Deck Addition Permit Requirements — Louisville, KY
Yes. Two separate building permits are required: one for roof replacement (full tear-off) and one for new deck construction at 30 inches or more above grade in Louisville-Jefferson County Metro.
Jurisdiction data confirmed as of July 10, 2026
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What affects your permit requirement
Typical requirements
- Fee basis
- Residential Roofing Permit (full tear-off / structural alteration): $50.00 base fee + $2.50 per $1,000 of estimated project cost, minimum $75.00
- Residential Deck Permit (new construction, 1 & 2 family dwelling): $0.105 per square foot of deck area, minimum $75.00
Roofing permit requires estimated project cost to be submitted at application; deck permit is calculated on final deck square footage.[fee schedule]- Department
- Louisville-Jefferson County Metro Government — Office of Construction Review(502) 574-3321https://louisvilleky.gov/government/construction-review/online-permitting-portal
These figures reflect typical jurisdiction data. Fees and timelines change. Run a free search on your exact address for jurisdiction-confirmed requirements before you bid or apply.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to replace my roof in Louisville?
Yes. A full tear-off and replacement of a roof is a structural alteration requiring a building permit under the Kentucky Residential Code. Roofing is explicitly listed as a modification item that must be permitted. Contact the Office of Construction Review at (502) 574-3321 to verify whether your specific roofing scope qualifies.
Can I build a deck without a permit in Louisville, Kentucky?
Only if your deck meets all exemption criteria: not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, no more than 200 sq ft, not attached to a dwelling, and does not serve a required exit door. Any deck at 30 inches or higher requires a full building permit. Submit detailed plans to the Office of Construction Review to confirm your deck's status.
How much does a deck permit cost in Louisville?
Deck permits are calculated at $0.105 per square foot of deck area, with a $75 minimum fee. A 200 sq ft deck costs $75 (minimum applies); an 800 sq ft deck costs $84. Actual cost depends on your final deck square footage.
How much does a roof replacement permit cost in Louisville?
Roof permits cost $50 base fee plus $2.50 per $1,000 of estimated project cost, with a $75 minimum. A $15,000 roof costs $87.50; a $25,000 roof costs $112.50. You must provide your estimated project cost at the time of application.
Where do I apply for building permits in Louisville?
Apply online through the Louisville Metro Business Portal (Accela Citizen Access) at https://louisvilleky.gov/government/construction-review/online-permitting-portal. You can upload plans, track review status, and pay fees online. The Deck Construction Guide is available to help with design standards and submittal requirements.