Pole Barn Permits in Kentucky: The Complete Guide

If you’re planning to build a pole barn in Kentucky, you’ll typically need approval from the appropriate local building office. In some cases, guidance may also come from the Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings, and Construction. Permit requirements often depend on where you live, and the size and use of the structure, but larger buildings are more likely to require permits. In general, you can expect to submit an application along with basic property and project details, such as a site plan and proof of ownership, and some jurisdictions may also require engineered plans.

For more specific details on the requirements in your area, keep reading. In this article, we’ll cover pole barn permit requirements by use and by city and county in Kentucky, so you can determine exactly what steps you need to take to get approval to build a pole barn.

Do I Need a Permit to Build a Pole Barn in Kentucky?

Yes, in Kentucky, you’ll very likely need a permit before building a pole barn. Pole barns, like other accessory structures such as detached garages, are commonly subject to local building and zoning approval prior to starting construction. Skipping the required permits can lead to penalties and, in some cases, being required to modify or remove the structure.

Permits for Pole Barn Garages

In Kentucky, pole barn garages typically require permits for most detached structures, but zoning is often the deciding factor in whether a garage-style pole barn is allowed on a property. Depending on the project’s location and scope, approvals may include zoning clearance, a building permit, and separate permits for electrical or plumbing work, all issued through local city or county planning and building offices.

Applicants are commonly required to submit a site plan, basic construction details, and either proof of contractor insurance or an exemption affidavit. Most importantly, the property must be zoned appropriately for garage use in order to construct a pole barn intended for vehicle storage or similar purposes.

Permits for Commercial Pole Barns

Commercial pole barns in Kentucky typically require a building permit under the Kentucky Building Code, with the process usually handled through local zoning, planning, or code enforcement offices. In addition to permitting, the property must be zoned to allow commercial use, as zoning regulations determine whether a commercial pole barn is permitted at a given location. Permits are generally needed for new construction as well as expansions or structural changes, and they often involve submitting site plans, scheduling inspections, and, depending on the project, providing engineered drawings.

Permits for Barndominiums

In Kentucky, barndominiums generally require building permits because they’re treated as residential homes and must comply with state and local building codes. That typically means inspections for key systems such as plumbing, electrical, and septic, where applicable. In addition, the property must be zoned to allow residential use, as zoning regulations determine whether a barndominium can be built at a given location. Before construction starts, you’ll usually need to obtain approvals through your local zoning office, and requirements can vary by county. Commonly needed permits include residential zoning approval, a building permit, and septic authorization.

Permits for Equestrian or Agricultural Pole Barns

In Kentucky, pole barn permits for agricultural or equestrian purposes typically require filing a permit application, along with site plans and building drawings, with the appropriate city or county zoning department. Permit costs differ by jurisdiction. In addition, the property must be zoned to allow agricultural or equestrian use, as zoning regulations determine whether this type of pole barn is permitted at a given location. Although legitimate agricultural buildings may qualify for certain exemptions, many counties still require zoning clearance for setback compliance, and permits are usually required for residential, commercial, and equestrian-use structures.

What Happens if You Build a Pole Barn Without a Permit in Kentucky?

Building a pole barn in Kentucky without the required permits can come with serious consequences. Depending on the jurisdiction and the severity of the violation, you could face substantial fines, be required to schedule inspections with added penalty costs, and even be ordered to remove or tear down the structure. In many areas, officials may also require double permit fees or demand that the building be brought up to code, at your expense, before it can be approved.

What Cities in Kentucky Require a Permit for Building Pole Barns?

To find out whether you need a permit in your area, check the table below to identify the city office that oversees pole barn approvals where your property is located. All cities listed fall within CMT’s service area. Counties are included for general reference only, and CMT does not serve every county shown. Once you’ve found your location, contact the listed local authority to confirm current requirements before you begin building.

Do I Need a Pole Barn Permit in Alexandria, Kentucky?

Yes, you need a permit for a pole barn in Alexandria, Kentucky. The Campbell County Planning, Zoning & Building Department oversees zoning and building approvals, and their requirements include permits for detached garages and other accessory structures, in effect since March 1, 2023.

Do I Need a Pole Barn Permit in Augusta, Kentucky?

Yes, you generally need a building permit for a pole barn in Augusta, Kentucky, since most accessory structures, such as detached garages, sheds, and barns, must be approved before construction. Permits help confirm the project meets zoning rules, safety standards, and site requirements.

Do I Need a Pole Barn Permit in Brooksville, Kentucky?

Yes, you generally need a building permit for a pole barn in Brooksville and Bracken County, Kentucky, since most permanent accessory structures require prior approval. Permits are typically required for construction such as detached garages and storage buildings, with exceptions usually limited to very small, one-story structures, often under about 120–200 square feet.

Do I Need a Pole Barn Permit in Burlington, Kentucky?

Yes, you need a permit for a pole barn in Burlington, Kentucky. Permits are required for detached accessory structures such as pole barns, storage sheds, and garages. Building without a permit can result in doubled fees, fines, or even having to remove the structure. For more information, contact the Boone County Building Inspector’s Office. 

Do I Need a Pole Barn Permit in Catlettsburg, Kentucky?

Yes, you generally need both building and zoning permits to put up a pole barn, or any permanent, detached accessory structure, in Catlettsburg, Kentucky. Local City of Catlettsburg rules require getting approval from the building inspector before construction begins, and building without a permit can lead to fines and stop-work or cease-work orders.

Do I Need a Pole Barn Permit in Flemingsburg, Kentucky?

Yes, you typically need a permit for a pole barn in Flemingsburg, Kentucky. Local rules typically require a zoning permit to build, move, or modify any structure with set fees for items like storage buildings, and a building permit is usually required for permanent structures such as detached garages or sheds under the local building authority.

Do I Need a Pole Barn Permit in Florence, Kentucky?

Yes, you need a permit for a pole barn in Florence, Kentucky. Accessory structures such as pole barns, detached garages, and large storage sheds must have a building permit from Boone County Building Inspection before construction begins. If you build without a permit, you may face fines, penalties, and even be required to remove the structure.

Do I Need a Pole Barn Permit in Fort Thomas, Kentucky?

Yes, you need a permit for a pole barn in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, since the city requires permits for all detached accessory structures, including sheds and garages. These projects also require a $20 permit fee.

Do I Need a Pole Barn Permit in Independence, Kentucky?

Yes, you very likely need both building and zoning permits to construct a pole barn in Independence, Kentucky. Permits are required for accessory structures such as detached garages, storage sheds, and pole barns.

Do I Need a Pole Barn Permit in Maysville, Kentucky?

Yes, you typically need a building permit for a pole barn in Maysville, Kentucky, since permits are required for accessory structures, such as garages, sheds, and agricultural buildings, to meet safety and zoning requirements. You’ll usually need to submit a site plan and a permit application to the appropriate local office before construction begins.

Do I Need a Pole Barn Permit in Richmond, Kentucky?

Yes, a pole barn in Richmond, Kentucky, will usually require approval before you build. Local construction rules commonly require permits for most new projects, including outbuildings. Some jurisdictions may waive the requirement for very small, detached, non-living sheds (often around 120–200 square feet), but anything bigger is typically subject to permitting.

Do I Need a Pole Barn Permit in Tollesboro, Kentucky?

Yes, a building permit is commonly required for a pole barn in Tollesboro, Kentucky, especially when it’s larger than 200 square feet or intended for something other than farming. Very small detached farm or outbuildings may be excluded from permitting if they fall below a size threshold, but you should confirm the specifics with the Lewis County building inspector or the local zoning office.

Do I Need a Pole Barn Permit in Vanceburg, Kentucky?

Yes, in Kentucky, you’ll usually need a building permit for a pole barn. It’s mainly to make sure the project meets zoning and safety rules and to help you avoid fines, especially if the building is over about 120–200 sq. ft. Before you start, it’s best to check in with the Lewis County building department or your local zoning office.

What Counties in Kentucky Require a Permit for Building Pole Barns?

To find out whether you need a permit for a pole barn, check the table below for your county and the corresponding permitting or zoning office. If you don’t see your county listed, contact your local planning and building department to confirm the requirements before you start building.

How Much Do Building Permits Cost in Kentucky?

Building permit costs in Kentucky depend on the city or county, but residential permits commonly run about $0.10 to $0.25 per square foot, with minimum fees often around $150 to $360. Commercial permits are usually calculated by square footage or total project value, and smaller related permits can add to the total, such as $100 to $200 for decks or pools and $50 to $100 or more for demolitions, while additions or remodels often start around $125 to $155.

Pole Barn Permit Requirements in Kentucky

In Kentucky, pole barn permits are usually required when a building exceeds 120 to 200 square feet, depending on the county or city, and the project must comply with either the Kentucky Residential Code or the Kentucky Building Code. Most areas require paperwork such as an application, a site plan, and foundation details, and you may also need additional approvals, like a septic or EPA-related permit or an encroachment permit when applicable.

Building Permit

To obtain a pole barn building permit in Kentucky, contact your local county or city building or zoning office and submit a permit application. Requirements vary by area, but you will usually need:

• Permit application
• Site plan
• Building plans
• Septic or sewer information and driveway approval, if needed

The local office will review your paperwork and approve the project if it meets local rules.

Zoning Permit

To obtain a pole barn zoning permit in Kentucky, you will need to apply through your local county or city Planning and Zoning Office and submit the required paperwork. Zoning approval typically must be issued before you can receive a building permit.

• Zoning application
• Site plot plan
• Basic construction plans
• Fees and approval from the zoning office
• Permit posted on site during construction

Electrical, Plumbing, or HVAC Permits

Kentucky requires state-regulated licenses and permits for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work through the Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings, and Construction. Permits are typically needed for new installations, replacements, and major changes. In most cases, a licensed contractor must obtain the permit, although homeowners may be allowed to apply for permits when doing work on their own primary residence.

Looking for Post-Frame Building Packages Tailored to Meet Local Requirements?

Are you ready to take the next step? At CMT Components, we offer customizable post-frame building packages built around your intended use and the realities of local permitting, whether you’re planning a garage, workshop, storage building, agricultural barn, equestrian facility, commercial space, or even a barndominium. Our online 3D builder makes it easy to choose dimensions, doors, windows, and other options, so you can price and plan your project with fewer surprises. With kits manufactured in-house, including roof trusses and metal panels, and shipped directly to your job site, you get a streamlined path from design to delivery and a package that’s ready to build when you are.