Lexington, KY Accessory Structures: ADU Permits (2026)

Lexington's ADU framework lives in Zoning Ordinance Section 3-12 (General Regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units). Key provisions: one ADU per single-family dwelling per lot; maximum ADU size 800 sq ft except basement conversions, which have no size limit so long as they stay within the existing footprint; height and setbacks follow the accessory-structure rules in Zoning Ordinance Section 15-6 (typical 5 ft rear, 3-5 ft side depending on size and zone); occupancy capped at two persons plus related children; one additional parking space may be required in some zones. The permit pathway: (1) pre-application meeting with the Division of Planning at 101 E. Vine Street, 7th Floor; (2) Residential ADU application submitted through Lexington's online permit portal to the Division of Building Inspection; (3) plan review against the 2018 Kentucky Residential Code as adopted at 815 KAR 7:120 and the zoning standards; (4) inspections during construction. Standard plan review averages 3-5 weeks. ADUs in the Historic Preservation Overlay or H-1 require Certificate of Appropriateness from the Courthouse Area Design Review Board before permitting. Kentucky has no statewide ADU statute preempting local rules, so 800 sq ft and owner-occupancy stay in effect.