Bolthole Index

Clark County, Kentucky

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Clark County, Kentucky

53Index Score / 100
#103 of 120 in Kentucky

Unincorporated Clark County, Kentucky requires a building permit before construction, remodeling or major repair begins, subject to stated exemptions.1 Zoning applies across Winchester and unincorporated Clark County, and onsite sewage systems require a site evaluation, permit and inspection.234

At a glance

Building permit
Required; contact Building Inspections before work starts56
Zoning
County zoning applies in Winchester and unincorporated Clark County7
Septic
Permit and site evaluation required through the local health department38
RV living
Not allowed on a lot in a residential zone9
Tiny home
RV-type tiny homes cannot be occupied on residential-zoned lots; ask Planning about other designs1011
Owner-builder
Building permit still required; a statewide affidavit can replace proof of workers’ compensation coverage for qualifying applicants. Homeowners may obtain plumbing permits for their own residences1213
Agricultural buildings
A conditional zoning exemption applies to land used solely for qualifying agricultural purposes14
Private wells
Use a Kentucky-certified water-well driller; no separate owner-applied permit was confirmed15

Who to call

Building permits

Winchester-Clark County Building Inspections

Building, electrical and demolition permits, plan review, and inspection scheduling throughout Clark County

859-744-7019

inspections@winchesterky.com

32 Wall Street, P.O. Box 40, Winchester, KY 40392

Planning & zoning

Winchester-Clark County Planning & Community Development

Zoning, subdivision review, planning, and floodplain management for Winchester and Clark County

(859) 744-7019

32 Wall Street, P.O. Box 40, Winchester, KY 40392

Septic permits

Clark County Health Department Environmental Office

Onsite sewage site evaluations, applications, permits and inspections in Clark County

(859) 744-1488

273 Shoppers Drive, Winchester, KY 40391

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Clark County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Do you need a building permit in Clark County, Kentucky?

Yes. Unincorporated Clark County requires a permit before construction, remodeling or major repair of a structure begins, subject to the ordinance's exemptions.1 The Building Inspections office says it issues building permits for structures of 200 square feet or larger throughout Clark County, and it also issues electrical and demolition permits and reviews plans.6 Owner-builders still need the building permit; the only exemption confirmed is a statewide one that lets a qualifying applicant file an Affidavit of Exemption with the local building official instead of proving workers’ compensation coverage13. The Kentucky Building Code and Kentucky Residential Code apply under the relevant enforcement arrangement.16

Building-permit fees vary with construction cost, and electrical, plumbing and mechanical work requires a separate permit for each trade.17 Land used solely for qualifying agricultural purposes receives specified exceptions from building-permit, occupancy, height, yard and location controls, but street or highway setbacks can still apply.14 A residence on agricultural land still requires a permit, and agricultural structures in a designated floodway or floodplain may remain fully regulated.118

Who issues building permits in Clark County, Kentucky?

Winchester-Clark County Building Inspections issues building permits throughout Clark County from 32 Wall Street in Winchester.6 The office also handles electrical and demolition permits, reviews plans and schedules inspections by phone or email.6 Inspection requests should be submitted at least 24 hours ahead.6 A new structure or premises proposed for a new use is inspected as part of the certificate-of-occupancy decision.19

Planning & Community Development is the companion office for zoning, subdivision and floodplain questions; it administers the joint zoning, subdivision and floodplain-management rules for Winchester and Clark County.11 Clark County publishes its zoning districts and keeps official zoning maps available for public inspection, so contact Planning for the parcel's district and dimensional schedule before designing.20 Building-permit fees depend on construction cost, while electrical, plumbing and mechanical work each needs a separate trade permit.17

Does Clark County, Kentucky have zoning?

Yes. Clark County's zoning code applies within Winchester and unincorporated Clark County.2 The published districts include agricultural, residential, business, industrial, mobile-home, planned and crossroads-community categories, and official zoning maps are available for public inspection.20

Lot size, setbacks, coverage, height and allowed uses depend on the parcel's district. One published schedule for qualifying lots sets a 43,560-square-foot minimum lot area, 75-foot front yard, 50-foot rear and side yards, 30% maximum coverage and 35-foot maximum height; those figures are not universal countywide standards.21222324 Subdivision and lot division require an approved plat where the regulations apply.25 Qualifying agricultural land receives exceptions from several controls, but street and highway setbacks and floodplain regulation can remain.1418

How do septic permits work in Clark County, Kentucky?

Kentucky's onsite-sewage program is administered through local health departments, and the Clark County Health Department Environmental Office handles local applications and evaluations.26 Start with a site evaluation, which determines the suitable system type and size, then obtain the septic permit before any portion of the system is built.83 Applications are obtained in person at 273 Shoppers Drive in Winchester, and the published onsite-evaluation fee is $200.27

Every onsite system installed, constructed, altered or repaired must be inspected by a certified inspector.4 Only about 2.9% of Clark County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, so make the evaluation a purchase contingency rather than assuming a conventional layout will work.28 Where water or sewer mains are accessible, buildings and mobile homes must connect; otherwise, individual water supply and sewage disposal must meet county and state health requirements.29

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Clark County, Kentucky?

Clark County prohibits using a recreational vehicle for living, sleeping or housekeeping on any lot in a residential zone.9 The definition includes travel trailers, pickup campers, motorized dwellings and tent trailers, so an RV-type tiny home cannot avoid that residential-zone restriction merely by being small.10 We could not confirm a general rule for temporary camping outside that prohibition, so ask Planning about the parcel's district and proposed duration before arriving with an RV.11

We could not confirm a distinct occupancy rule for a tiny home that is not an RV or a universal minimum dwelling size. Ask Planning how the proposed design is classified and which district standards apply.11 A site-built tiny home still requires applicable building approval and approved sewage disposal.13 Manufactured homes have separate placement and occupancy standards, including approved foundations and utility connections for Class A homes; Class D homes are unfit for human occupancy.30

Building a home in Clark County, Kentucky: what to do, in order

  1. Ask Planning & Community Development for the parcel's zoning district, allowed use, dimensional standards and any subdivision or floodplain review.11
  1. Arrange the Health Department site evaluation before fixing the house location, because the evaluation determines the suitable onsite-sewage system.8
  1. Confirm utility availability; accessible mains trigger connection requirements, while individual water and sewage systems need health approval.29
  1. Obtain the zoning permit and building permit before work starts, plus separate trade permits; an owner-builder who claims the workers’ compensation exemption files the Affidavit of Exemption with the local building official at that point13. A zoning permit becomes void after six months without substantial progress.3117
  1. Obtain an encroachment permit before building access along a state or federal road, and confirm any local access approval.32
  1. Schedule building inspections at least 24 hours ahead and complete the required septic inspection.64
  1. Obtain the required certificate of occupancy before using a newly erected or altered structure.33

What should you check before buying land in Clark County, Kentucky?

Verify zoning, legal access, flood status, water and sewage feasibility before the due-diligence period ends. Subdivision lots must abut a paved public street and have physical pedestrian and vehicle access; septic-tank lots must contain at least 43,560 square feet.34 New subdivisions must provide a water-distribution system and a connection for each lot; sewer requirements depend on lot size and whether a public sewer main is reasonably accessible.35 Development in an identified Kentucky floodplain requires state and local permits, and agricultural structures may remain fully regulated there.3637

Septic suitability deserves early attention because only about 2.9% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field.28 Clark County receives about 49.3 inches of precipitation annually, and about 67.9% of its land has a slope of 15% or less; neither countywide figure replaces a parcel survey or site evaluation.3839 The effective property-tax rate is about 0.7%, with a median annual bill of about $1,448, but confirm the actual parcel assessment and exemptions before budgeting.4041

Watch-outs

  • Do not begin work before the building permit is obtained and on the job site.6
  • RV living, sleeping or housekeeping is prohibited on lots in residential zones, including in tiny homes classified as recreational vehicles.910
  • A farm-use exception does not remove floodplain regulation or every street and highway setback.1418
  • Clark County's official septic page directs onsite applicants to the Environmental Office, but one paragraph mistakenly names Fayette County; confirm Clark County-specific details by phone.8

Sources

  1. Clark County Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  2. Clark County Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  3. 902 KAR 10:085 Kentucky on-site sewage disposal systems, quoted and re-checked
  4. 902 KAR 10:085 System Installation Inspection, quoted and re-checked
  5. Clark County Ordinances (2026 county census)
  6. Winchester-Clark County Building Inspections (winchesterky.com)
  7. Clark County Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  8. Clark County Health Department Environmental Office (clarkhealthdept.org)
  9. clarkcoky.com, quoted and re-checked
  10. County Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  11. Winchester-Clark County Planning & Community Development (winchesterky.com)
  12. Division of Plumbing Fee Change and Permit Information (Kentucky statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. 120 KAR 1:210 — Affidavit of exemption from KRS Chapter 342, quoted and re-checked
  14. clarkcoky.com, quoted and re-checked
  15. 401 KAR 6:320. Certification of water well drillers and water well driller assistants (Kentucky statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  16. Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction, quoted and re-checked
  17. Clark County Planning Department FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  18. clarkcoky.com, quoted and re-checked
  19. § 155.037 Certificates of Occupancy, quoted and re-checked
  20. Chapter 155: Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  21. Clark County Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  22. Clark County Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  23. Clark County Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  24. Clark County Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  25. Clark County Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  26. Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems Program, quoted and re-checked
  27. Septic System Approval, Permit, And Site Evaluations, quoted and re-checked
  28. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  29. clarkcoky.com, quoted and re-checked
  30. Clark County Ordinances — §§ 155.110 and 155.129, quoted and re-checked
  31. Clark County Planning Department FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  32. clarkcoky.com, quoted and re-checked
  33. § 155.037 Certificates of Occupancy, quoted and re-checked
  34. Clark County Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  35. Clark County Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  36. Find Your Flood Zone (Kentucky statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  37. § 155.006 Agricultural Land Use Exceptions, quoted and re-checked
  38. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  39. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  40. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  41. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like 4 of its 6 neighbors, Clark County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleClark CountyMontgomery CountyBourbon CountyFayette CountyMadison CountyNicholas CountyJessamine County
Building permitRequiredNot requiredRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedRequired
County zoningYesNoYesYesYesNoYes
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.Lexington-Fayette County Health Dept.County Health Dept.WEDCO District Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Clark County in Kentucky

53
County map
Clark County highlighted among the Kentucky counties · colored by Index score

How Clark County scores

Seclusion28100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency65100% ev.
Admin Boringness4190% ev.
Durability78100% ev.
Property Autonomy33100% ev.
Carry Cost8196% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$258kTypical home
0.7%Property tax
$5,480Land / acre
49.3"Annual rain
1.2% of yrsSevere drought
6.3 / yr (+6)Mid-century 100°F days
12.5 daysMid-century dry spell
1.9" (+10.6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.8×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,334Home insurance / yr
0.1% / yrInsurance growth
0.39%Nonrenewal rate
single ZIP shrunk to state medianInsurance basis
75,105People within 30 min
4,351,532People within 2 hr
99,152Radius comparison (15 mi)
147.7People / sq mi
0%Federal land
67.9%Land at 15% slope or less
2.9%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
4,263 acWorkable land screen
31.2%Wooded land
64.1 tonsBiomass / forest ac
55.5°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Clark County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Winchester

Answers from the rulebook for Clark County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Clark County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, remodeling, or major repair of any structure in the unincorporated areas of Clark County, Kentucky.

    • A permit must be secured from the Building Inspector’s office before work commences.
    • The requirement is subject to the order’s stated exemptions, including the agricultural land-use exception tied to the State Building Code definition of agricultural property.
    • A residence constructed, remodeled, or repaired upon agricultural land is not deemed an agricultural building and requires a permit.
    • For structures in a County Fiscal Court-designated floodplain, no permit may be issued unless all requirements imposed by local, state, or federal governmental agencies are met.
    • The ordinance was passed on April 7, 1976.
    • Permit fees apply according to construction valuation: less than $1,000 has no fee; additional valuation through $25,000 is $3 per thousand; through $50,000 is $2.50 per thousand; through $100,000 is $1.50 per thousand; and the next listed valuation tier is $1 per thousand.
    • No fee is required for an agricultural building for which a permit must be obtained because the building lies within the floodplain.
    • The county ordinance adopts the Kentucky Building Code for areas outside the corporate limits of the City of Winchester; incorporated-area requirements may differ.

    permit fee for valuation less than $1000: 0 USD · permit fee for additional valuation through $25000: per 3 USD per $1000 or fraction · permit fee for additional valuation through $50000: per 2.5 USD per $1000 or fraction · permit fee for additional valuation through $100000: per 1.5 USD per $1000 or fraction · permit fee for next listed valuation tier: per 1 USD per $1000 or fraction

    “No person, firm, or corporation shall commence the construction, remodeling, or major repair of any structure except as exempt as hereinafter set forth in this order within the unincorporated areas of the county, without first securing from the Building Inspector’s office, a permit for the construction, remodeling or major repair of any structure.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    New structures and premises for which a new use is proposed under Clark County zoning administration.

    • The Enforcement Officer inspects the new structure or premises.
    • The inspection occurs in connection with issuing or refusing a certificate of occupancy.
    • The officer must issue or refuse the certificate within five days after the new use is ready to commence.

    inspection decision deadline: 5 days (after the date on which the new use is ready to commence)

    “The Enforcement Officer shall inspect a new structure or the premises for which a new use is proposed”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Use of newly erected or altered structures and changes in premises use under Chapter 155.

    • A certificate is required before use or occupancy unless an exception elsewhere in the chapter applies.
    • The County Health Officer’s certificate must accompany applications according to chapter requirements.
    • The Enforcement Officer issues or refuses after inspection within five days after readiness for the new use.

    issuance decision deadline: 5 days (after the date on which the new use is ready to commence)

    “It shall be unlawful to use any newly erected or altered structure”
  • County-wide zoningPresent

    County zoning code applicable to Winchester and the unincorporated area of Clark County.

    • The ordinance states that zoning districts apply throughout the City of Winchester and the county.
    • Agricultural and floodplain exceptions apply under the code.
    “All existing and future structures and uses of premises within the City of Winchester and the unincorporated area of the county shall conform with all applicable provisions of the zoning order.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Construction and land use governed by Clark County Chapter 155 zoning regulations.
      “hereby adopt the following provisions as the county’s zoning code.”
    • Present (with conditions) — The Clark County zoning code applies throughout the City of Winchester and the unincorporated area of Clark County.
      “All existing and future structures and uses of premises within the City of Winchester and the unincorporated area of the county shall conform with all applicable provisions of the zoning order.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    The Clark County zoning code applies within the City of Winchester and the unincorporated area of Clark County.

    • The zoning code is jointly adopted by the City of Winchester Board of Commissioners and the County Fiscal Court.
    • Agricultural land used solely for agricultural, farming, dairying, stock-raising, or similar purposes is exempt from specified zoning regulations, subject to street/highway setback and floodway/floodplain exceptions.
    “All existing and future structures and uses of premises within the City of Winchester and the unincorporated area of the county shall conform with all applicable provisions of the zoning order.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Zoning districts and maps for Winchester and unincorporated Clark County.

    • The zoning map is adopted by reference and declared part of the zoning chapter.
    • Official maps are maintained for public inspection by the Planning Commission or Zoning Enforcement Officer, County Court Clerk, and Winchester City Clerk.
    • Map amendments must be posted within 30 days after final approval.

    map-amendment posting deadline: 30 days (after final approval)

    “The City of Winchester and the unincorporated area of the county are hereby divided into zones and districts as provided and described herein, and as shown on the zoning map which is hereby adopted by reference and declared to be a part of this chapter.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — The district categories listed in Clark County Chapter 155.
      “Agricultural District (A-1) [...] Single-Family Residential (R-1A) [...] Mobile Home District [...] Planned Development District [...] Crossroads Community District”
    • Published (with conditions) — Clark County zoning districts and zoning map.
      “A complete and accurate copy of each of the official zoning maps shall be filed and available for public inspection”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Lots governed by Clark County zoning and subdivision regulations.

    • Minimum lot area varies by zoning district and utility availability.
    • Subdivision lots permitted with septic tanks must be at least 43,560 square feet.
    • Examples in the zoning code include 43,560 square feet without sanitary sewer in several districts, while sewered districts have smaller district-specific minimums.

    minimum lot area for septic-tank lots: >= 43560 square feet (subdivision lots permitted with septic tanks) · minimum agricultural district lot area: >= 43560 square feet (A-1 example; district rules and exceptions apply)

    “Lots shall meet the minimum standards required by the zoning ordinance. All lots permitted with septic tanks shall be of at least 43,560 square feet in size, as covered by § 153.128(D).”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    At least one Clark County zoning-district dimensional schedule for lots of five acres or more.

    • The schedule states minimum front, rear, and side yards of 75, 50, and 50 feet respectively.

    minimum front yard: 75 feet · minimum rear yard: 50 feet · minimum side yard: 50 feet

    “Minimum front yard 75 feet [...] Minimum rear yard 50 feet Minimum side yard 50 feet”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    At least one Clark County zoning-district dimensional schedule for lots of five acres or more.

    • The cited schedule sets a maximum lot coverage of 30 percent.

    maximum lot coverage: <= 30 percent

    “Maximum lot coverage 30% Minimum front yard 75 feet Minimum lot area 43,560 square feet (1 acre)”
  • Building heightSpecified

    At least one Clark County zoning-district dimensional schedule for lots of five acres or more.

    • The cited schedule sets a maximum height of 35 feet.

    maximum height: <= 35 feet

    “Maximum height 35 feet Maximum lot coverage 30% Minimum front yard 75 feet”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Living, sleeping, or housekeeping in recreational vehicles on residential-zoned lots.

    • The prohibition applies on lots in a residential zone.
    • Parking or storage in a public right-of-way in a residential zone is also prohibited except for loading or unloading.
    • The definition includes boats, boat trailers, travel trailers, pick-up campers, coaches, motorized dwellings, and tent trailers.
    “No recreational vehicle shall be used for living, sleeping, or housekeeping purposes on any lot in a residential zone; nor shall any recreational vehicle be parked or stored in or upon any public right-of-way in a residential zone, except for the purpose of loading or unloading the same.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Prohibited — Use of recreational vehicles for living, sleeping, or housekeeping on lots in residential zones.
      “No recreational vehicle shall be used for living, sleeping, or housekeeping purposes on any lot in a residential zone”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Tiny homes that are recreational vehicles, including travel trailers, motorized dwellings, tent trailers, or similar units, when used for living, sleeping, or housekeeping in Clark County residential zones.

    • The county code prohibits recreational-vehicle use for living, sleeping, or housekeeping on any lot in a residential zone.
    • The code also prohibits parking or storage of a recreational vehicle in a public right-of-way in a residential zone, except for loading or unloading.
    • The code defines recreational vehicle to include boats, boat trailers, travel trailers, pick-up campers, coaches designed to be mounted on automotive vehicles, motorized dwellings, tent trailers, and the like.
    • The code does not define or specifically regulate a non-recreational-vehicle tiny home by that label; other building, zoning, sewage, and health requirements may apply.
    • The code library states that the current text is 2025 S-4 and cautions that the official printed copy should be consulted. Incorporated municipalities may have separate rules.
    “No recreational vehicle shall be used for living, sleeping, or housekeeping purposes on any lot in a residential zone; nor shall any recreational vehicle be parked or stored in or upon any public right-of-way in a residential zone, except for the purpose of loading or unloading the same.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Residential occupancy and placement of manufactured homes regulated by the Clark County zoning code.

    • Manufactured home parks, complexes, and subdivisions may contain Classes A, B, or C manufactured homes; Class D homes are unfit for human occupancy under the classification provision.
    • A Class A home must meet federal and state construction and safety standards, be permanently attached to an approved foundation, have wheels and trailer-tongue assemblies removed, be connected to approved water and sewer, and satisfy appearance standards.
    • Manufactured home parks, complexes, and subdivisions require at least 10 acres, initially at least 10 spaces, and no more than eight manufactured homes per gross acre.
    • Individual-lot requirements include maximum height 35 feet, maximum lot coverage 30%, minimum front and rear yards 20 feet, minimum side yard 10 feet, minimum lot area 2,400 square feet with sanitary sewer or one acre without sanitary sewer, and minimum lot width 35 feet.
    • A park application must be submitted to the Winchester-Clark County Planning Commission with a development plan; state community authorization is required before the zoning permit, and each individual lot requires a building permit or certificate of occupancy.

    minimum park area: >= 10 acres · initial spaces: >= 10 spaces (when development is staged) · maximum density: <= 8 manufactured homes per gross acre · minimum lot area with sanitary sewer: >= 2400 square feet · minimum lot area without sanitary sewer: >= 1 acre · maximum lot coverage: <= 30 percent · maximum height: <= 35 feet

    “Principal uses permitted: manufactured home parks, complexes, and subdivisions containing manufactured homes of Classes A, B, or C or any combination thereof.”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Local administration of on-site sewage approvals and evaluations in Clark County by the Clark County Health Department under state requirements.

    • Applications for onsite evaluation are obtained at 273 Shoppers Drive.
    • The page states an onsite evaluation fee of $200.00.
    • The page contains a conflicting reference to Fayette County in its description of individual sewage disposal systems; that statement was not treated as a Clark County-specific rule.

    onsite evaluation fee: 200 USD

    “Applications for Onsite will be obtained in person at 273 Shoppers Dr. Onsite evaluation fees: $200.00.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Local (with conditions) — On-site sewage evaluations, permits, and inspections administered for property in Clark County through the local health department.
      “The Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems Program is administered through local health departments”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Individual water supply and sewage disposal used where public water or sewer mains are not accessible.

    • The County Health Officer must approve the facilities before construction or mobile-home occupancy.
    • Individual systems must satisfy county Health Department and state Department of Health requirements.
    • A septic permit and applicable site evaluation requirements also apply.
    “individual water supply and sewage disposal must meet the requirements”
  • Mandatory utility hookupWater and sewer (with conditions)

    Subdivision development in Clark County.

    • Every subdivision must provide a complete water distribution system with a connection for each lot.
    • For lots under 43,560 square feet, a public sanitary sewer main is required.
    • If a public sewer main is not reasonably accessible, individual disposal systems may be considered for lots of 43,560 square feet or greater, subject to officials with jurisdiction.

    minimum lot size for individual disposal consideration: >= 43560 square feet (only when a public sanitary sewer main is not reasonably accessible)

    “Every subdivision shall be provided with a complete water distribution system adequate to serve the area being platted, including a connection for each lot.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — Buildings and mobile homes in Clark County requiring water supply and sewage disposal.
      “Wherever water or sewer mains are accessible, buildings and mobile homes shall be connected to such mains.”
    • Conditional — Water and sewage facilities for premises regulated by Chapter 155.
      “Wherever water or sewer mains are accessible, buildings and mobile homes shall be connected to such mains.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Land used solely for agricultural, farming, dairying, stock-raising, or similar purposes, for agricultural buildings under Chapter 155.

    • The exemption does not apply to setback requirements needed to protect existing and proposed streets and highways.
    • Buildings or structures in a designated floodway or floodplain, or tending to increase flood heights or obstruct flood flow, may be fully regulated.
    • The exemption concerns building permits, certificates of occupancy, height, yard, location, and court requirements for agricultural buildings.
    “except that setback may be required for the protection of existing and proposed streets and highways”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Land used solely for agricultural, farming, dairying, stock-raising, or similar purposes, and agricultural buildings under Chapter 155.
      “land which is used solely for agricultural, farming, dairying, stock-raising, or similar purposes shall have no regulations imposed as to building permits”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision design and improvements in Clark County.

    • Lots must abut a paved public street and have physical pedestrian and vehicular access.
    • Double-frontage lots are prohibited except for stated traffic or separation purposes.
    • Minimum lot standards derive from the zoning ordinance; septic-tank lots must be at least 43,560 square feet.

    minimum septic-tank lot area: >= 43560 square feet

    “All lots shall abut a paved, public street and shall have readily apparent physical means of pedestrian and vehicular access from the lot onto the street.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision and lot-division activity governed by Chapter 155 and applicable subdivision regulations.
      “no land shall be subdivided, transferred, sold, or agreed to be sold until after a plat of such land is prepared and approved”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Private driveway access points in subdivisions and access points along state or federal roads.

    • Driveways may not divert storm water away from curb and gutter or extend into curb, gutter, or paved street area.
    • An encroachment permit is required before construction of an access point along state or federal roads, and as required by local jurisdictions.
    • Public-right-of-way driveway approaches must be concrete.
    “Prior to the construction of any such access point along any state and/or federal roads, and as required by local jurisdictions, an encroachment permit shall be required.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Agricultural buildings and structures in designated floodways or floodplains, or structures tending to increase flood heights or obstruct floodwater flow.

    • The agricultural exemption does not prevent full regulation of buildings or structures in a designated floodway or floodplain.
    • Structures that tend to increase flood heights or obstruct floodwater flow may be fully regulated.
    • The reviewed source did not establish the separate floodplain permit process or numeric standards.
    “all buildings or structures in a designated floodway or floodplain [...] may be fully regulated.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Agricultural buildings and structures in designated floodways or floodplains under Chapter 155.
      “all buildings or structures in a designated floodway or floodplain or which tend to increase flood heights or obstruct the flow of flood water may be fully regulated.”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Clark County building-permit fees and zoning-permit fees.

    • The building-permit price is calculated using construction cost.
    • Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work requires a separate permit for each trade.
    • The Planning Commission may establish reasonable zoning-permit fees, subject to approval by city and county legislative bodies.
    • No numeric fee schedule was established in the reviewed pages.

    building permit fee basis: cost of construction

    “The price of the permit is calculated using the cost of the construction.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Permit processPartial

    Clark County construction and zoning permit process.

    • A building permit is required for covered construction.
    • Work may not legally begin before the permit is obtained and on the work site.
    • A zoning permit is required before construction or alteration of a structure under Chapter 155.
    • The Enforcement Officer acts on zoning-permit applications within one week of submission.
    • A zoning permit becomes void six months after issuance unless substantial progress has been made.

    zoning permit action deadline: 1 week (from submission) · zoning permit duration: 6 months (unless substantial progress has been made)

    “The Enforcement Officer shall act upon applications for zoning permits within one week from the date of their submission.”

Kentucky rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    A builder or permit applicant in Clark County, Kentucky seeking exemption from providing workers' compensation coverage proof for a building permit under Kentucky law.

    • The exemption is statewide under Kentucky law and applies when the person is exempt under KRS 342.650(2) or the contractor is otherwise exempt from KRS Chapter 342.
    • KRS 342.650(2) covers a person employed for no more than twenty consecutive work days to perform maintenance, repair, remodeling, or similar work in or about the employer's private home, or, when the employer has no other employees subject to Chapter 342, at premises where the employer conducts a trade, business, or profession.
    • Before issuance of a building permit, the exempt person or contractor must certify the exemption to the local building official in writing on the prescribed form instead of providing proof of workers' compensation coverage.
    • The applicable individual or corporation/partnership Affidavit of Exemption must be submitted to the local building official.
    • The local building official must immediately file the original affidavit with the Kentucky Department of Workers' Claims and retain a copy in the local permit office.
    • The current regulation states an effective date of June 29, 2026 for recodified 120 KAR 1:210.

    maximum consecutive work days under KRS 342.650(2): <= 20 days (Maintenance, repair, remodeling, or similar work in or about a private home; alternatively, work at business premises where the employer has no other employees subject to Chapter 342.)

    “A person who is exempt under the exception contained in KRS 342.650(2), and any contractor otherwise exempt from this chapter, shall so certify”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — An individual property owner performing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning work on property the individual owns and occupies.
      “KRS 198B.650 to 198B.689 shall not apply to: [...] (3) An individual owner of real property while practicing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning work on or within property owned and occupied by the individual;”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Buildings constructed statewide in Kentucky, including residential and nonresidential construction subject to the Kentucky Building Code and Kentucky Residential Code.

    • The 2015 International Building Code is the mandatory state building code for buildings constructed in Kentucky, subject to Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Building Code.
    • One-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, and townhouses are governed by 815 KAR 7:125 and the 2015 International Residential Code with Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Residential Code.
    • Permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy are not required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.
    • Residential occupancies that are not single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, or townhouses must comply with the 2015 International Building Code and the 2018 Kentucky Building Code.
    • Manufactured homes are governed by KRS 227.550 through 227.665.

    base building code: 2015 International Building Code (Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Building Code supersede conflicting provisions) · residential code: 2015 International Residential Code; 2018 Kentucky Residential Code amendments (Applies to single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, and townhouses under 815 KAR 7:125) · mandatory effective date: 2019-01-01

    “Building Code. The 2015 International Building shall be the mandatory state building code for all buildings constructed in Kentucky except that: (1) The Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Building Code shall supersede any conflicting provision in the 2015 International Building Code; (2) One (1) family dwellings, two (2) family dwellings, and townhouses shall be governed by 815 KAR 7:125; and (3) Manufactured homes shall be governed by KRS 227.550 through 227.665.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Kentucky Building Code and Kentucky Residential Code applicable in Kentucky, including Clark County subject to the applicable enforcement arrangement.
      “The Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction adopted the 2018 Kentucky Building Code, Second Edition”
    • Adopted — Kentucky Building Code and Kentucky Residential Code applicable in Clark County.
      “The Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction adopted the 2018 Kentucky Building Code, Second Edition and the 2018 Kentucky Residential Code, Second Edition on August 3, 2019.”
    • Adopted — Mandatory Kentucky residential building-code standards for single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, and townhouses constructed statewide, including unincorporated areas.
      “Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the 2015 International Residential Code for One (1) and Two (2) Family Dwellings (IRC) shall be the mandatory state residential building code for all single-family dwellings, two (2) family dwellings, and townhouses constructed in Kentucky, except that the Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Residential Code shall supersede any conflicting provision in the 2015 IRC.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Camping or sleeping in the specified public and private pedestrian or vehicle-use areas statewide.

    • The person must knowingly enter or remain in a listed area with intent to sleep or camp.
    • The area must not have been designated for sleeping or camping, or the individual must lack authorization to sleep or camp there.
    • The listed areas include streets, sidewalks, areas under bridges or underpasses, paths, parks, cemeteries, and other areas designated for pedestrians or vehicles, including ingress or egress areas to businesses, homes, or public buildings.
    • The first offense is a violation; a second or subsequent offense, or a first offense where the person refuses to cease, is a Class B misdemeanor.
    • The section does not prohibit customary and temporary use of recreational camping areas, rest areas, or other properties specifically designated for resting or sleeping.
    • Temporary sleeping in a vehicle parked lawfully on a public road, street, or parking lot is not prevented when sleeping and parking occur for less than twelve (12) hours.

    temporary vehicle sleeping period: < 12 hours (The vehicle must be parked lawfully on a public road, street, or parking lot.)

    “A person is guilty of unlawful camping when he or she knowingly enters or remains on a public or private street, sidewalk, area under a bridge or underpass, path, park, cemetery, or other area designated for use by pedestrians or vehicles, including areas used for ingress or egress to businesses, homes, or public buildings, with the intent to sleep or camp in that area, when the area has not been designated for the purpose of sleeping or camping or the individual lacks authorization to sleep or camp in the area.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Temporary camping locations for unsheltered homeless individuals designated by local governments under Kentucky law.
      “A local government may designate indoor or outdoor areas with defined boundaries in an area zoned for commercial or industrial use, separate from any area frequently used for public purposes, as a temporary camping location for unsheltered homeless individuals.”
    • Limited — Temporary parking of recreational vehicles on public or private property associated with specified publicly announced events.
      “Nothing in KRS 219.310 to 219.410 shall be construed to apply to the temporary parking of recreational vehicles on public or private property, for not more than thirty (30) days, associated with festivals, fairs, sporting events, yard sales, or other publicly announced events.”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Accessory dwelling units on lots containing a single-family home in a county containing a consolidated local government, when a new lease is initiated after June 27, 2025 and the lot is in a traditional single-family home zone.

    • The owner may not lease or allow the accessory dwelling unit to be occupied unless the owner primarily resides in the single-family home, multifamily housing unit, or accessory dwelling unit on the lot.
    • The restriction applies only in a county containing a consolidated local government.
    • A traditional single-family home zone is a zone that, as of January 1, 2025, did not include multifamily homes as a permitted use.
    • The restriction does not apply to a lot containing only one single-family home and no accessory dwelling unit.
    • The statutory effective date is June 27, 2025.

    new lease applicability date: > 2025-06-27 (The statute applies to new leases initiated after June 27, 2025.)

    “In a county containing a consolidated local government, for new leases initiated after June 27, 2025, a property owner shall not lease or allow to be occupied any single-family home, multifamily housing unit, or accessory dwelling unit located on a lot that contains a single-family home and that is located in a traditional single-family home zone, unless the owner primarily resides in the single-family home or multifamily housing unit or an accessory dwelling unit on the lot.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction, installation, or alteration of an on-site sewage disposal system in Clark County.

    • A site evaluation precedes the permit.
    • The application must include a detailed drawing, specifications, and required permit fees.
    • The permit may be issued only by a certified inspector to a certified installer or homeowner as provided in 902 KAR 10:110.
    • The permit expires one year after issuance unless the Cabinet grants an extension.
    • Each individual subdivision lot or site must be evaluated individually.
    • A local health department may adopt more specific subdivision requirements if they do not conflict with the regulation.

    permit expiration: 1 year (unless an extension is granted by the Cabinet)

    “After the site evaluation has been conducted, a permit to construct, install, or alter an on-site sewage disposal system shall be obtained prior to construction of any portion of that system.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction, installation, or alteration of an on-site sewage disposal system in Clark County under Kentucky law.
      “a permit to construct, install, or alter an on-site sewage disposal system shall be obtained prior to construction”
    • Required — Construction, installation, or alteration of an onsite sewage disposal system subject to Kentucky Cabinet regulation.
      “a permit to construct, install, or alter an on-site sewage disposal system shall be obtained prior to construction of any portion of that system.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Every Kentucky onsite sewage disposal system that is installed, constructed, altered, or repaired.

    • Inspection must be by a certified inspector.
    • The installer must request that the installation inspection be scheduled and completed before the system is backfilled.
    • An installer affidavit may substitute for an initial inspection in the circumstances specified by the regulation, but the installation inspection requirement remains applicable.
    • A variance may not waive site evaluation or system inspection.
    “Every on-site sewage disposal system installed, constructed, altered, or repaired shall be inspected by a certified inspector.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — On-site sewage disposal systems installed, constructed, altered, or repaired in Clark County.
      “Every on-site sewage disposal system installed, constructed, altered, or repaired shall be inspected by a certified inspector.”
    • Required — Every on-site sewage disposal system installed, constructed, altered, or repaired in Clark County.
      “Every on-site sewage disposal system installed, constructed, altered, or repaired shall be inspected by a certified inspector.”
  • Well permitNot required

    Construction or abandonment of a private water well by a property owner statewide in Kentucky.

    • Construction, modification, and abandonment must be performed by a Kentucky Certified Water Well Driller.
    • The certified driller must complete and submit required documentation within sixty days after completion.
    • The conclusion concerns owner permitting applications and fees; it does not eliminate the separate driller-certification requirement.

    well documentation submission deadline: 60 days after completion

    “there are no permitting applications or fees for constructing or abandoning a water well required of the property owner.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Campground & park staysTemporary only (with conditions)

    Sleeping temporarily in a recreational vehicle or other vehicle in a vehicle-based location covered by KRS 511.110.

    • The vehicle must be parked lawfully on a public road, street, or parking lot.
    • Sleeping and parking at the location must occur for less than twelve (12) hours.
    • This provision does not establish permission for long-term or permanent RV occupancy on private land.
    • KRS 511.110 separately prohibits camping in specified areas when the area has not been designated for sleeping or camping or the person lacks authorization.

    maximum sleeping and parking period: < 12 hours

    “Nothing in this section shall prevent a person from sleeping temporarily in his or her vehicle parked lawfully on a public road, street, or parking lot, where the sleeping and parking of the vehicle at the location occur for a period of less than twelve (12) hours.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Kentucky counties' statutory authority to enact zoning regulations, including county-regulated areas outside incorporated municipalities as determined by the applicable planning-unit and political-boundary structure.

    • The statute expressly authorizes both cities and counties to enact zoning regulations.
    • A zoning regulation must contain text listing the types of zones and regulations applicable in each zone, uniform throughout the zone, and provisions for variances, conditional-use permits, and nonconforming uses.
    • Authorized subjects include land activities, structure dimensions and locations, open-space and distance requirements, density, special-interest districts, fringe areas, and activities or structures near thoroughfares, water bodies, public facilities, aircraft facilities, unique places, and floodplains.
    • Agricultural land must have no regulations except that setback lines may be required for streets and highways; floodway or floodplain buildings or structures may be fully regulated; mobile homes and other dwellings may be regulated; and uses under KRS 100.111(2)(c) may be regulated as conditional uses.
    • The applicable planning unit and political boundaries determine the area governed by a county zoning regulation.
    “Cities and counties may enact zoning regulations which shall contain:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — Kentucky counties may adopt permanent land-use regulations, including zoning, through the applicable planning-unit process; this authority reaches county jurisdiction, including unincorporated areas, subject to the statutory planning prerequisites.
      “When all required elements of the comprehensive plan have been adopted in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, then the legislative bodies and fiscal courts within the planning unit may enact permanent land use regulations, including zoning and other kinds of growth management regulations”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Kentucky fiscal courts may adopt and enforce construction regulations and may require building permits for construction in the county, including residential construction in unincorporated areas.

    • The construction regulations must be adopted by county order or resolution.
    • The regulations operate pursuant to KRS 198B.060 and the Uniform State Building Code framework.
    • A county building inspector may administer the regulations.
    • No person may build, erect, construct, reconstruct, remodel, relocate, alter, or repair a building within the county without first obtaining a building permit from the building inspector when the county permit system applies.
    • Permit fees must be reasonable and may not exceed the cost of the service provided.
    • A person aggrieved by the building inspector's ruling, order, or decision may appeal under KRS 198B.070.

    permit fee ceiling: <= cost of the service provided

    “The fiscal court of any county shall have authority, by order or resolution, to adopt, and to enforce, regulations governing construction as defined by KRS 198B.010 pursuant to the provisions of KRS 198B.060.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — Kentucky county authority, as a local government, to enforce the Uniform State Building Code and issue building permits within its jurisdiction, including unincorporated residential construction.
      “Each local government shall employ a building official or inspector and other code enforcement personnel as necessary, or shall contract for inspection and code enforcement services in accordance with subsections (8) and (11) of this section to enforce the Uniform State Building Code within the boundaries of its jurisdiction, except that permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy shall not be mandatory for single-family residences unless a local government passes an ordinance requiring inspections of single-family residences.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling-size requirements in Clark County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Clark County.

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Clark County, Kentucky

Is Clark County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Clark County scores 53/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and mixed durability signals. Watch-outs: about 75,105 people within a 30-minute drive and a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop.

Do you need a building permit in Clark County, Kentucky?

Clark County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Clark County Health Department, Environmental Office. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Clark County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Clark County is limited to specific cases: Living, sleeping, or housekeeping in recreational vehicles on residential-zoned lots. The prohibition applies on lots in a residential zone. Parking or storage in a public right-of-way in a residential zone is also prohibited except for loading or unloading. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Clark County, Kentucky?

Land in Clark County runs about $5,480 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Clark County?

Clark County gets about 49.3" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 1.2% of years.

How remote is Clark County?

A representative private-land location has about 75,105 people within a 30-minute drive and 4,351,532 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Clark compares in Kentucky

Compare side-by-side →See all 120 Kentucky counties ranked →