On this page 6
§ 02
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Paducah
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.
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.
- Exempt Window awnings on one- and two-family dwellings that project no more than 54 inches and do not require additional supports.
- Exempt 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.
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
- Building code
- Kentucky Building Code and Kentucky Residential Code as adopted by the State of Kentucky and referenced in the Paducah Code of Ordinances.
- Permit validity
- Contact the Fire Prevention Division for current permit expiration timeline.
- 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.
Source: City of Paducah Fire Department, Fire Prevention Division ↗
§ 03
Application process
Typical processing: A few days to thirty days depending on the project type and complexity.
- 01 Meet with the Development Liaison to confirm the correct address and check for liens, fines, and zoning district information.
- 02 Determine whether the work needs a site plan and schedule a preliminary meeting with Planning staff if required.
- 03 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.
- 04 Identify any board or commission approvals (planning commission, historic district, etc.) that must precede construction.
- 05 Secure any right-of-way, driveway, street/sidewalk closure, or demolition permits from the Engineering Division before starting work affecting public infrastructure.
- 06 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.
- 07 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.
- 08 Receive the Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Compliance once all inspections pass and the Fire Prevention Division has confirmed code compliance.
- 09 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 ↗
§ 04
Fee schedule
Paducah building permit fees
Fee type
Amount
01
Plan check fee
Required when plans are submitted; amount varies based on project size and complexity.
02
Permit fee formula
Permits combine valuation-based calculations with flat fees for certain categories; demolition permits charged at $50 per installation.
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 periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
§ 05
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
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 sequence: Typical sequence: footings, foundations, rough framing, and final inspections.
Source: City of Paducah Fire Department, Fire Prevention Division ↗
§ 06
Frequently asked
Common questions about Paducah permits
01 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.
02 How much does a building permit cost in Paducah, KY? ▸
Building permit fees in Paducah, KY are set by the local building department and vary by project type and valuation. 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..
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Paducah, KY? ▸
To apply for a building permit in Paducah, KY, follow these steps: 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.
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Paducah, KY? ▸
Building permit processing times in Paducah, KY typically run A few days to thirty days depending on the project type and complexity.. Timelines can vary based on project complexity and current department workload.
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Paducah, KY? ▸
Not all construction work requires a permit 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. When in doubt, confirm with the local building department before starting work.
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Paducah, KY? ▸
Once your permit is issued and work reaches an inspection milestone, you can schedule a building inspection in Paducah, KY via: (270) 444-8527, Online Services Portal. At least 24 to 48 hours notice required prior to the inspection..
last verified April 2026
source City of Paducah Fire Department, Fire Prevention Division ↗
entry id permits/kentucky/mccracken/paducah
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Paducah Fire Department, Fire Prevention Division before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.