Louisville Metro requires a building permit for carports exceeding 200 sq ft under 2018 Kentucky Residential Code. LMCO Land Development Code sets side setback of 3-5 feet and counts carports toward lot coverage.
Carport construction in Jefferson County requires a building permit from Louisville Metro Codes and Regulations for any roofed structure exceeding 200 square feet under the 2018 Kentucky Residential Code §R105.2 (aligned with IRC). Pre-fabricated metal carport kits are not exempt. Setbacks follow the Louisville Metro Land Development Code: R-4 single-family requires 5-foot side and rear setbacks; R-5 and R-6 may reduce to 3 feet for accessory structures. Height limited to 15 feet in most residential zones. Lot coverage limits apply (R-4 typically 35% max; R-5 40%). Attached carports must meet house setback standards and count toward floor area calculations. Tornado wind load requirements (90 mph basic wind speed per ASCE 7) apply to structural design. HOA covenants in many Jefferson County subdivisions (Norton Commons, Fern Creek, Prospect) restrict or prohibit carports. Historic districts (Old Louisville, Cherokee Triangle, Butchertown) require Landmarks Commission review.
Unpermitted carport: stop-work order, retroactive permitting with double fees, potential removal if non-compliant. LMCO Chapter 32 civil fines $100-$500 per day. Setback violations: variance required from Board of Zoning Adjustment or demolition.
Jefferson County, KY
Jefferson County (Louisville Metro) regulates barking dogs under LMCO Chapter 91. Dogs that bark, howl, or whine persistently in a manner unreasonably distur...
Jefferson County, KY
As part of Louisville Metro Government since 2003, Jefferson County follows LMCO § 99.03. Exterior construction within 100 feet of residential property is pr...
Jefferson County, KY
Jefferson County and Louisville merged in 2003 to form Louisville Metro Government, so all unincorporated Jefferson County areas fall under LMCO Chapter 99 (...
Jefferson County, KY
Jefferson County (Louisville Metro) LDC requires residential driveways in front or street-side yards to be no wider than 20 feet and surfaced with a hard or ...
Jefferson County, KY
Jefferson County (Louisville Metro) LDC restricts RV and trailer parking in residential districts. RVs/boats over 25 feet or trailers over 16 feet are classi...
Jefferson County, KY
Jefferson County (Louisville Metro) LDC restricts large commercial vehicles in residential zones. Heavy Trucks (multi-axle vehicles, trailers over 16 feet) a...
See how Jefferson County's carport rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.