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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Pembroke
All construction projects in Pembroke must obtain a building permit.
Note: All construction projects in Pembroke must obtain a building permit; no separate exempt-work list is published.
- Building permit application
- Site plan and survey
- Architectural and structural plans
- Wall and foundation details
- Door and window schedules
- Interior finish schedules
- Structural loads documentation
- Accessibility details
- Fire suppression and alarm plans
- Energy calculations
- Geotechnical reports
- Shop drawings
- Signed and sealed plans when required
- Kentucky DHBC plumbing plans
- Building code
- 2018 Kentucky Building Code (2015 IBC), 2018 Kentucky Residential Code (2015 IRC), 2015 International Mechanical and Fire Codes, 2012 and 2009 International Energy Conservation Codes, ICC/ANSI A117.1, Kentucky plumbing and boiler laws, and referenced NFPA standards.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builder certification required; homeowner confirms they will perform work without hiring additional labor.
- Contractor requirements
- Every contractor and subcontractor must hold a current business license and comply with Kentucky workers compensation and unemployment insurance rules.
Source: Community and Development Services - Code Enforcement Department ↗
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Contact CDS to confirm zoning and plan approvals before preparing construction documents.
- 02 Determine whether the new work falls under CDS/local jurisdiction or the Kentucky Division of Housing, Buildings and Construction.
- 03 Submit Pembroke-specific residential or commercial application packets (City pages 11-18 of the Application Guide) with all required documentation.
- 04 Pay construction review and permit fees.
- 05 Respond to any reviewer comments.
- 06 Schedule inspections once the permit is issued.
Source: Community and Development Services - Code Enforcement Department ↗
Fee schedule
Pembroke building permit fees
Fees accepted at CDS office; payment methods directed by staff when Accela portal is ready.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (270) 887-4285 (phone)
Typical sequence: Plan review followed by structural/foundation, electrical (must be approved before permanent service), mechanical, fire, and any required special inspections per the KBC; plan review fee covers field inspections.
Source: Community and Development Services - Code Enforcement Department ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Pembroke permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Pembroke, KY? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Pembroke, KY? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Pembroke, KY? ▸
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in Pembroke, KY? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Community and Development Services - Code Enforcement Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.