Kentucky · Building code

The building code in force in Kentucky now.

2018 Kentucky Building Code, Fourth Edition (Feb 2024), adopted by 815 KAR 7:120, effective Dec 3, 2024. Enforced by DHBC Division of Building Code Enforcement (state plan review/inspection where no local program exists); most KY cities/counties run their own state-certified local building department enforcing the same code. Verified on the primary source, re-checked weekly.

Enter a Kentucky ZIP code for the building view

Building code in Kentucky

Verified on the source
In force

2018 Kentucky Building Code, Fourth Edition (Feb 2024), adopted by 815 KAR 7:120, effective Dec 3, 2024

The base text is still the 2015 IBC; Kentucky's 2018-numbered amendment package supersedes conflicting IBC sections. Existing buildings follow the 2015 IEBC; commercial energy code is the 2012 IECC per DHBC's code list.

Source: primary document

Who enforces it

DHBC Division of Building Code Enforcement (state plan review/inspection where no local program exists); most KY cities/counties run their own state-certified local building department enforcing the same code

Statewide layer. County and city amendments sit on top; the building view resolves them from your ZIP.

What changes next

Rulemaking pending

DHBC task force reviewed the 2026 NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code, to replace the 2023 NEC now in force) at public meetings Apr-May 2026; no adoption decision or effective date published yet

Questions about the building code in Kentucky

Which building code applies in Kentucky today?

2018 Kentucky Building Code, Fourth Edition (Feb 2024), adopted by 815 KAR 7:120, effective Dec 3, 2024. The base text is still the 2015 IBC; Kentucky's 2018-numbered amendment package supersedes conflicting IBC sections. Existing buildings follow the 2015 IEBC; commercial energy code is the 2012 IECC per DHBC's code list.

Who enforces the building code in Kentucky?

DHBC Division of Building Code Enforcement (state plan review/inspection where no local program exists); most KY cities/counties run their own state-certified local building department enforcing the same code.

What changes next for the building code in Kentucky?

Rulemaking pending. DHBC task force reviewed the 2026 NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code, to replace the 2023 NEC now in force) at public meetings Apr-May 2026; no adoption decision or effective date published yet

Other areas in Kentucky

Everything in force in Kentucky

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