Permit Requirements for Paris, Kentucky

For Plumbing projects in Paris, determining the correct permitting authority depends on whether the project site is located within the incorporated city limits or in an unincorporated area of Bourbon County.

Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)

Most jurisdictions require permits for Plumbing work to ensure safety and code compliance. The governing body responsible for issuing these permits varies by specific location:

General Plumbing Guidelines

Permits are usually required for new installations, structural modifications, or major repairs. While minor maintenance or cosmetic updates may be exempt, landowners should always verify local codes before work begins.

Because Paris is located within Bourbon County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:

Kentucky, Bourbon County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

Bourbon County Plumbing Permit Requirements

In Bourbon County, Kentucky, a building permit is required for any work that involves constructing, enlarging, altering, repairing, moving, demolishing, or changing the occupancy of a building or structure. This also includes the installation, removal, conversion, or replacement of any electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system.

Plumbing permits specifically need to be pulled by the licensed plumber through the Bourbon County Health Department.

For properties in unincorporated areas of Bourbon County, the Bourbon County Joint Planning Office handles building, zoning, code enforcement, and floodplain management.

The Bourbon County Joint Planning Office processes building and electrical permits. They require a seven to ten business day processing time upon application submittal.

When applying for a building permit, you will need to submit a site plan, building plans (including elevations and floor plans), contractor information, and potentially a site evaluation for a septic system.

For plumbing permits, it is recommended to contact the Bourbon County Health Department directly for specific requirements and procedures.

The Bourbon County Joint Planning Office serves the Cities of Millersburg, North Middletown, Paris, and unincorporated Bourbon County.

Resources to Learn More

The following statewide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Kentucky:

Kentucky Plumbing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

Kentucky Plumbing Statutes and Codes

Plumbing in Kentucky is primarily governed by Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) Chapter 318, which establishes the legal framework for the practice of plumbing, licensing requirements, and the authority to promulgate the state plumbing code. The technical standards for plumbing installations, materials, and methods are set forth in the Kentucky State Plumbing Code, which is codified under 815 KAR Chapter 20 of the Kentucky Administrative Regulations.

Unlike some other building codes that may adopt a specific edition of the International Plumbing Code (IPC) by reference, the Kentucky State Plumbing Code is a distinct set of regulations developed and maintained by the state. While it incorporates industry standards, it is specifically promulgated by the state department to address local, climatic, and regulatory conditions within the Commonwealth.

Regulatory Agencies

The primary state agency responsible for the administration, oversight, and enforcement of plumbing standards and licensing in Kentucky is the Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC), specifically through its Division of Plumbing. This division is responsible for:

While the DHBC maintains state-level authority, certain local jurisdictions may be authorized to administer and enforce the state plumbing code within their boundaries, provided they adhere to state regulations and employ qualified inspectors.

Resources to Learn More

Help Us Improve This Guide

Did you find a dead link, or do you have the direct link to the Paris permit application portal? Help us keep this information accurate by submitting an update.