The Department of Codes & Regulations - CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD BROCHURE

State & Local law requires a permit be obtained prior to the installation of electrical wiring, equipment or devices, as well as required inspections be performed to insure compliance with the electrical Code.
The KY Building & Residential Codes sections 105 states “Any owner or authorized agent who intends to install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit”.

Examples of work requiring an electrical permit and inspection:

• Adding or extending a new circuit and/or wiring for appliances such as air conditioners or hot tubs.
• Installing and/or adding receptacles or light fixtures were one did not exist before.
• Installing and/or adding a new electrical panel.
• Restoring electrical service after it has been interrupted because of a hazardous condition.
• Wiring any new structure such as a house, garage or shed.

The code exempts minor repair work from permits. The following list of examples of work that would not require a permit. However, the installation still needs to be installed in accordance with NFPA 70, (National Electrical Code) as adopted by the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

• Replacing a receptacle where one already exists.
• Replacing a faulty circuit breaker with the same size and type.
• Replacing or changing a light fixture.
• Installing phones or coax cable (cable TV).

Who Can obtain A permit for Electrical Permit?
In accordance with State Law only a Kentucky licensed Electrical Contractor or a Home Owner can obtain electrical permits. However, a home owner can only obtain a permit if they meet the following requirements:

• Electrical work must be for primary residence only.
• Must provide a photo ID such as a drivers license reflecting the address of the permit location.
• Bring proof that you own the property i.e. deed, tax bill or bill of sale.
• Must perform the work themselves
• Cannot be rental or commercial property.
• Must complete and sign home owner electrical permit application affidavit.

If you decide to hire a contractor verify they are a KY licensed electrical contractor. All licensed contractors must carry their State issued ID with them. Also make sure they obtain the required permits. You can verify issued permits by calling our office at 502-574-3321 or use our website at http://www.louisvilleky.gov/ipl/development/ePermitSearch.htmor. If you are not sure your installation would require a permit please give us a call and ask to speak with our Electrical Inspections Division. We are here to help insure you have the safest installation possible for you and your family by enforcing the permitting laws and inspecting the installations. Anyone found performing electrical work within Louisville Metro without a required electrical permit or performing work determined to be imminent danger to life or property is subject to a penalty of $1000.00 for the first offense and $2000.00 for each subsequent offense.

Information Source:
Department of Codes & Regulations
444 S. 5th Street
Louisville, Kentucky 40202
(502)574-3321
www.louisvilleky.gov
ipl@louisvilleky.gov