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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Hazard
Any excavation, construction, or alteration of a structure within the city limits, unless specifically excluded in the zoning/building chapter.
- Exempt Local public utility structures distributing/collecting services (pipes, meters, transformers, etc.)
- Exempt Public streets and appurtenances for traffic safety
- Exempt Private drives, private parking areas, and parking incidental to the principal use on the same premises
- Exempt Real estate signs on property listed for sale/rent up to 10 square feet
- Exempt Signs up to four square feet for approved home occupations
- Exempt Horticulture and landscaping on any premises
- Exempt Agriculture (excluding agricultural structures)
- Scaled lot/site plan
- Building dimensions
- Intended use description
- County Health Officer certificate approving existing water/sewer service (when applicable)
- Building code
- Kentucky Building Code (815 KAR 7:120), Kentucky Residential Code (815 KAR 7:125), Kentucky Plumbing Code (815 KAR 20:039), Kentucky Standards of Safety (815 KAR 10:060), and the 2012 International Property Maintenance Code/1996 as amended.
- Permit validity
- Permits automatically expire six months after issuance unless the Administrative Officer grants a written extension; permanent files must be maintained for all applications and permits.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builder work is not treated differently; the same inspection program and statewide registration/licensure requirements apply to every applicant.
- Contractor requirements
- All building inspections must be performed by DHBC-certified inspectors; electrical work must be inspected by a certified electrical inspector approved by the city.
Application process
Typical processing: Approximately 2 weeks from submission to permit issuance for compliant applications.
- 01 Assemble a scaled plan set showing lot dimensions, all existing/proposed structures, uses, and yard depths.
- 02 Obtain County Health Department approval of potable water and sewerage facilities when required.
- 03 Submit the packet to the City Manager (Administrative Officer) for completeness review.
- 04 City Manager has two weeks to act on the application; issues permit if compliant or written refusal if deficiencies exist.
- 05 Begin construction before permit becomes void (six months from issuance unless extended in writing).
Typical processing time: Approximately 2 weeks from submission to permit issuance for compliant applications.
Fee schedule
Hazard building permit fees
Payments are collected through City Hall; no online payment gateway is publicly published.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- City Hall – (606) 436-3171 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- City Hall staffed during normal business hours
Typical sequence: The inspector enforces the Kentucky Building and Residential Codes before issuing certificates of occupancy, covering foundation, framing, systems, and final phases.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Hazard permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Hazard, KY? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Hazard, KY? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Hazard, KY? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Hazard, KY? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Hazard, KY? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Hazard, KY? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Hazard Building Inspection program (City Manager's Office) before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.