Ready to live big by going tiny in Kentucky? Great! Here’s how to make sure everything is legal. The state doesn’t have many laws about tiny house building. Counties and cities change their guidelines constantly. To be in compliance, you’ll need to read up on your local municipality’s rules.

Kentucky is becoming a very popular place for tiny house enthusiasts. Limited laws mean more opportunities to get creative. But you also need to make a plan for where to put your house once it’s built. Don’t waste your time building an illegal dwelling!

If you want to stay in compliance with the law, read on.

Jerry

, the

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comparison app, has created a guide to tiny house laws in Kentucky. Discover what’s legal, which cities are most friendly to tiny houses, where to learn about building codes, and how to build your home in compliance with state law. Let’s hit the road!

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Are tiny houses legal in Kentucky?

There is no statewide tiny house law in Kentucky at the moment. Some cities in Kentucky, however, have codes and guidelines for the construction of tiny houses and other off-grid residences.

It’s important to know your local area’s regulations, as they can vary widely from city to city. For instance, in Pulaski County, there are no zoning laws. In Louisville, tiny houses must conform to specific zoning codes.

Kentucky cities that allow tiny houses

Unless an area has a specific ordinance that states otherwise, most cities should allow for tiny houses within Kentucky guidelines. There’s already a small community called

Bluegrass Tiny Ridge

in central Kentucky.

Pulaski County

Louisville Metro (per specific guidelines)

Be aware that zoning laws and building codes can change rapidly.

Some Kentucky cities are currently considering a change. Fayette County and Gaston County could be next to pass an ordinance allowing certain tiny homes. As of early 2022, Lexington is in the middle of a city-wide conversation about the situation.

Overall, you should be able to build a tiny house anywhere in Kentucky so long as you conform to the appropriate building codes. Will more cities loosen the restrictions on tiny houses in the future? Only time will tell.

MORE: Kentucky electric vehicle incentives

What kinds of tiny houses are permitted in Kentucky?

Kentucky permits tiny houses that are used as single dwelling units and that are set on a permanent foundation.

Your tiny house must also adhere to specific guidelines for floor space, ceiling height, emergency exits, and more.

In the Louisville Metro area, these types of tiny houses are permitted:

Permanent or site built

Prefabricated or modular (placed on foundations)

Portable (THOW, but must be moved to an area for permanent placement)

No matter what type of tiny house you choose, keep in mind that you may need documentation and reviews of your tiny house before you can move in. The code is there to keep you safe!

If you’re not sure which category your tiny house fits into, start by reading the

2018 Kentucky Building Code Second Edition

What does a tiny house need to be up to the Kentucky building code?

Your tiny house must conform to the Kentucky Building Code. Other than that, it needs to adhere to your local municipality’s guidelines. For instance, in Louisville your tiny house’s ceiling in habitable spaces (except lofts) must be not less than 6 feet 8 inches. A ladder to the loft should have a 12-inch minimum rung width with 10 to 14 inches between each rung—and each rung must be able to support 200 pounds.

In many Kentucky counties, there are no specific building guidelines for tiny houses. If this all sounds a bit vague, well, you’re right! Kentucky doesn’t have a ton of guidelines when it comes to building tiny houses.

Before you begin, you should read the state code and find out if your city or county has any guidelines. Then, you may need to submit for approval of a building site, including fees and documentation.

Once the home is constructed, you will need an inspector to finalize approval before you can live in your dwelling legally.

What about tiny houses on wheels?

Tiny houses are growing in popularity, especially in areas like Louisville. However, THOW (tiny houses on wheels) are not as accepted in Kentucky. Tiny homes usually need to be set on a permanent foundation.

If your home is built on a trailer or is considered a mobile home, you will need to register and title it with your county clerk.

Key Takeaway Permanent foundations are more accepted than tiny houses on wheels (THOWs) in Kentucky, but you may still be able to find a way forward if you’re set on a THOW.

MORE:

Home insurance terms you need to know

Where can I park my tiny house in Kentucky?

This is a huge question for tiny home owners: where can I put my tiny house?

In Kentucky, you’ll want to consult county and municipal zoning laws. They vary wildly from city to city. However, be aware that most areas require permanent foundations for tiny houses.

A good strategy might be to park on a friend’s land with a spare poured foundation. You could also rent a spot at a tiny house park or mobile home community.

How to build a tiny house in Kentucky

You’re ready to build a tiny house in Kentucky! To ensure you’re in compliance with the law—and to make sure you get a home you love—here’s what you need to do:

Decide which type of house you want. Will you do a schoolie conversion and drive cross-country? Will you build a small permanent dwelling to put in your parents’ yard?

Learn more about your zoning laws and building codes. Go to the library or contact your county clerk for more information about legal requirements on new builds.

Decide whether you’ll buy or build. DIY has its own rewards but you could also buy a tiny house from

Ky Tiny Homes

Utopian Villas

Figure out where you’ll put the house. Find a friend with a backyard or move to a city with friendlier zoning laws.

Find home insurance for your tiny home. Yes, you need home insurance! It’s not required by law but it’s smart to protect your sweat equity with a policy.

MORE:

How to choose the right kind of home insurance for you

How to save money on car and homeowners insurance

Money is a big concern for tiny house owners. Who doesn’t want to save money by going tiny? If you’re a budget-minded dreamer, you should try

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FAQs

Do you need a permit for a tiny house in Kentucky?

It depends on the type of tiny house and the municipality. Most houses with permanent foundations require building permits. Nearly all homes require inspections and documentation by the county before you can live there legally. Check with your county clerk for more information before you pick up the hammer.

What’s the minimum square footage for a house in Kentucky?

There is no specific guideline for the minimum required square footage of a tiny house in Kentucky. Many states have adopted the guidelines of the IRC (International Residential Code) guidelines, which require a minimum of 120 square feet of living space.

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