Unincorporated Muhlenberg County

Any new structure, addition, structural alteration, change of occupancy, or mechanical/electrical/plumbing work that falls under the Kentucky Uniform Building Code must be permitted.

Note: Limited exemptions noted in DHBC guide include certain shop drawings (e.g., UL 710/710B Type I hood packages) exempt from specific IMC detailing. No comprehensive local exempt-work list is published; check with the county building inspector.

Building code

Kentucky Uniform Building Code (KRS 198B)

Permit validity

Confirm permit expiration terms with Muhlenberg County Community Development at time of issue.

Owner-builder

Owner-builders must still submit the Affidavit of Assurances and all applicable plans in accordance with the DHBC checklist.

Contractor requirements

Professional design services must comply with KRS 322/323; architects and engineers must be registered for projects exceeding thresholds in Table 122.1. Licensed contractors are expected on mechanical/electrical/plumbing work.

Source: Muhlenberg County Community Development ↗

1. 01
   Call Muhlenberg County Community Development at (270) 886-9484 to describe the proposed work and confirm required permits.
2. 02
   Prepare a complete plan submission following the DHBC plan-review checklist: site plan/survey, building elevations, structural details, accessibility notes, door/window schedules, finish schedules, specifications, fire-rated assembly documentation, energy compliance calculations, geotechnical data, specialty shop drawings, and the Affidavit of Assurances.
3. 03
   Submit plans, supporting documentation, and the plan-review fee (calculated by occupancy/area with a $285 minimum) to the county building department.
4. 04
   County building department routes the package to state or local inspectors under the Kentucky Uniform Building Code.
5. 05
   After plan approval (typically 30-60 days for new commercial construction), pay applicable permit fees, schedule inspections, and secure the permit before beginning construction.

Typical processing time: 30-60 days for new commercial construction

Source: Muhlenberg County Community Development ↗

DHBC's SmartGov portal charges a $1 flat fee for ACH payments; checks accepted for in-person payments

Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.

• (270) 339-4188 (Pat Rhodes, local building inspector) (phone)

Inspection hours

Wednesdays 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM at Muhlenberg County Health Department; other times by phone appointment

Typical sequence: After footing/foundation review, framing and structural inspections occur, followed by mechanical/electrical/plumbing approvals and required electrical inspector sign-off before legal occupancy.