Bolthole Index

Hopkins County, Kentucky

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Hopkins County, Kentucky

64Index Score / 100
#54 of 120 in Kentucky

Unincorporated Hopkins County, Kentucky requires a building permit before construction, alteration or repair other than ordinary repairs1. The Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission handles the county building-permit process; the Hopkins County Health Department requires site evaluation and septic installation permits before a building permit where sewer is unavailable23. Municipal zoning varies by city, and we could not confirm zoning for unincorporated Hopkins County4.

At a glance

Building permit
Required before construction, alteration or repair other than ordinary repairs1
Zoning
Separate ordinances cover Dawson Springs, Earlington, Hanson, Madisonville and Mortons Gap; unincorporated zoning is unconfirmed56
Septic permits
Health Department site evaluation and installation permit required before a building permit where sewer is unavailable37
Owner-builder exemption
No general exemption confirmed; a farm exception can apply outside municipalities when the owner lives on qualifying agricultural land8
Residential permit fee
$125 plus $0.08 per square foot for new residential construction9
Farm structures
An affidavit is required; official materials differ on whether every agricultural structure qualifies1011
Unsewered subdivision lots
At least one acre, 100 feet wide at the building line and 25 feet of road frontage12
Private wells
No owner permit application or fee; construction and abandonment require a Kentucky-certified driller13

Who to call

Building permits

Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission

Building permits, subdivision plats, addressing, and floodplain administration for Hopkins County and its five member cities

270-825-4457

hcjpc@hopkinscounty.net

67 North Main Street, Madisonville, KY 42431

Online permits →

Zoning

Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission (zoning page)

Publishes zoning ordinances for the commission's member cities

Septic permits

Hopkins County Health Department, Environmental Health

Septic system site evaluations, construction permits (including homeowner permits), and final inspections for Hopkins County

270.821.5242

412 North Kentucky Avenue, Madisonville, Kentucky 42431

Septic permits

Hopkins County Health Department (Sewage & Septic Permits page)

Same Environmental Health division; this entry cites the septic-process description on its own program page

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 12, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Hopkins 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 Hopkins County, Kentucky?

Unincorporated Hopkins County requires a building permit before construction, alteration or repair other than ordinary repairs1. Ordinary repairs are nonstructural and exclude specified plumbing, electrical, mechanical and similar work1. Starting required work without a building permit adds a fee equal to the original fees1. The published new-home review fee is $125 plus $0.08 per square foot; additions are $50 plus $0.08 per square foot, and an unfinished basement is $2514. Commercial plan review has a $300 minimum total, including the $50 administrative fee15. Kentucky adopted the 2018 Kentucky Building Code and Residential Code, subject to jurisdiction and exceptions16. The farm exception is limited to qualifying agricultural land outside a municipality where the resident owner builds a structure incidental to farm operations; file the affidavit and confirm eligibility with the Planning Commission817. For nonexempt building work, Hopkins County lists footer, rough-frame and final building inspections and requires 24-hour notice18. A certificate of occupancy is issued when applicable after the final inspection and approval of required trade inspections19.

Who is the Hopkins County building department, and how do you reach them?

The Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission handles building-permit submissions for unincorporated Hopkins County2. Call 270-825-4457, email hcjpc@hopkinscounty.net or visit 67 North Main Street, Madisonville, KY 4243117. Inside Madisonville, Dawson Springs and Hanson, municipal officials issue building permits under city requirements202122. Septic site evaluations and installation permits for Hopkins County addresses remain with the Hopkins County Health Department where sewer is unavailable3. County submissions require the worksheet, plans and a check payable to the commission, with the project name and location on the plans and check2. Depending on the project, bring the deed or recorded plat, site plan, environmentalist approval, notarized affidavit and workers’ compensation form; complete submissions generally take five to seven business days, and appointments are recommended23.

Does Hopkins County have zoning?

We could not confirm zoning for unincorporated Hopkins County; municipal zoning applies inside the respective city limits4. Madisonville, Dawson Springs, Earlington and Hanson set their own zoning24252627. Septic administration remains with the Hopkins County Health Department for Hopkins County sites3. The Joint Planning Commission also publishes the Mortons Gap zoning ordinance28. Madisonville detached single-family dwellings must exceed 18 feet in both length and width and have at least 600 square feet of living space excluding porches and garages29. Dawson Springs requires at least 600 square feet per single-family or two-family dwelling unit, excluding porches and garages30. County subdivision lots without sewer need at least one acre and 100 feet of width at the building line; lots severed from larger tracts also need at least 25 feet of road frontage continuing to that line12. County subdivision rules require a 30-foot front building line, including both street fronts on corner lots, unless stricter law controls31.

How do septic permits work in Hopkins County?

The Hopkins County Health Department administers onsite sewage site evaluations, septic permits and inspections under Kentucky's statewide program3. Where public sewer is unavailable, obtain a Certificate of Registration of Construction Activity from the Planning Commission before the Health Department's site evaluation; the site-evaluation and septic installation permits must precede the building permit7. The Environmental Health division evaluates soil suitability, and a certified installer submits a drawing with grade shots32. Kentucky requires a local health department permit before constructing, installing or altering a regulated onsite system; the state fee is $50 plus the local board of health fee33. A qualifying homeowner may obtain a homeowner permit, generally limited to one in a five-year period except necessary repair or alteration of the originally permitted system34. Every onsite system installed, constructed, altered or repaired must be inspected by a certified inspector35. Only 1.4% of Hopkins County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the site evaluation a purchase contingency36. Inside Nortonville, the city Superintendent also signs a private-sewage permit, and systems must meet county health standards37.

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

We could not confirm long-term RV, private-land camping or tiny-home occupancy rules for unincorporated Hopkins County; ask the Joint Planning Commission which jurisdiction and approvals cover the parcel17. Madisonville prohibits using a camper, travel trailer or motor vehicle as a permanent or temporary residence except under its limited temporary-use rules; construction-site occupancy requires a renewable temporary certificate and may last no more than six months38. A tiny home used as a dwelling should not be assumed exempt from Hopkins County's building-permit process1. Where sewer is unavailable, the building must connect to an approved private sewage-disposal system39.

How do you build a home in Hopkins County, step by step?

  1. Ask the Joint Planning Commission to confirm the parcel's jurisdiction, zoning, subdivision standards, floodplain status and application materials1740.
  2. Where public sewer is unavailable, obtain the Planning Commission registration certificate, then the Health Department site evaluation and septic installation permit7.
  3. Confirm driveway approval with Kentucky Department of Transportation District 2 for state roads, the County Road Department for county roads or City Hall for city streets41.
  4. In a special flood hazard area, obtain the state stream-construction permit and local floodplain-development permit before work42.
  5. Submit the worksheet, required plans and payment, then allow five to seven business days after the application is complete223.
  6. Give 24-hour notice for footer, rough-frame and final building inspections18.
  7. Complete septic and trade inspections before occupancy; Hopkins County issues a certificate of occupancy when applicable after compliance is certified4319.

What should you check before buying land in Hopkins County?

Check whether the tract is a recorded subdivision or proposed division because land may not be subdivided before Planning Commission approval4044. Confirm frontage and access because covered lots need at least 25 feet of road frontage continuing to the building line, while driveway approval comes from the state, county or city authority responsible for the road1241. Check mapped flood hazards because work in a special flood hazard area requires state and local floodplain permits42. Subdivision lots require an approved water supply45. Kentucky does not require the property owner to submit a well-permit application or fee, but well construction and abandonment must be performed by a Kentucky-certified driller13. The effective property-tax rate is about 0.8%, and the median annual bill is about $1,0574647.

Watch-outs

  • Zoning ordinances are published for Dawson Springs, Earlington, Hanson, Madisonville and Mortons Gap, but we could not confirm zoning for unincorporated Hopkins County; ask the Joint Planning Commission about your parcel6548.
  • Hopkins County's agricultural owner-builder exception is limited to qualifying farmland outside municipalities where the resident owner builds a farm-incidental structure; no general owner-builder exemption was confirmed8. File the agricultural affidavit before relying on a building-permit or inspection exemption49.
  • Starting covered construction without the required building permit adds a fee equal to the original fees1.
  • Only 1.4% of Hopkins County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field; secure the site evaluation before committing to a house location36.

Sources

  1. Hopkins County Building Permit Package, quoted and re-checked
  2. Plan Review Fee Worksheet / Residential Building Permit Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  3. Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems Program, quoted and re-checked
  4. Zoning Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  5. (2026 county census)
  6. Zoning Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  7. Building Permit Disclosure Statement — Septic Tank Permit, quoted and re-checked
  8. Agricultural Exemption Affidavit, quoted and re-checked
  9. Plan Review Fee Worksheet / Residential Building Permit Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  10. Plan Review Fee Worksheet / Residential Building Permit Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  11. Building Permit Disclosure Statement — Agricultural Exemption, quoted and re-checked
  12. Hopkins County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  13. Water Well Information for Home Owners (Kentucky statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  14. PLAN REVIEW FEE WORKSHEET — Residential Building Permit Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  15. PLAN REVIEW FEE WORKSHEET — Commercial Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  16. Division of Building Code Enforcement, quoted and re-checked
  17. Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission (hopkinscountyplanning.org)
  18. Hopkins County Building Permit Package, quoted and re-checked
  19. Hopkins County Building Permit Package, quoted and re-checked
  20. Madisonville: § 156.074 Building Permit (Hopkins County), quoted and re-checked
  21. Dawson Springs: § 150.04 Building Permits; Fees and Inspections (Hopkins County), quoted and re-checked
  22. Hanson: Title 17 - Zoning, 17.08.030 - Permits (Hopkins County), quoted and re-checked
  23. Hopkins County, Kentucky Building Permit Disclosure Statement, quoted and re-checked
  24. Madisonville: Chapter 156: Zoning Code (Hopkins County), quoted and re-checked
  25. Dawson Springs: § 154.01 Zoning Code Adopted by Reference (Hopkins County), quoted and re-checked
  26. Earlington: Chapter 155: Zoning Code (Hopkins County), quoted and re-checked
  27. Hanson: Title 17 - Zoning, 17.04.010 - Title, intent and purpose (Hopkins County), quoted and re-checked
  28. Zoning Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  29. Madisonville Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  30. Dawson Springs Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  31. Hopkins County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  32. Hopkins County Health Department (Sewage & Septic Permits page) (hopkinscohealthdept.com)
  33. 902 KAR 10:110. Issuance of on-site sewage disposal system permits, quoted and re-checked
  34. 902 KAR 10:110. Issuance of on-site sewage disposal system permits, quoted and re-checked
  35. Home - Hopkins Co. Health Dept, quoted and re-checked
  36. 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
  37. Nortonville: § 50.03 Private Sewage Disposal Systems (Hopkins County), quoted and re-checked
  38. Madisonville Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  39. 815 KAR 20:130. House sewers and storm water piping; methods of installation (Kentucky statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  40. Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  41. Hopkins County Building Permit Package, quoted and re-checked
  42. Hopkins County Building Permit Package, quoted and re-checked
  43. Environmental Compliance FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  44. Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  45. Hopkins County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  46. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  47. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  48. Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission (zoning page) (hopkinscountyplanning.org)
  49. Plan Review Fee Worksheet / Residential Building Permit Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked

Written October 12, 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

Unlike 4 of its 6 neighbors, Hopkins County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleHopkins CountyWebster CountyCaldwell CountyMcLean CountyMuhlenberg CountyCrittenden CountyUnion County
Building permitRequiredNot requiredLimitedRequiredLimitedRequiredLimited
County zoningNot publishedNoNoYesNoNoYes
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.Green River District Health Dept.Pennyrile District Health Dept.Green River District Health Dept.County Health Dept.Pennyrile District Health Dept.Green River District Health Dept.

County locator

Hopkins County in Kentucky

64
County map
Hopkins County highlighted among the Kentucky counties · colored by Index score

How Hopkins County scores

Seclusion51100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency69100% ev.
Admin Boringness4968% ev.
Durability62100% ev.
Property Autonomy33100% ev.
Carry Cost85100% ev.

Evidence strength: 95%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$147kTypical home
0.8%Property tax
$4,313Land / acre
49.8"Annual rain
4% of yrsSevere drought
12.5 / yr (+11.4)Mid-century 100°F days
15.3 daysMid-century dry spell
2.37" (+7.8%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.77×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,714Home insurance / yr
1.3% / yrInsurance growth
0.56%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
41,874People within 30 min
2,100,611People within 2 hr
49,777Radius comparison (15 mi)
82.9People / sq mi
0.6%Federal land
78.1%Land at 15% slope or less
1.4%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
4,682 acWorkable land screen
53.2%Wooded land
52.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
57.9°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Hopkins 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: Mortons Gap · Nebo · St. Charles · White Plains

Answers from the rulebook for Hopkins County

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

Hopkins County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, alteration, or repairs in Hopkins County under the Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission building-permit process.

    • Ordinary repairs are excluded.
    • Ordinary repairs are nonstructural and exclude additions to, alterations of, replacement of, or relocation of specified water, sewer, drainage, gas, soil, waste, vent, electrical, mechanical, or similar systems.
    • Work started without a permit is subject to an additional fee equal to the original fees.
    • Complete submittals are generally processed in five to seven business days.

    permit processing time: five to seven business days (once submittal is complete)

    “Before beginning any construction, alteration or repairs, other than ordinary repairs a permit shall be obtained.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, alteration, or repair work subject to the Hopkins County building-permit process.
      “Before beginning any construction, alteration or repairs, other than ordinary repairs a permit shall be obtained.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Farm dwellings and other buildings or structures located on farms outside a municipality when the property owners reside on the agricultural land and the structure is incidental to farm operation.

    • The land must be outside the boundary of a municipality.
    • The land must qualify as agricultural land under KRS 132.010 (9) and (10).
    • The structure must be constructed on agricultural land occupied by the property owners.
    • The structure must be incidental to operation of the farm.
    • The use must not be retail trade, a regular place of work for 10 or more people, or processing or storage of timber products.
    • The affidavit is sworn and notarized.
    “the structure must be located on the farm and must be inhabited by the farmer for agricultural purposes”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Buildings subject to the Hopkins County building-permit inspection process.

    • A 24-hour notice is required to schedule inspections.
    • Footer, rough frame, and final inspections are specified.
    • Electrical, plumbing, gas, and other required inspections must also be completed and approved.
    • Additional or unscheduled inspections may be required at the inspector's discretion.

    inspection notice: 24 hours

    “A 24-hour notice to schedule inspections is required.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Building work after issuance of a building permit.
      “After the issuance of a building permit, a Building Inspector will perform the following inspections and must be notified when the construction is ready for these inspections:”
    • Limited — Building inspections associated with Hopkins County residential permitting.
      “NOTE: All agricultural structures are exempt from the permit and inspection requirements per KY Building Code and KY Residential Code with filing of completed affidavit.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Occupancy after completion of permitted building work where a certificate of occupancy is applicable.

    • Final inspection is required before occupancy.
    • All work must be completed before final inspection.
    • Electrical, plumbing, gas, and other required inspections must be completed and approved.
    • The certificate is issued if applicable after the building is certified as complying with acceptable codes.
    “Once the final inspection has been performed and the building certified as in compliance with acceptable codes, a Certificate of Occupancy will be issued (if applicable).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Occupancy following permitted construction when a certificate is applicable.
      “Once the final inspection has been performed and the building certified as in compliance with acceptable codes, a Certificate of Occupancy will be issued (if applicable).”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning across Hopkins County: the Joint Planning Commission page identifies zoning ordinances for five member municipalities, while the page does not establish a single countywide zoning ordinance.

    • The listed municipal ordinances apply within their respective municipalities: Dawson Springs, Earlington, Hanson, Madisonville, and Mortons Gap.
    • This aggregate claim does not assert that Hopkins County administers each municipal ordinance.
    • Unincorporated-area zoning status remains unresolved from the opened official pages.
    “Dawson Springs Zoning Ordinance Earlington Zoning Ordinance Hanson Zoning Ordinance Madisonville Zoning Ordinance Mortons Gap Zoning Ordinance”
  • Zoning districtsPartial

    Published local zoning materials maintained by the Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission.

    • The official page lists zoning ordinances for Dawson Springs, Earlington, Hanson, Madisonville, and Mortons Gap.
    • The page does not establish a current countywide or unincorporated zoning ordinance.
    “Dawson Springs Zoning Ordinance Earlington Zoning Ordinance Hanson Zoning Ordinance Madisonville Zoning Ordinance Mortons Gap Zoning Ordinance”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — Published zoning ordinances for the five incorporated municipalities identified on the Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission zoning page: Dawson Springs, Earlington, Hanson, Madisonville, and Mortons Gap.
      “Dawson Springs Zoning Ordinance Earlington Zoning Ordinance Hanson Zoning Ordinance Madisonville Zoning Ordinance Mortons Gap Zoning Ordinance”
    • Partial — Published zoning regulations administered through the Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission for participating municipal jurisdictions, specifically Dawson Springs, Earlington, Hanson, Madisonville, and Mortons Gap.
      “Dawson Springs Zoning Ordinance Earlington Zoning Ordinance Hanson Zoning Ordinance Madisonville Zoning Ordinance Mortons Gap Zoning Ordinance”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Lots in Hopkins County subdivisions and lots severed from larger tracts.

    • In sewered areas, lot area must conform to the applicable requirements of the municipality providing sanitary sewer.
    • In areas without sanitary sewer, the minimum area is one acre and the building-line width is 100 feet.
    • All lots or lots severed from larger tracts must have at least 25 feet of road frontage continuing to the building line.

    minimum lot area: >= 1 acre (areas not provided with sanitary sewer) · width at building line: >= 100 feet (areas not provided with sanitary sewer) · road frontage: >= 25 feet (subdivision lots or lots severed from larger tracts)

    “b) in areas not provided with sanitary sewer: Width at Building Line: one hundred (100) feet Area: one acre (43,560 square feet) (3-18-1993)”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Front building lines in Hopkins County subdivisions.

    • The cited requirement applies to subdivision lots.
    • Corner lots must permit front building lines on both adjoining streets.
    • More restrictive applicable law controls.

    front building line: 30 feet (subdivision lots)

    “Building line of thirty (30) feet in width shall be dedicated on the front of each lot. (3-18-1993)”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Onsite sewage systems in Hopkins County.

    • The local health department administers onsite sewage evaluations and inspections.
    • Kentucky statewide statutes and regulations govern the program.
    “The Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems Program is administered through local health departments”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • County (with conditions) — Onsite sewage disposal administration for Hopkins County.
      “Any areas where sewer is not available will require a site evaluation permit and septic tank installation permit from the Hopkins County Health Department before the building permit can be issued.”
    • Local (with conditions) — On-site sewage disposal administration for sites in Hopkins County.
      “The Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems Program is administered through local health departments and begins with the use of onsite evaluations to determine if the site and soil conditions are suitable for onsite wastewater systems.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Areas of Hopkins County where sewer is not available.

    • A site evaluation permit and septic tank installation permit are required before the building permit can be issued.
    • A Certificate of Registration of Construction Activity must be obtained from the Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission before the Health Department performs the site evaluation.
    • Fees and requirements are administered by the Hopkins County Health Department.
    “Any areas where sewer is not available will require a site evaluation permit and septic tank installation permit from the Hopkins County Health Department before the building permit can be issued.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    On-site sewage systems and septic services for residential and commercial properties in Hopkins County, administered by the Hopkins County Health Department under Kentucky onsite sewage requirements.

    • The Hopkins County Health Department states that it manages environmental health services across the county and provides sewage and septic permits, inspections, and septic system evaluations.
    • State requirements govern construction, installation, and alteration of regulated onsite sewage systems and require a permit from the local health department before work begins.
    • Site and soil evaluations and inspections are performed by local health department septic inspectors.
    • The reviewed county health page does not state a Hopkins County-specific fee or inspection interval.
    “Every on-site sewage disposal system installed, constructed, altered, or repaired shall be inspected by a certified inspector.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Onsite sewage systems in Hopkins County.
      “Every on-site sewage disposal system installed, constructed, altered, or repaired shall be inspected by a certified inspector.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Lots within Hopkins County subdivisions.

    • Each lot must have an approved water supply; a private water supply may be used pending public-water availability.
    • When public sanitary sewer is within reasonable access, sewer facilities must be provided to each lot.
    • When public sewer is not accessible, proper sewage-disposal provisions require approval and supervision by the appropriate county official.
    “Each lot within a subdivision shall be provided with a connection to an approved water system. [...] When public sanitary sewers are within reasonable access of the subdivision, the subdivider shall provide sanitary sewer facilities to each lot therein.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Agricultural structures in Hopkins County subject to residential building permit and inspection procedures.

    • A completed affidavit must be filed.
    • The source attributes the exemption to the Kentucky Building Code and Kentucky Residential Code.
    “NOTE: All agricultural structures are exempt from the permit and inspection requirements per KY Building Code and KY Residential Code with filing of completed affidavit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Farm dwellings and other farm-incidental buildings outside a municipality boundary.
      “Farm dwellings and other buildings and structures located on farms which are incident to operation of the farm and located outside the boundary of the municipality”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision plat review and approval under Hopkins County subdivision regulations.

    • Plans are reviewed for compliance with adopted Hopkins County subdivision regulations.
    • The Joint Planning Commission approves the plat after review; the source does not provide the full current regulation text.
    “THIS PLAT (THESE PLANS) HAS (HAVE) BEEN REVIEWED FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE ADOPTED HOPKINS COUNTY SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS AND APPROVED BY THE HOPKINS COUNTY JOINT PLANNING COMMISSION ON ___________, 20____.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision and plat review under Hopkins County Subdivision Regulations.
      “It shall be unlawful for any person being the owner, agent or person having control of any land in Hopkins County to subdivide or lay out such land in lots before securing the approval of the Planning Commission”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Driveway locations accessing state, county, or city roadways.

    • State-road access is subject to Kentucky Department of Transportation District 2 permits and regulations.
    • County-road access is subject to County Road Department permits and regulations.
    • City-street access is subject to the local city’s permits and regulations.
    • A driveway-location exhibit is required for a new 911 address.
    “Driveway locations that access onto state, county and city roadways are subject to all permits and regulations of that jurisdiction.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Construction in a special flood hazard area in Hopkins County.

    • A state stream construction permit and local floodplain development permit are required before any work can begin when the property is in a special flood hazard area.
    • The local permit is from the Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission.
    “If the property is located in a special flood hazard area, then a state stream construction permit and a local floodplain development permit from the office of the Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission will have to be obtained before ANY work can begin.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction in a special flood hazard area.
      “If the property is located in a special flood hazard area, then a state stream construction permit and a local floodplain development permit from the office of the Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission will have to be obtained before ANY work can begin.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Commercial building permit plan-review fees administered by the Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission for commercial construction, additions, alterations, repairs, and specialized systems in Hopkins County.

    • Commercial new-construction and addition fees are calculated using the applicable cost-per-square-foot fee schedule and the structure's outside dimensions.
    • Alterations or repairs are charged at 0.0025 times alteration cost or the new-construction calculation, whichever is less.
    • A $50.00 administrative fee applies to each permit application.
    • The minimum plan-review fee is $250.00 plus the $50.00 administrative fee, for a minimum total of $300.00.
    • Projects involving plumbing only do not require plan-review fees.
    • Specialized plan-review fees apply when the specialized system plans accompany payment.
    • Fees must be paid before construction approval; plans and fees are rounded to the nearest dollar and paid by check payable to the Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission.
    • The document is marked Hopkins County Revised 1/20; this revision notation is not treated as an effective date.

    administrative fee: per 50 USD per permit application · minimum plan review fee: >= 250 USD (plus $50 administrative fee, minimum total $300) · minimum total commercial review fee: >= 300 USD · alteration or repair rate: 0.0025 of alteration cost (or same as new construction, whichever is less)

    “ALTERATIONS OR REPAIRS: .0025 X cost of alterations $________or same as NEW CONSTRUCTION, whichever is less = FEE $____________ ADMINISTRATIVE: = FEE $ 50.00 . TOTAL FEE THIS SECTION $______________ The minimum fee for review of plans under this section shall be two hundred fifty dollars, plus fifty dollars administrative fee for a minimum total of ($300).”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Residential building permit review fees administered by the Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission for residential construction, additions, accessory buildings, and related re-inspections in Hopkins County, including the listed incorporated cities and unincorporated areas.
      “New Residential Construction: Living area, garage, porch, finished basement, etc.: $125.00 + $0.08 per square foot Unfinished basement: $25.00 Additions: $50.00 + $0.08 per square foot”
    • Published (with conditions) — Residential building permit and related review fees administered through the Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission.
      “NEW RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION: $125.00 + ($0.08 per square foot X total area ______________________) = FEE $____________”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Hopkins County building-permit application and processing process.

    • Required materials include deed or recorded plat, plans where applicable, plot or site plan where applicable, environmentalist approval where applicable, completed application, notarized affidavit, and worker's compensation form.
    • Complete submittals generally require five to seven business days for processing.
    • Appointments are recommended.

    processing time: five to seven business days (once submittal is complete)

    “Please allow five to seven business days for permit processing, once submittal is complete.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Residential building permit submission through the Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission Building Permit Department.
      “When submitting plans, please include one copy of the worksheet, the required number of plans and your check, made payable to the Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission. The name and location of the project must be indicated on the check and plans to ensure proper credit.”

Kentucky rules that apply here

  • 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 — Kentucky building construction, including Hopkins County, subject to the applicable code jurisdiction and exceptions.
      “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.”
  • 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
  • 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.”

Inside cities and towns in Hopkins County

Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land use and development within the City of Dawson Springs, Hopkins County, Kentucky.

    • Development is governed by the City of Dawson Springs Zoning Ordinance and its zoning districts, permitted uses, conditional uses, and administrative requirements.
    • The ordinance states that zoning authority is granted by Kentucky Revised Statutes Sections 100.201 through 100.271.
    “Zoning authority is granted by the Kentucky Revised Statutes, Section 100.201 through Section 100.271. This ordinance shall be known and may be cited and referred to as the "Dawson Springs, Kentucky Zoning Ordinance."”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Zoning regulations within the City of Dawson Springs, Hopkins County, Kentucky.

    • The official Hopkins County Joint Planning Commission page publishes a link labeled Dawson Springs Zoning Ordinance; district-specific requirements must be determined from that ordinance.
    “Dawson Springs Zoning Ordinance Earlington Zoning Ordinance Hanson Zoning Ordinance Madisonville Zoning Ordinance Mortons Gap Zoning Ordinance”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published — Zoning regulations within the City of Earlington, Hopkins County, Kentucky.
      “Dawson Springs Zoning Ordinance Earlington Zoning Ordinance Hanson Zoning Ordinance Madisonville Zoning Ordinance Mortons Gap Zoning Ordinance”
    • Published — Zoning regulations within the City of Hanson, Hopkins County, Kentucky.
      “Dawson Springs Zoning Ordinance Earlington Zoning Ordinance Hanson Zoning Ordinance Madisonville Zoning Ordinance Mortons Gap Zoning Ordinance”
    • Published — Zoning regulations within the City of Madisonville, Hopkins County, Kentucky.
      “Dawson Springs Zoning Ordinance Earlington Zoning Ordinance Hanson Zoning Ordinance Madisonville Zoning Ordinance Mortons Gap Zoning Ordinance”
    • Published — Zoning regulations within the City of Mortons Gap, Hopkins County, Kentucky.
      “Dawson Springs Zoning Ordinance Earlington Zoning Ordinance Hanson Zoning Ordinance Madisonville Zoning Ordinance Mortons Gap Zoning Ordinance”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Dwellings regulated by the City of Dawson Springs Zoning Ordinance.

    • Minimum living space excludes porches and garages.
    • The ordinance separately states 550 square feet per unit for multifamily dwellings.

    minimum living space for dwelling, single-family, and two-family units: >= 600 square feet per unit (porches and garage excluded) · minimum living space for multifamily units: >= 550 square feet per unit (porches and garage excluded)

    “The minimum living space square footage excluding porches and garage shall be 600 sf per unit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Single-family detached dwellings in the City of Madisonville.
      “Dwelling, Single Family Detached – A residential building containing not more than one dwelling unit located on a lot containing no other dwelling units; the minimum length and width dimension being greater than 18 feet and having a minimum living space of 600 square feet excluding porches and garage.”
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    Camper, travel trailer, or motor vehicle occupancy in the City of Madisonville.

    • Permanent or temporary residence in a camper, travel trailer, or motor vehicle is prohibited except as allowed in Chapter 10.2.
    • At a construction or excavation site, a renewable temporary certificate of occupancy is required.
    • Construction or excavation-site temporary occupancy may not exceed six months.
    • The manufactured/mobile home, travel trailer, or camper must be removed no later than 30 days after substantial completion or after efforts for timely completion cease, whichever occurs first.
    • The Board of Adjustment may grant a temporary conditional use permit while an otherwise allowed residential structure destroyed in a calamity is being rebuilt.

    temporary certificate of occupancy period: <= 6 months (renewable temporary certificate required)

    “Use of a camper, travel trailer or motor vehicle as a permanent or temporary residence except as allowed in Chapter 10.2”

Still unanswered

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

  • County-wide zoning — Countywide zoning regulation in Hopkins County, including unincorporated areas.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage in Hopkins County.
  • Building height — Building height in Hopkins County.
  • Tiny homes — Occupancy of a tiny home as a dwelling on private property in Hopkins County.
  • Manufactured homes — Manufactured-home occupancy on private land in unincorporated Hopkins County.
1 more unanswered
  • Short-term rentals

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 Hopkins County, Kentucky

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

Hopkins County scores 64/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and strong self-sufficiency basics: 49.8″/yr rainfall plus 53.2% wooded land. Watch-outs: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop.

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

Hopkins County generally requires a residential building permit. Onsite septic is permitted by Hopkins County 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.

How much does land cost in Hopkins County, Kentucky?

Land in Hopkins County runs about $4,313 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Hopkins County?

Hopkins County gets about 49.8" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 4% of years.

How remote is Hopkins County?

A representative private-land location has about 41,874 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,100,611 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 Hopkins compares in Kentucky

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