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Carport & Garage Permits in KY: The Ultimate Guide
Thinking about adding a carport or garage in Kentucky? Before you break ground, it’s critical to understand the permit process that can make or break your project. Kentucky’s rules can vary by county and city, and missing a required permit can lead to costly fines, delays, or even forced removal of your structure. In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about carport and garage permits in KY so you can plan with confidence, stay compliant, and build the right way from day one.
Do I Need a Permit to Build a Garage in Kentucky?
Yes, in most areas of Kentucky, you need a permit to build a garage or a carport because both are generally treated as accessory structures or new construction. Approval is usually required from a local building department or, in some cases, the state. Although some jurisdictions may exempt very small, one-story detached sheds under 120 square feet, garages and carports typically require permits, along with submitted building plans, a site survey, and inspections for items such as the foundation and structural framing.
Because regulations can vary by city and county, it is strongly recommended that you contact your local zoning office or city or county building inspector before beginning construction.
Do I Need a Permit to Build a Carport in Kentucky?
Yes, in Kentucky, you will usually need a permit to construct a carport because many local authorities consider it an accessory structure or a property addition. Permits are used to verify that the carport follows zoning laws, setback rules, and structural safety requirements. In most cases, any permanent structure is subject to these regulations, though smaller or temporary carports may be allowed without a permit if they meet certain size limits.
What Happens if You Build a Garage Without a Permit in Kentucky?
Building a garage in Kentucky without the required permit can result in serious consequences. These may include fines of up to $500, additional daily fines until the issue is resolved, stop work notices, and even orders to remove the garage entirely. In many cases, local officials will require an inspection of the structure, which can lead to expensive repairs or complete demolition if it does not comply with building and safety codes.
Garage Permit Requirements for Cities in KY
To identify the correct city office, review the table below and find the listing for your location. Permit requirements are typically handled at the city or town level, so checking directly with local officials is recommended unless you are located in an unincorporated area where county oversight may apply. Please note that the listed cities are provided for informational purposes only, as we do not provide services in every area shown. Check out our service area page to see our locations.
| Ashland | Building Inspection |
| Bowling Green | Building Division |
| Cave City | Planning & Zoning |
| Elizabethtown | Planning & Development |
| Erlanger | Building & Zoning |
| Frankfort | Building & Construction |
| Franklin | Planning & Zoning |
| Glasgow | Building & Electrical Inspections |
| Georgetown | Building Inspection |
| Henderson | Building Codes & Permits |
| Horse Cave | Zoning |
| Hopkinsville | Code Enforcement |
| Independence | City Website |
| Jeffersontown | Building Department |
| Lexington | Building Permits |
| Louisville | Building Permits |
| Morgantown | Visit Butler County Website |
| Madisonville | Community Development & Construction |
| Russellville | Building & Zoning |
| Smiths Grove | Planning & Zoning |
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Ashland, Kentucky?
Yes, in Ashland, Kentucky, you typically need a building permit to put up a garage. The City of Ashland Building Inspection Division requires approval for new construction projects, building additions, and prefabricated structures that are 200 square feet or more. Permits are also required when a project includes new electrical or plumbing work.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Bowling Green, Kentucky?
Yes, a building permit is usually required for detached garages and other accessory structures in Bowling Green. Most structures must be permitted unless they qualify as small, temporary, detached storage buildings.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Cave City, Kentucky?
Yes, you typically need a permit to build a garage in Cave City, Kentucky. Local municipal codes require a building permit, and construction plans must meet the Kentucky Uniform State Building Code. Detached garages and other accessory structures usually require approval, with exemptions generally limited to very small, temporary sheds that fall below roughly 120 to 200 square feet.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Elizabethtown, Kentucky?
Yes, in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, a building permit is typically required for a detached garage or other accessory structure when it is larger than 200 square feet or built on a permanent foundation. The city requires permits for new construction, additions, and remodeling projects, all of which must be filed with the City of Elizabethtown Planning and Development Department.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Erlanger, Kentucky?
Yes, in Erlanger, Kentucky, a building permit is required for building, repairing, or remodeling any garage, whether attached or detached, within city limits under the city Code of Ordinances section 150.02. Permits are issued by the Erlanger Building and Zoning Administrator, and all projects must follow local zoning rules, including limits on placing accessory structures in front yards.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Frankfort, Kentucky?
Yes, a permit is usually required to build a garage in Frankfort, Kentucky. Smaller detached sheds under 200 square feet may only need a zoning permit, but larger structures, including most attached or detached garages, require a building permit issued by the Frankfort Planning and Community Development Department.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Franklin, Kentucky?
Yes, a building permit is likely required to build either a detached or attached garage in Franklin, Kentucky, since permits are needed for new construction, accessory structures, and structural changes. Small, single-story detached sheds that are roughly under 120 to 200 square feet may be exempt, but larger buildings or any structure that includes electrical or plumbing work will require a permit.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Glasgow, Kentucky?
Yes, a building permit is usually required to build a garage in Glasgow, Kentucky, since most construction projects must be approved to comply with state and local codes. Detached structures that exceed roughly 120 to 200 square feet typically require a permit, and the City of Glasgow also requires building and electrical permits for garages, including prefabricated structures.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Georgetown, Kentucky?
Yes, you’ll likely need a building permit for a garage in Georgetown, Kentucky, particularly when it is a permanent structure. Detached accessory buildings, such as garages or sheds, that are over 200 square feet generally require a permit, while one-story detached structures that are 200 square feet or smaller are often exempt.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Henderson, Kentucky?
Yes, a permit is typically required to build either a detached or attached garage in Henderson, Kentucky. The City of Henderson and the Henderson County Codes Department require permits for accessory structures like garages to confirm they meet zoning rules, setback requirements, and the Kentucky Building Code.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Horse Cave, Kentucky?
Yes, a building permit is usually required to construct a new garage or other detached accessory structure in Horse Cave, Kentucky. Most permanent new structures must be permitted, although some local regulations may exempt very small buildings, often around 120 to 200 square feet. For confirmation of the exact requirements, contact the City of Horse Cave Planning and Zoning Department.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Hopkinsville, Kentucky?
Yes, a building permit is generally required for a garage in the City of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, since permits are needed for new construction, such as accessory structures and residential additions, including detached garages and carports. Very small, non-permanent storage buildings, often smaller than about 12 feet by 18 feet, may be exempt, but you should confirm the details with Hopkinsville Code Enforcement.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Independence, Kentucky?
Yes, in Independence, Kentucky, building a new detached garage or other substantial accessory structure usually requires both a zoning permit and a building permit. These approvals are needed to confirm the project meets local zoning regulations, building codes, and safety standards. Small, temporary structures under 12 feet by 18 feet may be exempt, but it is best to confirm directly with the Kenton County Office of Planning and Development Services.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Jeffersontown, Kentucky?
Yes, a building permit is required for a new garage, additions, or major renovations in the City of Jeffersontown. City officials typically require a plot or site plan, construction drawings, and possible approvals from zoning and other agencies. Permits are required for detached garages, while very small sheds may be exempt depending on size and use. It is strongly recommended to contact the Jeffersontown Permits Department directly to confirm the exact requirements for your specific project.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Lexington, Kentucky?
Yes, in Lexington, Kentucky, a building permit is typically required for detached garages and other accessory structures, particularly when they exceed 12 feet by 18 feet, are built on a permanent foundation, or include utilities. A zoning compliance permit is also required for any new, relocated, or modified structures.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Louisville, Kentucky?
Yes, in Louisville, Kentucky, a building permit is required when building, expanding, or altering a garage, since garages are classified as accessory structures. Permits are needed for the foundation, structural components, and any electrical, plumbing, or HVAC installations. Not obtaining the required permit can lead to penalties equal to the cost of the permit.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Morgantown, Kentucky?
Yes, a permit is typically required to build a garage in Morgantown, Kentucky. The City of Morgantown Planning and Zoning Commission requires zoning approval for all new construction and detached accessory structures. Construction cannot begin until detailed plans have been submitted and formally approved for any new building, including garages.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Madisonville, Kentucky?
Yes, in Madisonville, Kentucky, a building permit is usually required for a new detached garage or other accessory structure, unless it is a very small and temporary structure, often under 12 feet by 18 feet or below 120 to 200 square feet, depending on how it is classified. Any structure built on a permanent foundation requires a permit. Contact the Madisonville Community Development & Construction for more information.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Russellville, Kentucky?
Yes, in Russellville, Kentucky, a garage typically requires a building permit because it is treated as a permanent structure that must meet zoning and building requirements. Permits are needed when a structure is built, expanded, or modified. Very small detached sheds under 120 square feet may not require approval, but larger garages must be reviewed and permitted by local officials.
Do I Need a Permit for a Garage in Smiths Grove, Kentucky?
Yes, a permit is typically required to build a garage in Smiths Grove, Kentucky. Detached garages, additions, and other accessory structures generally need building or zoning approval from Warren County Building Services. A permit is required for any detached garage unless it is a very small structure under 12 feet by 18 feet that is not permanently anchored to the ground.
Garage Permit Requirements for Counties in KY
To find your specific county office, refer to the table below and locate the office for your area. In most cases, it is best to confirm permit requirements directly with your city or town officials, unless you live in an unincorporated area where the county office typically has jurisdiction. Also, note that we do not serve all the counties listed below, they are provided strictly for informational purposes. Check out our service area page to see our locations.
How Do I Get a Carport or Garage Permit in Kentucky?
To obtain a carport or garage permit in Kentucky, you typically must apply through your local city or county building department. The process usually requires a completed application, construction drawings, and a site plan that shows property lines and required setbacks. These permits help confirm that the structure complies with local building codes and zoning regulations.
General steps to obtain a carport or garage permit in Kentucky
- Identify the correct local jurisdiction by contacting your city hall, county office, or planning and zoning department, since requirements vary by location
- Submit the required documents, including a building permit application, a site plan showing the structure’s placement, and detailed construction plans
- Review zoning and setback rules to ensure the proposed garage or carport meets size and distance requirements
- Pay the applicable permit fees, which commonly range from $50 to $2,000 depending on project scope
- Schedule required inspections with the building official during construction, such as foundation and framing inspections
How Much is a Carport or Garage Permit in Kentucky?
Carport and garage permit fees in Kentucky can vary widely depending on the city or county where the project is located. Costs are commonly based on square footage or estimated construction value, with fees starting as low as $30 and exceeding $100 in some areas. Because each jurisdiction sets its own fee schedule, homeowners should always verify local requirements before applying.
Typical carport and garage permit fee details in Kentucky
- Louisville Metro often applies a minimum permit fee of $75 for accessory structures such as garages, including foundation-only permits
- Shelby County generally calculates fees based on square footage, with residential accessory structures commonly subject to a $125 minimum
- Some jurisdictions do not require permits for very small or temporary carports under 200 square feet, though this rule varies by location
- Simpson County may charge permit fees at a rate of about $0.04 per square foot, with a minimum fee of $30
- Beginning construction without an approved permit can result in penalties, which may include paying double the original permit fee
It is important to contact your local city or county zoning or building office to confirm the exact permit fees and requirements, as they are not consistent statewide.
Find Carports & Garages That Comply With Kentucky’s Permit Requirements
If you are looking for a carport or garage that meets Kentucky permit requirements, Four Winds Store offers durable, customizable options that meet local building and zoning requirements. Our portable metal carports and prefabricated garages are available in a variety of sizes and configurations, making it easier to choose a structure that aligns with square footage limits, foundation needs, and setback rules. By selecting a high-quality structure from us, homeowners can simplify the permitting process while adding reliable protection and long-term value to their property.
