ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Louisville (2026)
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit requirements, fees, and process for Louisville, KY. Find out if you need a permit and how to apply.
Yes, a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Louisville, KY.
A ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Louisville, KY. The Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services handles permit applications for Louisville. Below you will find the current thresholds, fees, and process for obtaining a adu (accessory dwelling unit) permit in Louisville.
When Is a Permit Required?
When a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Is Required in Louisville: All ADU construction
Permit Fees
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Fees in Louisville: $2,000–$8,000. Estimated timeline: 6-10 weeks.
Estimated timeline: 6-10 weeks
How to Get a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Louisville
Verify whether your project meets the permit threshold in Louisville: All ADU construction.
Prepare your permit application and plans. Contact the Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services at https://louisvilleky.gov/government/develop-louisville for required documentation.
Submit your application online at https://louisvilleky.gov/government/develop-louisville/permits or in person at the Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services.
Pay the permit fee: $2,000–$8,000.
Wait for plan check approval. Estimated timeline: 6-10 weeks.
Schedule required inspections through https://louisvilleky.gov/government/develop-louisville/inspections. All inspections must pass before project is finalized.
Important: Louisville Metro building permit required. MSD sewer and LG&E connection fees for independent utilities.
Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services
Phone: (502) 574-3131
Website: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/develop-louisville
Online Permits: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/develop-louisville/permits
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-4:30pm
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Louisville-Jefferson County Metro Government and how does it affect permitting?
Louisville-Jefferson County Metro Government (Louisville Metro) was formed in 2003 when voters approved the merger of the City of Louisville and Jefferson County into a single consolidated government. This means one planning and permitting department — Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services — handles zoning, permits, and development for the entire Jefferson County area. You don't have to navigate city vs. county differences. This is similar to Nashville-Davidson County's consolidated structure.
Can I build an ADU on my Louisville property?
Yes. Louisville Metro allows accessory dwelling units on single-family lots under the Land Development Code. Maximum size is typically 900 sqft for detached ADUs. Kentucky has no statewide ADU law — Louisville Metro's local LDC governs. No owner-occupancy requirement. You'll need a building permit from Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services. MSD sewer connection fees and LG&E electrical connection fees apply for independent utility service.
What is Old Louisville and do I need special permits there?
Old Louisville is the largest contiguous preserved Victorian neighborhood in the United States — approximately 45 blocks south of downtown with over 1,400 Victorian-era structures. If your property is in Old Louisville or another locally designated historic district, you may need a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Louisville Landmarks Commission for exterior modifications. This includes roofing, window replacement, additions, and exterior alterations. Contact Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services to check your property's historic status.
What are Louisville's STR (Airbnb) requirements?
Louisville Metro requires a Short-Term Rental License for rentals of 30 days or fewer. Annual fee is approximately $250. License number must appear in all booking platform listings. Occupancy limits (2 per bedroom), noise ordinance, and safety equipment requirements apply. Kentucky's 1% state transient room tax plus Louisville Metro's 8.5% lodging tax apply to STR income.
Is Louisville in a flood zone?
Many Louisville properties near the Ohio River, Beargrass Creek, and other waterways are in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas. The 1937 Ohio River flood was catastrophic for Louisville — the Ohio reached 57 feet above flood stage. Check the FEMA Flood Map Service Center for your property's designation. MSD (Metropolitan Sewer District) administers stormwater and floodplain management for Louisville Metro. Properties in SFHA require flood insurance with federally-backed mortgages.
Source: Louisville Building Code — ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Requirements. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source