How much does a building permit cost in Paducah, KY?

Fees are calculated as: Permits combine valuation-based calculations with flat fees for certain categories; demolition permits charged at $50 per installation.. Plan check fee: Required when plans are submitted; amount varies based on project size and complexity..

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

1. Meet with the Development Liaison to confirm the correct address and check for liens, fines, and zoning district information. 2. Determine whether the work needs a site plan and schedule a preliminary meeting with Planning staff if required. 3. Determine if a stormwater management plan, erosion prevention, sediment control permit, or Special Flood Hazard Area Development Permit is required and submit any relevant Engineering Department applications. 4. Identify any board or commission approvals (planning commission, historic district, etc.) that must precede construction. 5. Secure any right-of-way, driveway, street/sidewalk closure, or demolition permits from the Engineering Division before starting work affecting public infrastructure. 6. Submit all required drawings, approved site plans, contractor insurance, and business license verifications through the Online Services Portal to obtain building, electrical, HVAC, sign, or other construction permits. 7. Schedule inspections at key milestones (footings, foundations, rough frame, finals) by calling (270) 444-8527 or requesting them through the portal with at least 24 hours notice. 8. Receive the Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Compliance once all inspections pass and the Fire Prevention Division has confirmed code compliance. 9. Apply for any required City of Paducah business license after the relevant certificate is issued.

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

Typical processing time is A few days to thirty days depending on the project type and complexity..

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

The following work is generally exempt: Window awnings on one- and two-family dwellings that project no more than 54 inches and do not require additional supports.; Residential above-ground pools that meet safety barrier and ladder/removable access requirements.. Note: Consult Fire Prevention Division for other potential exemptions beyond the listed categories.

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

Inspections can be scheduled via: (270) 444-8527, Online Services Portal. At least 24 to 48 hours notice required prior to the inspection..

City Building Permits

Paducah, KY - 2026 Building Permit Guide

How to apply for a building permit in Paducah, Kentucky. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

Kentucky McCracken County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

All construction, mechanical, electrical, fire, signage, and related permits inside Paducah city limits.

Department: City of Paducah Fire Department, Fire Prevention Division
Address: City Hall, 1st Floor, 300 South 5th Street, Paducah, KY 42001
Phone: (270) 444-8527
Email: development@paducahky.gov
Website: https://paducahky.gov/departments/fire-department/permits-construction

Online Permit Portal

Open City of Paducah Online Services Portal

Platform: Tyler EnerGov • Account required: Yes • Submission: Online only

Additional resources:

Application Process

Meet with the Development Liaison to confirm the correct address and check for liens, fines, and zoning district information.
Determine whether the work needs a site plan and schedule a preliminary meeting with Planning staff if required.
Determine if a stormwater management plan, erosion prevention, sediment control permit, or Special Flood Hazard Area Development Permit is required and submit any relevant Engineering Department applications.
Identify any board or commission approvals (planning commission, historic district, etc.) that must precede construction.
Secure any right-of-way, driveway, street/sidewalk closure, or demolition permits from the Engineering Division before starting work affecting public infrastructure.
Submit all required drawings, approved site plans, contractor insurance, and business license verifications through the Online Services Portal to obtain building, electrical, HVAC, sign, or other construction permits.
Schedule inspections at key milestones (footings, foundations, rough frame, finals) by calling (270) 444-8527 or requesting them through the portal with at least 24 hours notice.
Receive the Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Compliance once all inspections pass and the Fire Prevention Division has confirmed code compliance.
Apply for any required City of Paducah business license after the relevant certificate is issued.

Typical processing time: A few days to thirty days depending on the project type and complexity.

Source: City of Paducah Fire Department, Fire Prevention Division

General Requirements

All new construction, renovations beyond cosmetic finishes, accessory structures above listed thresholds, awnings, demolition, electrical, HVAC, signage, temporary structures over 120 square feet, pools, manufactured homes, and other remodel/remediation work require the appropriate building, trade, and related permits.

Required Documents

Complete drawings
Approved site plans (if applicable)
Contractor business license proof
Workers compensation documentation or waiver
Homeowners affidavits for owner-occupied work
Accurate addressing
Any additional departmental application materials

Permit validity: Contact the Fire Prevention Division for current permit expiration timeline.
Building code: Kentucky Building Code and Kentucky Residential Code as adopted by the State of Kentucky and referenced in the Paducah Code of Ordinances.
Owner-builder: Homeowners are exempt from contractor licensing for work on their primary residence but must provide a homeowners affidavit and still obtain the required permits.
Contractor requirements: General contractors must hold required worker's compensation insurance, valid professional licenses, a current city business license, and have no payroll or lien issues.

Fees

Plan check fee: Required when plans are submitted; amount varies based on project size and complexity.
Permit fee formula: Permits combine valuation-based calculations with flat fees for certain categories; demolition permits charged at $50 per installation.
Payment note: Permit fees, invoicing, and inspections are paid and tracked inside the portal, which charges a $1.50 e-check convenience fee per payment.

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Window awnings on one- and two-family dwellings that project no more than 54 inches and do not require additional supports.
Residential above-ground pools that meet safety barrier and ladder/removable access requirements.

Important: Consult Fire Prevention Division for other potential exemptions beyond the listed categories.

Inspections

How to Schedule

(270) 444-8527 (phone)
Online Services Portal (online)

Scheduling deadline: At least 24 to 48 hours notice required prior to the inspection.
Inspection hours: Regular business hours, Monday-Friday.

Typical inspection sequence: Typical sequence: footings, foundations, rough framing, and final inspections.

Additional Resources

Building code: Kentucky Building Code and Kentucky Residential Code as adopted by the State of Kentucky and referenced in the Paducah Code of Ordinances.
Zoning information: View zoning info
Development Liaison Services
License lookup guide: Kentucky Contractor License Requirements
Contract template: Kentucky Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
Kentucky hub: Kentucky Contractor License & Permit Hub

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the City of Paducah Fire Department, Fire Prevention Division before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Paducah Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Paducah, KY?: All new construction, renovations beyond cosmetic finishes, accessory structures above listed thresholds, awnings, demolition, electrical, HVAC, signage, temporary structures over 120 square feet, pools, manufactured homes, and other remodel/remediation work require the appropriate building, trade, and related permits.
How much does a building permit cost in Paducah, KY?: Fees are calculated as: Permits combine valuation-based calculations with flat fees for certain categories; demolition permits charged at $50 per installation.. Plan check fee: Required when plans are submitted; amount varies based on project size and complexity..
How do I apply for a building permit in Paducah, KY?: 1. Meet with the Development Liaison to confirm the correct address and check for liens, fines, and zoning district information. 2. Determine whether the work needs a site plan and schedule a preliminary meeting with Planning staff if required. 3. Determine if a stormwater management plan, erosion prevention, sediment control permit, or Special Flood Hazard Area Development Permit is required and submit any relevant Engineering Department applications. 4. Identify any board or commission approvals (planning commission, historic district, etc.) that must precede construction. 5. Secure any right-of-way, driveway, street/sidewalk closure, or demolition permits from the Engineering Division before starting work affecting public infrastructure. 6. Submit all required drawings, approved site plans, contractor insurance, and business license verifications through the Online Services Portal to obtain building, electrical, HVAC, sign, or other construction permits. 7. Schedule inspections at key milestones (footings, foundations, rough frame, finals) by calling (270) 444-8527 or requesting them through the portal with at least 24 hours notice. 8. Receive the Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Compliance once all inspections pass and the Fire Prevention Division has confirmed code compliance. 9. Apply for any required City of Paducah business license after the relevant certificate is issued.
How long does it take to get a building permit in Paducah, KY?: Typical processing time is A few days to thirty days depending on the project type and complexity..
What work is exempt from building permits in Paducah, KY?: The following work is generally exempt: Window awnings on one- and two-family dwellings that project no more than 54 inches and do not require additional supports.; Residential above-ground pools that meet safety barrier and ladder/removable access requirements.. Note: Consult Fire Prevention Division for other potential exemptions beyond the listed categories.
How do I schedule a building inspection in Paducah, KY?: Inspections can be scheduled via: (270) 444-8527, Online Services Portal. At least 24 to 48 hours notice required prior to the inspection..

Need help with your project?

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Important: This page is an educational resource provided by jaspector.com. It is not legal advice, and it does not substitute for official guidance from the permit authority listed above. Permit requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing department before beginning any construction project. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Jaspector assumes no liability for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.

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