Middlesboro, KY - 2026 Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

All properties within the incorporated City of Middlesboro, where the local zoning ordinance governs permitting alongside the Kentucky Uniform Building Code.

Department

City of Middlesboro Code Enforcement / Building Department

Address

221 N. 21st Street, PO Box 756, Middlesboro, KY 40965

Phone

(606) 248-5670

Website

https://www.cityofmiddlesboro.com/

Application Process

1. Submit an application with dimensioned sketches showing the lot, existing and proposed buildings, uses, occupancies, drainage and other facts needed to verify compliance with the ordinance.
2. The Administrative Official reviews the materials and must grant or deny the permit in writing within 30 days, providing the causes of denial if the submission is not approved.
3. Construction, moving, demolition or structural alteration cannot begin until the permit is issued; working without a permit may prompt a restraining order.
4. Permits lapse six months after issuance without substantial progress but may be renewed without fee if the Administrative Official confirms ongoing work.
5. After notifying the Administrative Official that the work is ready for occupancy, a final inspection is conducted and a Certificate of Occupancy is issued or refused in writing.

Typical processing time: Approval or denial must occur within 30 days of submission.

Source: City of Middlesboro Code Enforcement / Building Department

General Requirements

Any building or other structure that is erected, moved, added to, or structurally altered requires a permit before work begins.

Required Documents

• Application with two copies of plans drawn to scale
• Lot dimensions
• Locations of existing and proposed buildings
• Purpose of each building or land use
• Number of units
• Proposed drainage
• Any other data deemed necessary by the Administrative Official

Permit validity

Permits are void after six months without substantial progress but may be renewed without fee if the Administrative Official reviews and approves the extension.

Building code

Kentucky Uniform Building Code enforced by the Department of Housing, Buildings & Construction

Owner-builder

The ordinance does not provide owner-builder-specific exemptions; contact the office for guidance on residential exceptions.

Contractor requirements

Kentucky law requires permit applicants to attest that all contractors and subcontractors will comply with workers' compensation and unemployment insurance statutes, and applicants consent to construction inspections as part of the permit process.

Fees

Payment note

Staff advises contacting the building department directly at (606) 248-5670 for current fee schedule and payment methods; no online payment portal identified.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Contact the City of Middlesboro Code Enforcement / Building Department to confirm whether your project requires a permit before starting work.

Inspections

How to Schedule

• City Hall / Code Enforcement Office (in-person)
• (606) 248-5670 (phone)

Scheduling deadline

Applicants must notify the Administrative Official when the project is ready, and the official is required to inspect within five days of notification.

Inspection hours

Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (with 12:00 to 1:00 PM lunch closure)

Typical inspection sequence: Submit plans, obtain permit, complete construction with accessible work, request final inspection, and receive a Certificate of Occupancy if compliant.

Additional Resources

• Building code: Kentucky Uniform Building Code enforced by the Department of Housing, Buildings & Construction
• Zoning information: View zoning info
• License lookup guide: Kentucky Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: Kentucky Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• Kentucky hub: Kentucky Contractor License & Permit Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Middlesboro Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Middlesboro, KY?

Any building or other structure that is erected, moved, added to, or structurally altered requires a permit before work begins.

How do I apply for a building permit in Middlesboro, KY?

1. Submit an application with dimensioned sketches showing the lot, existing and proposed buildings, uses, occupancies, drainage and other facts needed to verify compliance with the ordinance. 2. The Administrative Official reviews the materials and must grant or deny the permit in writing within 30 days, providing the causes of denial if the submission is not approved. 3. Construction, moving, demolition or structural alteration cannot begin until the permit is issued; working without a permit may prompt a restraining order. 4. Permits lapse six months after issuance without substantial progress but may be renewed without fee if the Administrative Official confirms ongoing work. 5. After notifying the Administrative Official that the work is ready for occupancy, a final inspection is conducted and a Certificate of Occupancy is issued or refused in writing.

How long does it take to get a building permit in Middlesboro, KY?

Typical processing time is Approval or denial must occur within 30 days of submission..

What work is exempt from building permits in Middlesboro, KY?

The following work is generally exempt: Recurring maintenance work; Installation of required improvements according to an approved subdivision plat.

How do I schedule a building inspection in Middlesboro, KY?

Inspections can be scheduled via: City Hall / Code Enforcement Office, (606) 248-5670. Applicants must notify the Administrative Official when the project is ready, and the official is required to inspect within five days of notification..

Other cities in Bell County