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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. Checked on the primary source; the state record was last reviewed 2026-11-12.

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Building code in Kentucky

Checked 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; confirm the local office for the address.

What changes next

In force

DHBC memo: 2023 NEC dwelling provisions 210.52(C), 230.67 and 314.27(C) enforceable since Jul 15, 2026 under the Kentucky Residential Code; 210.8(A) and 210.8(D)(8)-(11) remain delayed. 2026 NEC task force announced, no adoption or effective date posted. 815 KAR 7:120 expires 12/3/2031

What a building has to do

1 recurring duties

These apply when the building has the equipment or fits the type named. The frequency is the standard one; your local official can set a stricter one, so confirm it for the address.

Monthly
Accessible pool entry: a pool lift or sloped entry in place and working whenever the pool is open (pools with 300 or more linear feet of wall need two accessible entries; a spa needs one: lift, transfer wall or transfer system); the rule sets no inspection interval; a monthly check that it works and is charged is common practice2010 ADA Standards §242 and §1009; 28 CFR 36.211 · U.S. Department of Justice (enforced through complaints and lawsuits) · Checked against the source 2026-09-28.

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?

Nothing is scheduled. The rule above stays in force until the state adopts a newer edition or amends the program; AHJ Radar re-checks the source weekly.

Other areas in Kentucky

Everything in force in Kentucky
Fire codeKentucky Standards of Safety, 815 KAR 10:060: incorporates NFPA 1 (2018), NFPA 101 (2018) …Elevators815 KAR 4:010 (eff. Mar 1, 2022): annual inspection to the standards incorporated in 815 K…BoilersKRS Chapter 236 plus 815 KAR 15:025/15:026: new equipment follows the ASME Boiler and Pres…Pools and spas902 KAR 10:120, Kentucky public swimming and bathing facilities, most recently amended eff…Hotels and lodging902 KAR 7:010 (hotel and motel code) under KRS 219.021; annual Cabinet for Health and Fami…Workplace safetyKentucky OSH State Plan (Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet, Department of Workplace Sta…

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