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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Allen
Any building, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, or manufactured housing work that falls under the Kentucky Building Code.
Note: No published exempt-work list for these cities; verify with the state inspector before assuming a permit is unnecessary.
- Plans and site plans
- Structural and mechanical details
- Plumbing approval from Floyd County Health Department
- Contractor license information
- Building code
- 2018 Kentucky Building Code (third edition) and 2018 Kentucky Residential Code (second edition), plus their ICC references.
- Permit validity
- Construction cannot start until DHBC issues the permit. A certificate of occupancy is required following the final inspection.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders must still comply with the same code obligations; licensed contractors are required for regulated trades.
- Contractor requirements
- Licensed contractors for each trade must supply their license numbers before a permit is issued.
Source: Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction, Division of Building Code Enforcement ↗
Application process
Typical processing: Not published; review durations depend on project size.
- 01 Confirm state jurisdiction (projects outside Prestonsburg city limits).
- 02 Create a SmartGov account and select the relevant permit type (building, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, or manufactured housing).
- 03 Complete the online application, attach plans and site plans, and list contractor license information.
- 04 Pay valuation-based fees (the portal adds the $1.00 ACH convenience charge) and upload any supporting approvals (e.g., plumbing approval from Floyd County Health).
- 05 Await DHBC plan review and receive the permit through SmartGov.
- 06 Schedule inspections via the SmartGov portal or by calling the state inspector.
Typical processing time: Not published; review durations depend on project size.
Source: Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction, Division of Building Code Enforcement ↗
Fee schedule
Allen building permit fees
SmartGov adds a $1.00 ACH convenience fee for electronic payments. Fees are determined in SmartGov based on valuation.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- SmartGov Portal (online)
- Jamie Potter (Floyd County State Inspector) (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Tuesday 8:00-9:30 AM at Floyd County Health Department (238 Goble Street, Prestonsburg)
Typical sequence: After the permit is granted via SmartGov, schedule foundation, framing/trade, and final inspections; DHBC issues the certificate of occupancy when all trades pass.
Source: Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction, Division of Building Code Enforcement ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Allen permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Allen, KY? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Allen, KY? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Allen, KY? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Allen, KY? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Allen, KY? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction, Division of Building Code Enforcement before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.