Unincorporated Harlan County

All new construction, structural alterations, foundation work, roofing changes affecting structural members, and most HVAC/electrical/plumbing additions beyond maintenance require a building permit under the Kentucky Building Code (KRS Chapter 198B).

Note: No public exempt-work list was located on the county websites; call the Judge Executive's office to confirm whether a repair or maintenance project can proceed without a permit.

Building code

Kentucky Building Code (Uniform State Building Code, KRS Chapter 198B)

Owner-builder

Owner-builders must still certify compliance with the Kentucky Building Code and the contractor licensing/insurance requirements described in KRS Chapter 198B.

Contractor requirements

Contractors must carry the appropriate DHBC license/registration and insurance; the state inspector list for Harlan County shows no separate municipal inspector, indicating adherence to DHBC licensing.

1. 01
   Contact the Judge Executive's office to describe the scope of work, confirm the required documents, and receive the correct application packet for the unincorporated area.
2. 02
   Prepare site/plot plans, structural drawings, contractor license numbers, proof of workers' compensation and unemployment insurance, and any owner-builder affidavits required under the Uniform State Building Code (KRS Chapter 198B).
3. 03
   Submit the packet with the applicable fees; projects needing state review (commercial, large multi-family, or certain mechanical/electrical/plumbing systems) are routed to the DHBC field inspector assigned to Harlan County for plan review and inspection authorization.
4. 04
   Schedule inspections through the Judge Executive's office for the required stages (footings/foundation, framing/trades, final) before enclosing work, per the inspection flow in the state code.

Source: Harlan County Judge Executive / Fiscal Court ↗

• (606) 573-4771 (phone)

Typical sequence: The Uniform State Building Code prescribes footing/foundation, framing/trade, and final inspections before occupancy, which the county follows for each permit.