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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Murray
New buildings, significant renovations, accessory structures 120 sq. ft. (commercial) or 200 sq. ft. (residential) when affixed to the ground, fences taller than 7 feet, and pools exceeding 24 inches in depth or 250 square feet require permits. Decks must be evaluated by the department.
- Exempt Portable buildings left on their runners smaller than 120 sq. ft. (commercial) or 200 sq. ft. (residential) and not affixed to a foundation
- Exempt Pull-out fences under 7 feet in height (must meet zoning setbacks)
- Exempt Small pools less than 24 inches deep or 250 square feet in area
Note: Minor decks may be exempt after confirmation with the department. Contact Planning & Engineering to verify qualifying exclusions.
- Completed building permit application
- Two complete sets of building construction plans
- Detailed site plan
- Subcontractor list
- Worker's compensation affidavit
- Mechanical calculations and engineered drawings (commercial projects)
- Any additional documentation required for specialty trades (electrical, HVAC, plumbing)
- Building code
- Kentucky Building Code (2018 Kentucky Residential Code/Kentucky Building Code and referenced standards)
- Permit validity
- Work cannot begin until the permit is issued. No structure may be occupied until the building official issues a Certificate of Occupancy after all final inspections and certifications.
- Owner-builder
- Applicants must sign the KRS 198B.030 affidavit confirming worker's compensation and unemployment insurance compliance and owner authorization. No plan deviation is allowed without approval.
- Contractor requirements
- All contractors must hold a City of Murray business license before work begins. Electrical work is inspected by a state-certified inspector, HVAC installers must be state licensed, and plumbing plans must be approved by Calloway County Health Department.
Source: Department of Planning & Engineering, Building Code Enforcement ↗
Application process
Typical processing: Approximately two weeks for administrative review of building-permit applications after submission.
- 01 Request the building permit application through the SmartForms portal or by calling Planning & Engineering (270-762-0330) to request a paper packet by mail.
- 02 Fill out the application and attach two complete sets of construction plans, a detailed site plan, subcontractor list, worker's compensation affidavit, and any mechanical or electrical documentation required.
- 03 Submit the completed packet to Planning & Engineering for plan review, which includes approvals from Calloway County Health Department, utility providers, stormwater, and other required agencies.
- 04 Once plans are approved, pay the applicable fee schedule and secure any separate tap permits.
- 05 Receive the building permit before commencing work.
- 06 Schedule required inspections (footing, framing, final, and specialty inspections) with the Building Official.
- 07 Secure the Certificate of Occupancy once all inspections pass before occupying the building.
Typical processing time: Approximately two weeks for administrative review of building-permit applications after submission.
Source: Department of Planning & Engineering, Building Code Enforcement ↗
Fee schedule
Murray building permit fees
Work may not begin until the fee is paid and the approved permit is issued. Contact Planning & Engineering at (270) 762-0330 for current charges.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (270) 762-0350 ext. 1134 (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- A minimum 24-hour notice is recommended before each inspection.
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Typical sequence: Typical sequence: footing/foundation, concrete/under-floor, framing, gypsum, special systems (sprinkler, fire alarm, range hood), and final inspection.
Source: Department of Planning & Engineering, Building Code Enforcement ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Murray permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Murray, KY? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Murray, KY? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Murray, KY? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Murray, KY? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Murray, KY? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Murray, KY? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Department of Planning & Engineering, Building Code Enforcement before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.