. Clair Shores?
- Start with the Building Department to confirm permits and inspections, then coordinate right‑of‑way or restoration details with Public Works (DPW).
