Missouri § 79.020 - City limits may be altered, how.
Full text of Missouri Revised Statutes of Missouri § 79.020 — City limits may be altered, how., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 79.020. City limits may be altered, how.
The mayor and board of aldermen of such city, whether the same shall have been incorporated before becoming a city of the fourth class or not, with the consent of a majority of the voters of such city voting on the question, shall have power to extend the limits of the city over territory adjacent thereto, and to diminish the limits of the city by excluding territory therefrom, and shall, in every case, have power, with the consent of the voters as aforesaid, to extend or diminish the city limits in such manner as in their judgment and discretion may redound to the benefit of the city.
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(RSMo 1939 § 7097, A. 1949 H.B. 2029, A.L. 1978 H.B. 971)
Prior revisions: 1929 § 6947; 1919 § 8398; 1909 § 9300
(1973) The term adjacent as used in this section clearly means that territory to be annexed must be either abutting and touching the annexing municipality or not have territory of the same kind intervening between it and the annexing municipality. City of St. Ann. v. Spanos (A.), 490 S.W.2d 563.
(1974) Parcels to be annexed must be adjacent to city but need not be adjacent to each other. City of St. Peters v. Kodner Development Corp. (A.), 509 S.W.2d 788.
---- end of effective 28 Aug 1978 ----
Source: official Missouri text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri § 79.020
What does Revised Statutes of Missouri § 79.020 cover?
Section 79.020 ("City limits may be altered, how.") is part of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, the codified statutory law of Missouri. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Missouri § 79.020?
A common citation format is "Revised Statutes of Missouri § 79.020" (Missouri). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Missouri law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Missouri official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Missouri attorney.
How does Missouri § 79.020 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Missouri can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Missouri.