Bolthole Index

Henry County, Kentucky

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

69Index Score / 100
#31 of 120 in Kentucky

Henry County, Kentucky requires a building permit before a building, manufactured home or other structure covered by its zoning ordinance is erected, moved, enlarged or structurally altered1. Zoning applies countywide through one county ordinance that also covers Eminence, New Castle, Campbellsburg, Pleasureville and Smithfield, and living in a camper or recreational vehicle is prohibited23. Septic permits and inspections for every address come from the North-Central District Health Department, not the zoning office4.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for buildings, manufactured homes and other covered structures1
Zoning
Countywide zoning is in effect5
Septic
Local health department site evaluation, permit and inspection apply67
RV living
A camper or recreational vehicle may not be used as a residence3
Tiny homes
No separate rule confirmed; zoning and building permits still apply81
Owner plumbing
Allowed conditionally for the owner's personal residence9
Minimum lot size
Varies by zoning district and public-sewer availability10
Water wells
No owner permit or fee, but a certified driller must do the work11

Who to call

Planning & zoning

Henry County Planning & Zoning

Zoning, building-permit applications, variances and land-use questions

502-845-5707

19 South Property Road

Septic permits

North-Central District Health Department

Onsite sewage site evaluations, permits and inspections for Henry County; the office is in Shelbyville, in neighboring Shelby County

502-633-1243

1020 Henry Clay St. Shelbyville, KY 40065

Online permits →

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

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

Yes. Henry County requires a building permit before a building, manufactured home or other structure covered by the zoning ordinance is erected, moved, enlarged or structurally altered1. The permit comes from the zoning enforcement officer and, when applicable, the city or county building inspector1. Limited exceptions cover recurring maintenance, low-value alterations, publicly owned utility work, approved subdivision improvements and very small structures1. Kentucky has a mandatory residential building code, while permits, inspections and occupancy certificates for a single-family dwelling depend on a local requirement121314. Henry County supplies the local permit requirement, but we could not confirm whether it operates a single-family inspection program or requires a certificate of occupancy; ask Planning & Zoning which inspections and closeout documents apply1514.

Who issues building permits in Henry County, Kentucky?

Start with Henry County Planning & Zoning for the zoning and building-permit application16. The application must include dimensional drawings showing the proposed structures, lot area, parking, water supply and sewage-disposal facilities, plus preliminary county health approval for the proposed water and sewage facilities16. After zoning approval, the approved copy goes to the city or county building inspector when that review applies16. Normal zoning-permit review is three days under ordinary circumstances16. The Planning Commission establishes the fee schedule, keeps it posted at the zoning enforcement office and may impose a penalty fee when work begins before a required application is filed17. Henry County's Planning & Zoning office administers zoning through a commission and Board of Adjustments representing incorporated cities and magisterial districts5. Septic permits are a separate step that stays with the North-Central District Health Department, in the cities as well as the unincorporated county4. Henry County Planning & Zoning is at 19 South Property Road and can be reached at 502-845-5707, ext. 2.18 The North-Central District Health Department's main office is at 1020 Henry Clay St. in Shelbyville, phone 502-633-1243, and its on-site sewage program covers Henry, Shelby, Spencer and Trimble counties.19

Does Henry County, Kentucky have zoning?

Henry County has zoning administered through a county ordinance and map that also identify Eminence, New Castle, Campbellsburg, Pleasureville and Smithfield2. Minimum lot area varies by district and by public-sewer availability; in the A-1 agricultural district it is 5 acres without public sewer, while A-2 and R-1 lots need 8,000 square feet with public sewer and 20,000 square feet without10. On A-1 tracts of 5 acres or more, garages and outbuildings need 15-foot side and rear setbacks20. Municipal rules may also apply independently inside the incorporated cities5. Before buying, ask Planning & Zoning for the parcel's district and compare the intended dwelling, accessory structures and use with that district. Dividing land is regulated, and mobile-home subdivisions follow the same procedure as conventional-dwelling subdivisions21. Kentucky's farmstead exemption is narrower than a blanket agricultural waiver: it applies to a qualifying farm dwelling and related farm buildings on at least 10 acres outside municipal limits when the property has bona fide agricultural or horticultural use and is registered with the county property valuation administrator22.

How do septic permits work in Henry County, Kentucky?

The North-Central District Health Department handles onsite sewage work for Henry County4. Local health department inspectors perform site evaluations and inspections, and a certified Kentucky onsite septic installer must install the system based on that evaluation7. A homeowner who wants to install the homeowner's own system must first obtain a homeowner permit through the local health department6. Only about 3.3% of Henry County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so arrange the site evaluation before committing to a house location23. Kentucky prohibits seepage pits, cesspools and dry wells as onsite sewage systems except for narrow repair and legacy-lot exceptions24.

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

Henry County prohibits using a camper or recreational vehicle as a residential dwelling3. Recreational-vehicle parks may be considered as conditional uses in specified districts, but that does not authorize residential use of an RV on an individual parcel3. A manufactured home may be used as a dwelling under the zoning ordinance, but it must sit on a fixed permanent foundation with its wheels or mobile parts removed25. A temporary manufactured home must have approved water, sewage disposal and appropriate utility connections when allowed by the Planning Commission's designated administrator26. Henry County does not have a separately confirmed tiny-home rule or minimum dwelling floor area; ask Planning & Zoning how a proposed tiny home will be classified. Any tiny home treated as a building, manufactured home or other covered structure still needs the applicable zoning and building approval1.

What are the steps to build a home in Henry County, Kentucky?

  1. Ask Henry County Planning & Zoning for the parcel's zoning district and current fee schedule517.
  2. Confirm the district's lot and use controls before finalizing the site plan10.
  3. Arrange the local health review because preliminary approval of water and sewage facilities must accompany the zoning application16.
  4. Submit dimensional drawings showing the structures, lot, parking, water supply and sewage disposal16.
  5. Take the approved zoning copy to the city or county building inspector when applicable, and confirm the required inspection and occupancy-certificate sequence161514.
  6. Obtain the plumbing permit before work begins; an eligible homeowner may personally perform code-compliant plumbing for the homeowner's residence after applying and filing the required affidavit9.
  7. If the site lies in an identified floodplain, obtain both state and local floodplain permits before development27.

What should you check before buying land in Henry County?

Confirm zoning, legal access, buildable area, sewage feasibility and floodplain status before closing. Henry County's lot rules vary by district, and subdividing land is regulated1021. Septic feasibility deserves special attention because only about 3.3% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field23. About 52.8% of the county's land has a slope of 15% or less, so parcel-level topography can materially change driveway and homesite costs28. Development in an identified floodplain requires both state and local permits27. Kentucky does not require a property owner to obtain a water-well permit or pay a well-permit fee, but a certified water-well driller must perform construction, modification or abandonment11. The county's effective property-tax rate is about 0.8%, with a median annual property-tax bill near $1,4892930.

Watch-outs

  • Do not treat Kentucky's single-family permit default as the local answer: Henry County has a local permit requirement for covered construction131.
  • Henry County permit fees can change because the Planning Commission establishes and may amend the posted schedule; obtain the current amount from Planning & Zoning before filing17.
  • Residential use of a camper or RV is prohibited; temporary private-land camping, tiny-home treatment, accessory dwellings and minimum dwelling floor area remain unconfirmed, so ask Planning & Zoning about the exact proposal38.

Sources

  1. Henry County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  2. Henry County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  3. Henry County Planning and Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  4. North-Central District Health Department - On-Site Sewage (2026 county census)
  5. Planning & Zoning - Henry County, quoted and re-checked
  6. Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems Program, quoted and re-checked
  7. Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems Program, quoted and re-checked
  8. Planning & Zoning - Henry County (2026 county census)
  9. Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  10. 680 Dimension and Area Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  11. Water Well Information for Home Owners (Kentucky statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. Division of Building Code Enforcement, quoted and re-checked
  13. Henry County Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  14. 815 KAR 7:125 Kentucky Residential Code, quoted and re-checked
  15. Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction - Building Codes, quoted and re-checked
  16. Henry County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  17. Henry County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  18. Henry County Planning & Zoning (henrycounty.ky.gov)
  19. North-Central District Health Department (ncdhd.com)
  20. Henry County Planning and Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  21. Henry County Planning and Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  22. dhbc.ky.gov, quoted and re-checked
  23. 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
  24. 902 KAR 10:085 Kentucky Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems (Kentucky statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  25. Henry County Planning and Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  26. Henry County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  27. Find Your Flood Zone (Kentucky statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  28. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  29. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  30. 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 all 6 of its neighbors, Henry County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleHenry CountyCarroll CountyTrimble CountyOwen CountyOldham CountyShelby CountyFranklin County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesNoYesNoYesYesYes
Septic permitsNorth-Central District Health Dept.Three Rivers District Health Dept.North Central District Health Dept.Three Rivers District Health Dept.County Health Dept.North Central District Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Henry County in Kentucky

69
County map
Henry County highlighted among the Kentucky counties · colored by Index score

How Henry County scores

Seclusion57100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency65100% ev.
Admin Boringness5390% ev.
Durability76100% ev.
Property Autonomy33100% ev.
Carry Cost82100% 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 →

$253kTypical home
0.8%Property tax
$4,807Land / acre
49.5"Annual rain
2.3% of yrsSevere drought
6 / yr (+5.7)Mid-century 100°F days
13.3 daysMid-century dry spell
2.03" (+9.6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.81×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,592Home insurance / yr
-0.7% / yrInsurance growth
0.18%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
3,307People within 30 min
4,612,334People within 2 hr
44,256Radius comparison (15 mi)
55.8People / sq mi
0.1%Federal land
52.8%Land at 15% slope or less
3.3%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
5,253 acWorkable land screen
40.7%Wooded land
49.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
55.3°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Henry 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.

Not yet researched: Campbellsburg · New Castle · Pleasureville · Smithfield

Answers from the rulebook for Henry County

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

Henry County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Buildings, manufactured homes, and other structures in Henry County subject to the zoning ordinance.

    • The permit is issued by the zoning enforcement officer and the city/county building inspector, if applicable.
    • No permit may issue except in conformity with the zoning regulation and other city or county ordinances, unless a Board of Adjustments conditional use or variance order is received.
    • Exceptions include recurring maintenance; alterations with replacement value of $500 or less; construction or service connection to a publicly owned utility; approved subdivision or planned-development improvements; and structures under 15 square feet.
    • Applications require dimensional drawings and preliminary county health approval of proposed water and sewage facilities.
    • The permit expires one year after issuance.

    replacement-value exemption: <= 500 USD (Existing-building alterations) · small-structure exemption: < 15 square feet (Signs excluded) · permit validity: 1 year (From issuance)

    “No building, manufactured home or other structure shall be erected, moved, added to, or structurally altered without a building permit issued by the zoning Enforcement Officer and the city/county building inspector, if applicable.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Erection, movement, addition, or structural alteration of a building, manufactured home, or other structure under the Henry County zoning ordinance.
      “No building, manufactured home or other structure shall be erected, moved, added to, or structurally altered without a building permit issued by the zoning Enforcement Officer and the city/county building inspector, if applicable.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent

    Henry County zoning administration and ordinance coverage.

    • The county zoning commission and board include representatives of incorporated cities and magisterial districts; municipal rules may independently apply within incorporated municipalities.
    “Planning and Zoning for Henry County is headed by Jason Stanley, Administrator. The office is located at 19 South Property Road, and they can be reached at 502-845-5707, ext. 2. The Zoning Commission and Board of Adjustments are composed of representatives of each incorporated city and magisterial district.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present — Henry County zoning authority and zoning administration.
      “This ordinance is entitled “Zoning Ordinance, Henry County, Kentucky,” and may be cited as the “Zoning Ordinance.” The zoning map referred to herein is entitled “Zoning Map, Henry County, Kentucky,” and is hereby made a part of the Zoning Ordinance.”
  • Local zoningPresent

    Zoning regulation administered under the Henry County Zoning Ordinance and applicable within Henry County and incorporated cities identified by the ordinance.

    • The ordinance states that its zoning map covers Henry County and the cities of Eminence, New Castle, Campbellsburg, Pleasureville, and Smithfield.
    • The ordinance states that permitted and conditional uses are provided in each zone within the county and incorporated cities.
    “This ordinance is entitled “Zoning Ordinance, Henry County, Kentucky,” and may be cited as the “Zoning Ordinance.” The zoning map referred to herein is entitled “Zoning Map, Henry County, Kentucky,” and is hereby made a part of the Zoning Ordinance.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Henry County zoning districts and district-specific regulations.

    • The county publishes a zoning ordinance and the ordinance contains district-specific permitted, conditional, dimensional, overlay, manufactured-home, and recreational-vehicle provisions.
    • Some provisions apply within incorporated municipalities or specific overlay districts.
    “When a property with a principle zoning classification also falls within the overlay district, those regulations of the overlay district shall take precedence over the regulations of the principle zoning district.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Lots in Henry County zoning districts.

    • Minimum lot area varies by district and by availability of public sewer.
    • Examples include A-1: 5 acres without public sewer; A-2: 8,000 square feet with public sewer and 20,000 square feet without; R-1: 8,000 square feet with public sewer and 20,000 square feet without.
    • Other districts have separate requirements.

    A-1 minimum lot area without public sewer: 5 acres · A-2 minimum lot area with public sewer: 8000 square feet · A-2 minimum lot area without public sewer: 20000 square feet · R-1 minimum lot area with public sewer: 8000 square feet · R-1 minimum lot area without public sewer: 20000 square feet

    “A-2 AGRICULTURAL RURAL RESIDENTIAL N/A 8,000 SQ. FT. 20,000 SQ. FT. N/A 100’ 15’ 30’ 30’ 50’ 100’”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Small Lot Residential overlay district in the incorporated City of Smithfield.
      “In the SLR overlay district, the minimum lot area with no public sewer shall be 10,000 square feet.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Accessory structures and outbuildings in Henry County zoning districts.

    • For A-1 tracts of five acres or more, side and rear setbacks for garages, outbuildings, and other accessory structures are 15 feet.
    • Several district-specific exceptions provide four-foot side and rear setbacks for specified garages, outbuildings, or accessory structures.

    A-1 accessory-structure side and rear setback on tracts of 5 acres or more: 15 feet · specified R-1, R-2, R-3, B-1, and B-2 accessory setbacks: 4 feet (Applies only to the district-specific structures and conditions listed in the ordinance.)

    “For Zone A-1 on tract of 5 acres or more, the minimum side and rear setback shall be 15 feet for garages and outbuildings and other accessory structures.”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Lots in Henry County zoning districts with a stated maximum lot-coverage percentage.

    • Coverage varies by district.
    • R-1 and R-3 maximum lot coverage is 30%; R-2 is 25%; B-1 is 25%; B-2 is 50%.

    R-1 maximum lot coverage: 30 percent · R-2 maximum lot coverage: 25 percent · R-3 maximum lot coverage: 30 percent · B-1 maximum lot coverage: 25 percent · B-2 maximum lot coverage: 50 percent

    “R-1 RESIDENTIAL SINGLE FAMILY 2 STORIES 8,000 SQ. FT. 20,000 SQ. FT 30%”
  • Living in an RVProhibited

    Residential occupancy of a camper or recreational vehicle in Henry County.

    • The ordinance separately regulates recreational vehicle parks for short stays; this claim concerns residential use of an individual camper or recreational vehicle.
    “It shall be unlawful in Henry County to live in or use any of the following for a residential purpose or residential dwelling: a portable building, boat, automobile, storage container, camper, recreational vehicle, or similar type equipment.”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Permanent manufactured-home residences in Henry County zoning districts.

    • Manufactured homes are allowed only as provided under the referenced zoning sections and Article XV.
    • In an A-1 district, farm-owner, immediate-family, and full-time farm-employee dwelling use requires prior approval of the sanitary waste disposal system and compliance with district setbacks.
    • More than two such homes requires Henry County Planning Commission approval.
    • Density may not exceed one manufactured home per 25 acres under that A-1 exception.
    • Dwelling manufactured homes, except recreational vehicles, must be placed on fixed permanent foundations with wheels or mobile parts removed.
    • The use schedule makes placement permitted, conditional, or not permitted depending on manufactured-home type and district.

    maximum manufactured-home density under A-1 farm exception: per 1 manufactured home per 25 acres

    “Manufactured homes shall be allowed only as provided under Section 640, 650, and 660, this Article and Article XV, Section 1514 and 1520.”
  • Who permits septicLocal (with conditions)

    Onsite sewage administration for Henry County.

    • North Central Health Department serves Henry, Shelby, Spencer, and Trimble counties.
    • Kentucky states that onsite sewage administration is through local health departments.
    “The Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems Program is administered through local health departments and begins with the use of onsite evaluations to determine if site and soil conditions are suitable for onsite wastewater systems.”
  • Septic permitLimited

    A homeowner installing the homeowner's own onsite sewage system in Henry County.

    • The cited state page expressly establishes a homeowner permit for self-installation; it does not establish every permit category or fee.
    “A homeowner who wishes to install his or her own system must obtain a homeowner’s permit through the local health department.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Onsite sewage site evaluations and inspections in Henry County through the North Central Health Department.

    • The statewide page states that local health department onsite septic inspectors perform site evaluations and inspections in Kentucky.
    • A certified Kentucky onsite septic installer must install the system based on the site-evaluation results.
    “The local health department onsite septic system inspectors perform site evaluations and inspections in Kentucky.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Applications for permission to build or replace a structure under the Henry County zoning ordinance.

    • Applications must show water supply and sewage disposal facilities.
    • The County Health Officer’s certificate preliminarily approving proposed water and sewage facilities must accompany applications.
    • The cited ordinance does not establish that public water or public sewer is universally required.
    “All applications for permission to build or replace a structure shall be accompanied by a dimensional drawing of the building plan in duplicate showing the location of buildings and structures, lot area to be used, auto parking areas, and water supply and sewage disposal facilities. The County Health Officer’s certificate preliminarily approving proposed water and sewage facilities must accompany applications.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Manufactured homes used for temporary uses under the Henry County Zoning Ordinance.
      “Manufactured homes used for temporary uses shall have an approved water supply, Sewage disposal system, and utility connections, where appropriate, and at the Discretion of the Planning Commission’s designated administrator.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Manufactured homes used as dwelling units by qualifying farm occupants in the A-1 agricultural district.

    • The occupants must be farm owners, immediate family of the farm owner, or full-time permanent or temporary farm employees.
    • Prior approval of the sanitary waste disposal system by the Henry County Health Department is required.
    • District setback requirements must be met.
    • More than two manufactured homes requires Henry County Planning Commission approval.
    • Density may not exceed one manufactured home per 25 acres.

    maximum density: per 1 manufactured home per 25 acres

    “In an A-1 district, manufactured homes used as dwelling units by farm owners, members of the farm owner’s immediate family or full-time (permanent or temporary) employees of the farm owner, provided that prior approval of the sanitary waste disposal system is granted by the Henry County Health Department and provided that the “set back” requirements of the zoning district can be met.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision of land in Henry County, including incorporated cities and unincorporated county areas covered by the joint regulations.

    • A subdivision plat requires Planning Commission approval before subdivision or recording.
    • The regulations cover public services, drainage, water supply, sewerage, streets, flood hazards, and other improvements.
    • A final plat must be approved and recorded before lots may be sold.
    • The Planning Commission may vary requirements for unusual size, shape, surrounding development, hardship, or injustice while protecting public welfare.
    “It shall be unlawful for any person, being the owner, agent or person having control of any land in Henry County, to subdivide or lay out such land in lots before securing the approval of the Henry County Joint Planning Commission of a plat designating the areas to be subdivided;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Planned Unit Developments and subdivision-related development in Henry County.
      “It shall be unlawful for any person, being the owner, agent or person having control of any land in Henry County, to subdivide or lay out such land in lots before securing the approval of the Henry County Joint Planning Commission of a plat designating the areas to be subdivided;”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Fees for matters under the Henry County zoning ordinance.

    • The Planning Commission establishes the fee schedule by resolution.
    • The schedule is posted in the zoning enforcement officer’s office and may be altered or amended.
    • All application fees, charges, and expenses must be paid before action or appeal.
    • A penalty fee may be established for applications filed after work, use, or construction began without a required permit.
    • Building permits approved under the ordinance expire one year after issuance.

    building permit expiration: 1 year after issuance

    “The Planning Commission shall by resolution establish a reasonable schedule of fees, charges and expenses, and a collection procedure for all matters pertaining to this ordinance. The schedule of fees shall be posted in the office of the zoning enforcement officer and may be altered or amended by the Planning Commission as appropriate.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Fees for Henry County zoning applications and appeals.
      “The Planning Commission shall by resolution establish a reasonable schedule of fees, charges and expenses, and a collection procedure for all matters pertaining to this ordinance.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Henry County zoning/building-permit application process.

    • Applications must include duplicate dimensional drawings showing building locations, lot area, parking, water supply, and sewage disposal facilities.
    • The County Health Officer’s preliminary water-and-sewage certificate must accompany the application.
    • The approved copy is taken to the city/county building inspector, if applicable, for a building permit under locally adopted state building-code regulations.
    • Applications to the zoning enforcement officer are approved or disapproved within a reasonable time; under normal circumstances, three days is considered reasonable.
    • Applications are obtained from and submitted at the zoning enforcement office.

    normal zoning-application decision period: 3 days (The ordinance says this is reasonable under normal circumstances.)

    “Applications for such permits made to the zoning enforcement officer shall be approved or disapproved within a reasonable time. Under normal circumstances, three days shall be considered a reasonable time.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Henry County zoning and building-permit application process.
      “Under normal circumstances, three days shall be considered a reasonable time.”

Kentucky rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    An individual property owner performing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning work on property the individual owns and occupies.

    • The exemption applies to KRS 198B.650 to 198B.689, Kentucky's HVAC contractor provisions.
    • The owner must own and occupy the property.
    • For installation of an initial HVAC system, the owner must apply for a permit before beginning installation.
    • An exempt owner need not possess or show proof of an HVAC license to obtain the required HVAC permit.
    • Applying for the HVAC permit constitutes consent to inspection by authorized Commonwealth and relevant local-government inspectors.
    • No HVAC permit is required for installation on a manufactured home by a licensed manufactured-home retailer or manufacturer, and no permit or inspection is required for window-unit air conditioners, space heaters, or HVAC systems in buildings not designed for human occupancy.
    “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;”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — Homeowner plumbing, sewerage, and drainage work in Henry County.
      “Permits to construct, install or alter plumbing, sewerage or drainage may be issued to homeowners who desire to install plumbing in homes actually occupied by them or in a home to be constructed by them for their own personal residential use, if all the following requirements are met:”
    • Conditional — Homeowner plumbing, sewerage, or drainage work in the homeowner's occupied residence or a home being constructed for the homeowner's personal residential use.
      “Permits to construct, install or alter plumbing, sewerage or drainage may be issued to homeowners who desire to install plumbing in homes actually occupied by them or in a home to be constructed by them for their own personal residential use, if all the following requirements are met: Application is made for the permit prior to the beginning of the work. The homeowner files with his application an affidavit stating that he shall abide by the terms of this section. All work shall be performed in compliance with the state plumbing code. All the work shall be personally performed by the owner. Only one homeowner permit for construction of a new home shall be issued to an individual in a five-year period.”
  • 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Kentucky Building Code and Kentucky Residential Code applicable to construction in Henry 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.”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Single-family homes in Kentucky, including Henry County.

    • Local county or city inspection applies if a local single-family inspection program exists.
    • Where no local program exists, the builder must still meet the KRC, but building inspections do not occur except mechanical-system inspections and local county electrical inspection.
    “All single-family homes built in Kentucky will be reviewed and inspected by the local county or city building official if such an inspection program exists. For those counties or cities that do not have a single-family inspection program, the builder is still required to meet the KRC, but there will not be any building inspections except for the mechanical systems, which will be inspected by the Kentucky Division of Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) and by the local county electrical inspector.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Single-family dwellings in Henry County under the Kentucky Residential Code.
      “Permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy shall not be required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.”
    • Not required (with conditions) — Single-family dwellings constructed in Kentucky under the Kentucky Residential Code.
      “Permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy shall not be required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.”
  • Certificate of occupancyNot required (with conditions)

    Single-family dwellings constructed in Kentucky under the Kentucky Residential Code.

    • A local ordinance may independently require a certificate of occupancy.
    • This claim does not determine municipal or county certificate-of-occupancy ordinances.
    “Permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy shall not be required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Single-family dwellings in Henry County under the Kentucky Residential Code.
      “Permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy shall not be required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.”
    • Limited — Single-family dwellings in Kentucky, including Henry County.
      “Permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy shall not be required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.”
  • 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.”
  • Off-grid sanitationProhibited

    Use of seepage pits, cesspools, or dry wells as onsite sewage disposal systems statewide in Kentucky, subject to the Section 13 exception.

    • The prohibition is subject to the exception provided in Section 13 of 902 KAR 10:085.
    • Section 13 permits limited repair or alteration of existing seepage-pit systems when municipal or public sewage treatment is unavailable and repair or alteration is required because of malfunction, damage, or upgrade.
    • A limited single-family vacant-lot exception applies to certain lots purchased on or before May 1, 1992, if bona fide construction began by December 25, 1992.
    “Except as provided in Section 13 of this administrative regulation, use of seepage pits, cesspools, or dry wells;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • 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
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New or additional private farm or single-family dwelling driveway approaches on Kentucky Department of Highways rights-of-way.

    • The owner or occupant must make formal written application to the District Engineer of the Department of Highways.
    • The applicant must furnish required drainage pipe, tile, or other drainage structure at the applicant's own expense.
    • The Department may participate up to $300 for specified construction work.
    • No indemnity bond or other security is required unless estimated construction cost within the right-of-way exceeds $300.
    • The District Engineer may approve or disapprove the application.

    department participation maximum: <= 300 USD (specified drainage, grading, and surfacing work within right-of-way limits)

    “The owner or occupant of property, who desires to construct new or additional private farm or single family dwelling driveway approaches, shall make formal application in writing, to the District Engineer of the Department of Highways.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New, additional, relocated, or modified driveway entrance approaches serving commercial property or property used for a purpose other than farming or a single-family dwelling.
      “The owner or occupant of property, used for commercial or any purpose other than farming or single family dwelling, who desires to construct new or additional driveway entrance approaches, to relocate, or make other changes in existing driveway entrance approaches thereto, shall make application for a permit to the District Engineer of the Department of Highways upon standard forms furnished by the Transportation Cabinet.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development in an identified Kentucky floodplain, including development in mapped A and AE zones.

    • Both a state and local floodplain permit are required for development in an identified floodplain.
    • State and local permits are required for development in A and AE zones.
    • The Kentucky Division of Water issues general or individual floodplain permits.
    • General permits cover eligible activities that do not change the Base Flood Elevation and have minimal flood-risk potential.
    • Developments that do not meet general-permit eligibility or could change the Base Flood Elevation require an individual permit.
    • The source directs applicants to consult the local floodplain coordinator for local requirements.

    general permit nonsubstantial improvement threshold: < 50 percent of structure valuation (including labor)

    “Any development in an identified floodplain in Kentucky requires a state and a local floodplain permit.”
  • 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 floor area for dwellings in Henry County.
  • Building height — Building-height limits in Henry County.
  • Tiny homes — Tiny-home occupancy in Henry County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Henry 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 Henry County, Kentucky

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

Henry County scores 69/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and a durable current and mid-century hazard profile. Watch-outs: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop.

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

Henry County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by North-Central District Health Department. 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 Henry County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Henry County is prohibited: Residential occupancy of a camper or recreational vehicle in Henry County. The ordinance separately regulates recreational vehicle parks for short stays; this claim concerns residential use of an individual camper or recreational vehicle. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Henry County, Kentucky?

Land in Henry County runs about $4,807 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Henry County?

Henry County gets about 49.5" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 2.3% of years.

How remote is Henry County?

A representative private-land location has about 3,307 people within a 30-minute drive and 4,612,334 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 Henry compares in Kentucky

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