Bolthole Index

Bullitt County, Kentucky

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Bullitt County, Kentucky

47Index Score / 100
#111 of 120 in Kentucky

Unincorporated Bullitt County, Kentucky requires building permits for new construction and structural remodeling through Buildings & Safety1. Planning and Zoning administers zoning in unincorporated Bullitt County, while city building and zoning rules can differ1. The Bullitt County Health Department handles septic site evaluations, permits, and inspections under Kentucky regulations countywide2.

Do you need a building permit in Bullitt County, Kentucky?

Unincorporated Bullitt County requires building, electrical, and heating-cooling permits for new construction and remodeling with structural changes.

Unincorporated Bullitt County requires building, electrical, and heating-cooling permits for new construction and remodeling with structural changes1. Kentucky residential-code standards apply to covered dwellings and townhouses, with Kentucky amendments controlling conflicting provisions7. Bullitt County reviews plans and makes field inspections1. Inside Shepherdsville and Hillview, city building-permit rules apply8,9. Septic remains with the Bullitt County Health Department in both cities2,10. Kentucky exempts single-family dwellings from certificates of occupancy unless a local ordinance requires one; ask Buildings & Safety what local final approval applies1,7.

Who issues building permits in Bullitt County, and how do you reach them?

Bullitt County Buildings & Safety, at 149 N. Walnut Street, 3rd Floor in Shepherdsville, issues building, electrical, and heating-cooling permits for new construction and structural remodeling.

Bullitt County Buildings & Safety, at 149 N. Walnut Street, 3rd Floor in Shepherdsville, issues building, electrical, and heating-cooling permits for new construction and structural remodeling1. Reach the division at 502-921-2970, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m1.. Buildings & Safety handles permits and inspection requests, while Planning and Zoning processes rezoning, subdivision review, variance, and conditional-use applications1. Planning and Zoning also reviews site plans and subdivision plats and signs off on zoning compliance1. We could not confirm a complete Bullitt County building-permit workflow or fee schedule; ask Buildings & Safety for current forms, plan requirements, fees, and the inspection sequence before filing1.

Does Bullitt County have zoning?

Bullitt County Planning and Zoning administers zoning in unincorporated Bullitt County.

Bullitt County Planning and Zoning administers zoning in unincorporated Bullitt County1. Inside Mount Washington and Shepherdsville, the cities have their own zoning regulations; septic site evaluations and permits remain with the Bullitt County Health Department countywide2,11,12. County records identify Agricultural and R-1 Residential classifications for unincorporated parcels, but we could not confirm the complete current district schedule13. Planning and Zoning handles zoning compliance, site plans, subdivision plats, rezoning, variances, and conditional uses1. Kentucky generally requires planning-commission approval before recording a subdivision plat; a qualifying agricultural division involving no new street falls outside the subdivision definition3,14. Ask Planning and Zoning for the parcel's minimum home size, lot size, setbacks, lot coverage, and height limits; we could not confirm those measurements1.

How do septic permits work in Bullitt County?

The Bullitt County Health Department performs septic site evaluations, issues permits, conducts inspections, and investigates complaints under Kentucky regulations.

The Bullitt County Health Department performs septic site evaluations, issues permits, conducts inspections, and investigates complaints under Kentucky regulations2. Reach Environmental Services at 502-955-7867 or envbchd@bullitthealth.org, at 181 Lees Valley Road in Shepherdsville15. New installations and repairs require a septic permit after site evaluation2. Published fees are $250 for a standard site evaluation, $350 for a farm evaluation, $275 for a septic permit, and $75 for an established-system inspection2. A homeowner may apply to install the system personally after receiving the site requirements; otherwise, a Certified Installer must apply2. The installer must call for inspection after installation, and Kentucky requires inspection before backfilling2,16. For an established-system inspection, the inspector checks the tank, lateral field, and leakage; a leaking system will not be approved2. Only about 9.1% of Bullitt County soils are rated free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so evaluate the site before fixing the house location or septic budget17.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Bullitt County?

We could not confirm a Bullitt County rule that allows long-term RV living, temporary camping, or tiny-home occupancy on private land; ask Planning and Zoning about the proposed occupancy.

We could not confirm a Bullitt County rule that allows long-term RV living, temporary camping, or tiny-home occupancy on private land; ask Planning and Zoning about the proposed occupancy1. Ask Planning and Zoning whether the use is allowed in the parcel's district before relying on any of those arrangements; the office administers zoning classifications and compliance in unincorporated Bullitt County1. A site-built tiny home is new construction, so Bullitt County's building-permit rule applies, and Kentucky residential-code standards govern covered homes1,7. Where public sewer is unavailable, a building may connect to an approved private sewage system, but septic permits and inspections still apply2,18. Seepage pits, cesspools, and dry wells are generally prohibited, subject to narrow repair and legacy-lot exceptions19.

Building a home in Bullitt County: what are the steps, in order?

Ask Planning and Zoning for the parcel's zoning classification, zoning-compliance requirements, and floodplain determination.

  1. Ask Planning and Zoning for the parcel's zoning classification, zoning-compliance requirements, and floodplain determination1.
  2. If dividing the tract, submit the site plan or subdivision plat for county review; a qualifying agricultural division involving no new street may fall outside the statutory subdivision definition1,3.
  3. Complete the Health Department's site evaluation and obtain the septic permit before installing a new system or repairing an existing one2.
  4. If the project is in an identified floodplain or involves development in, along, or across a stream, confirm both state and local approvals before work begins4,5.
  5. Submit plans to Buildings & Safety for code review, then confirm current fees and the inspection sequence1.
  6. For a new or additional farm or single-family driveway within a state-highway right-of-way, apply in writing to the Department of Highways District Engineer20.

What should you check before you buy land in Bullitt County?

Ask the Health Department for a septic site evaluation before making an offer: only about 9.1% of Bullitt County soils are rated free of severe limits for a conventional drain field.

Ask the Health Department for a septic site evaluation before making an offer: only about 9.1% of Bullitt County soils are rated free of severe limits for a conventional drain field17. Check the parcel's zoning classification and mapped-floodplain status with Planning and Zoning because identified-floodplain development needs state and local permits1,5. Confirm legal road access and, for a state-highway connection, whether the required approach application has been approved20. Kentucky requires no owner application or fee to construct or abandon a private well, but a Kentucky Certified Water Well Driller must perform the work6. Bullitt County's median property tax bill is about $1,994 a year at an effective rate near 0.9%17.

Watch-outs

  • Kentucky's single-family exception does not answer Bullitt County's local process: Buildings & Safety states that it issues permits for all new construction and structural remodeling1,7.
  • Since August 1, 2008, any construction-related land disturbance of more than 1 acre, or on a lot of any size that's part of a common development plan, needs its own stormwater permit from Buildings & Safety1.
  • Kentucky's owner-occupant HVAC exemption is limited to contractor licensing and still requires a permit for an initial system; do not treat it as a general owner-builder permit exemption21.
  • Development in, along, or across a stream needs Kentucky Division of Water approval, and identified-floodplain development also needs a local permit; Kentucky floodplain construction criteria include elevation and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes4,5,22.

Sources

22 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 12, 2026

  1. Buildings & Safety / Planning and Zoning
  2. Sewage
  3. KRS 100.111 — Definitions for chapter (Kentucky statewide rule)
  4. Permits, Certifications, and Approvals — Division of Water
  5. Find Your Flood Zone (Kentucky statewide rule)
  6. Water Well Information
  7. 815 KAR 7:125 Kentucky Residential Code
  8. Shepherdsville: § 151.21 Building Permits; Required; Application (Bullitt County)
  9. Hillview: § 150.21 Permit Required (Bullitt County)
  10. Shepherdsville: § 52.035 Public Sewer Not Available (Bullitt County)
  11. Mount Washington: § 153.01 Zoning Regulations and Map Adopted by Reference (Bullitt County)
  12. Shepherdsville: § 157.01 Zoning Regulations Adopted by Reference (Bullitt County)
  13. Bullitt County Fiscal Court Regular Session Minutes, August 19, 2021
  14. KRS 100.277 — Commission approval required for subdivisions (Kentucky statewide rule)
  15. Bullitt County Health Department – Environmental Services (bullitthealth.org)
  16. 902 KAR 10:085. System Installation Inspection (Kentucky statewide rule)
  17. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  18. 815 KAR 20:130. House sewers and storm water piping; methods of installation (Kentucky statewide rule)
  19. 902 KAR 10:085 Kentucky Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems (Kentucky statewide rule)
  20. 603 KAR 1:020 Driveway approaches, entrances; construction and maintenance
  21. KRS 198B.674 — Exemptions (Kentucky statewide rule)
  22. 401 KAR 4:060 Stream construction criteria

Written October 12, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Bullitt County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleBullitt CountyNelson CountyJefferson CountySpencer CountyHardin CountyLarue CountyMeade County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.Lincoln Trail District Health Dept.Louisville Metro Dept. of Public Health & WellnessNorth Central District Health Dept.Lincoln Trail District Health Dept.Lincoln Trail District Health Dept.Lincoln Trail District Health Dept.

County locator

Bullitt County in Kentucky

47
County map
Bullitt County highlighted among the Kentucky counties · colored by Index score

How Bullitt County scores

47 / 100 · #111 of 120 in Kentucky · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion22100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency68100% ev.
Admin Boringness4190% ev.
Durability62100% ev.
Property Autonomy33100% ev.
Carry Cost73100% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$299kTypical home
0.9%Property tax
$7,883Land / acre
50"Annual rain
2.6% of yrsSevere drought
12 / yr (+11.2)Mid-century 100°F days
13.8 daysMid-century dry spell
2.16" (+9.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.81×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,503Home insurance / yr
-1.2% / yrInsurance growth
0.56%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
309,102People within 30 min
3,738,860People within 2 hr
327,385Radius comparison (15 mi)
285.7People / sq mi
18.7%Federal land
54.7%Land at 15% slope or less
9.1%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
16,884 acWorkable land screen
73.7%Wooded land
61.3 tonsBiomass / forest ac
56.5°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Bullitt County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet covered: Fox Chase · Hebron Estates · Hunters Hollow · Lebanon Junction · Pioneer Village

Answers from the rulebook for Bullitt County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Bullitt County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    New construction and remodeling with structural changes handled by Bullitt County Department of Building and Safety.

    • The cited page expressly covers all new construction and remodeling with structural changes.
    • The page does not enumerate every exemption or incorporated-municipality variation.
    “The Department of Building and Safety issues building, electrical, and heating-cooling permits for all new construction and for remodeling with structural changes.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New construction and remodeling with structural changes handled by the Bullitt County Department of Buildings and Safety.
      “The Department of Building and Safety issues building, electrical, and heating-cooling permits for all new construction and for remodeling with structural changes.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Owner installation of an onsite sewage system in Bullitt County.

    • The homeowner may apply only if the system will be installed by the homeowner.
    • If the homeowner does not install it, a Certified Installer must apply for the permit.
    • A site evaluation and system requirements precede the permit application.
    “When the site evaluation has been completed and you receive the system requirements, a homeowner may apply for the onsite sewage permit if the system will be installed by the homeowner. A Certified Installer must apply for the permit if the homeowner does not install it.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning classifications, zoning compliance, and zoning enforcement in unincorporated Bullitt County.

    • The official county page specifically identifies the unincorporated area; incorporated municipalities may administer separate rules.
    • Rezoning, subdivision, variance, and conditional-use applications are processed through the Joint Planning Commission and Joint Board of Adjustments.
    “We provide information on zoning classifications * Give floodplain determinations for the unincorporated area of the county Issue building permits and zoning compliances for construction projects * Issue sign permits * Review site plans and subdivision plats for new developments * Assign addresses for most areas of the county * Investigate alleged zoning violations”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Local zoning administered for the unincorporated area of Bullitt County.

    • This claim does not establish that the county administers incorporated-municipality zoning.
    “We provide information on zoning classifications * Give floodplain determinations for the unincorporated area of the county Issue building permits and zoning compliances for construction projects”
  • Zoning districtsPartial

    Official county zoning ordinances identify at least Agricultural and R-1 Residential classifications for specific unincorporated parcels; the complete district schedule was not located.

    • The cited classification change applies to the specific parcel and Planning Commission docket identified in the ordinance.
    • The ordinance states it takes effect upon passage and publication as required by law.
    “SECTION ONE: That the above property located in the unincorporated area of Bullitt County and more particularly described in the minutes and records of the Planning Commission in Docket Number 20212-22 is hereby changed from Agricultural to R-1 Residential.”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    On-site sewage disposal systems in Bullitt County.

    • The Bullitt County Health Department performs site evaluations, inspections, permit issuance, and complaint investigations.
    • State septic regulations also apply.
    “The Bullitt County Health Department performs site evaluations, conducts inspections, issues permits, and investigates complaints for onsite sewage disposal systems.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • County — Onsite sewage disposal systems in Bullitt County.
      “The Bullitt County Health Department performs site evaluations, conducts inspections, issues permits, and investigates complaints for onsite sewage disposal systems.”
    • Mixed (with conditions) — On-site sewage disposal in Bullitt County.
      “The Bullitt County Health Department performs site evaluations, conducts inspections, issues permits, and investigates complaints for onsite sewage disposal systems.”
    • County (with conditions) — Onsite sewage disposal systems in Bullitt County.
      “The Bullitt County Health Department performs site evaluations, conducts inspections, issues permits, and investigates complaints for onsite sewage disposal systems.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    New onsite sewage installations and repairs to existing onsite sewage systems in Bullitt County.

    • A site evaluation is required as part of the stated process.
    • A certified installer must apply when the homeowner is not installing the system.
    • Bullitt County lists a $275 sewage permit fee and requires approval by the environmentalist before issuance.

    sewage permit fee: 275 USD

    “Any new installations or repairs to existing on-site sewage systems are regulated and require a permit from this department.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Inspection of newly installed onsite sewage systems and established sewage-system inspections.

    • The installer must call for an inspection when the system has been installed.
    • An established-system inspection costs $75.
    • For established-system inspection, the inspector verifies the tank and lateral field and checks for leakage; a leaking system will not be approved.

    established sewage inspection fee: 75 USD

    “A sewage permit will be issued after all of the above have been approved by the environmentalist. The installer will call for an inspection when the system has been installed.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Newly installed and established onsite sewage systems in Bullitt County.
      “A sewage permit will be issued after all of the above have been approved by the environmentalist. The installer will call for an inspection when the system has been installed.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision review and subdivision plats for new developments in Bullitt County.

    • The county page states that site plans and subdivision plats are reviewed for new developments.
    • The county office processes subdivision review applications.
    “Review site plans and subdivision plats for new developments * Assign addresses for most areas of the county * Investigate alleged zoning violations We are the administrative office for the Bullitt County Joint Planning Commission and Joint Board of Adjustments and process applications for rezoning requests, subdivision review, and variance and conditional use permit applications.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision and development review in Bullitt County.
      “We are the administrative office for the Bullitt County Joint Planning Commission and Joint Board of Adjustments and process applications for rezoning requests, subdivision review, and variance and conditional use permit applications.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Published Bullitt County onsite sewage evaluation, sewage permit, and established-system inspection fees.

    • The site-evaluation fee is $250, or $350 for a farm evaluation.
    • The sewage permit fee is $275.
    • The established sewage inspection fee is $75.

    site evaluation fee: 250 USD (farm evaluation $350) · sewage permit fee: 275 USD · established sewage inspection fee: 75 USD

    “Cash, check, credit card, online pay, or money order for $250 (farm evaluation $350) made payable to Bullitt County Health Department.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Building and planning permit information and application processing in Bullitt County.

    • The county page directs applicants to the Department of Building and Safety for permits and inspections.
    • Planning and Zoning processes rezoning, subdivision review, variance, and conditional-use permit applications.
    “For more information on obtaining a permit or to request an inspection, contact the Division at 502-921-2970.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — Building, zoning, subdivision, variance, and conditional-use permit administration in Bullitt County.
      “We are the administrative office for the Bullitt County Joint Planning Commission and Joint Board of Adjustments and process applications for rezoning requests, subdivision review, and variance and conditional use permit applications.”
    • Partial — Bullitt County building, zoning, subdivision, variance, conditional-use, and rezoning processes.
      “For more information on obtaining a permit or to request an inspection, contact the Division at 502-921-2970.”

Kentucky rules that apply here

  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Buildings constructed statewide in Kentucky, including residential and nonresidential construction subject to the Kentucky Building Code and Kentucky Residential Code.

    • The 2015 International Building Code is the mandatory state building code for buildings constructed in Kentucky, subject to Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Building Code.
    • One-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, and townhouses are governed by 815 KAR 7:125 and the 2015 International Residential Code with Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Residential Code.
    • Permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy are not required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.
    • Residential occupancies that are not single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, or townhouses must comply with the 2015 International Building Code and the 2018 Kentucky Building Code.
    • Manufactured homes are governed by KRS 227.550 through 227.665.

    base building code: 2015 International Building Code (Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Building Code supersede conflicting provisions) · residential code: 2015 International Residential Code; 2018 Kentucky Residential Code amendments (Applies to single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, and townhouses under 815 KAR 7:125) · mandatory effective date: 2019-01-01

    “Building Code. The 2015 International Building shall be the mandatory state building code for all buildings constructed in Kentucky except that: (1) The Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Building Code shall supersede any conflicting provision in the 2015 International Building Code; (2) One (1) family dwellings, two (2) family dwellings, and townhouses shall be governed by 815 KAR 7:125; and (3) Manufactured homes shall be governed by KRS 227.550 through 227.665.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Kentucky residential construction, including single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, and townhouses in Bullitt County.
      “Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the 2015 International Residential Code for One (1) and Two (2) Family Dwellings (IRC) shall be the mandatory state residential building code for all single-family dwellings, two (2) family dwellings, and townhouses constructed in Kentucky, except that the Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Residential Code shall supersede any conflicting provision in the 2015 IRC.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — One- and two-family dwellings and townhouses constructed in Kentucky, including Bullitt County.
      “mandatory state residential building code”
    • Adopted — Mandatory Kentucky residential building-code standards for single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, and townhouses constructed statewide, including unincorporated areas.
      “Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the 2015 International Residential Code for One (1) and Two (2) Family Dwellings (IRC) shall be the mandatory state residential building code for all single-family dwellings, two (2) family dwellings, and townhouses constructed in Kentucky, except that the Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Residential Code shall supersede any conflicting provision in the 2015 IRC.”
  • InspectionsNot required (with conditions)

    Single-family dwellings constructed in Kentucky under the Kentucky Residential Code.

    • A local ordinance may independently require inspections.
    • This claim does not determine municipal or county inspection ordinances.
    “Permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy shall not be required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Certificates of occupancy under Kentucky residential-code requirements applicable in Bullitt County.

    • Certificates of occupancy are not required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.
    • The source does not establish whether Bullitt County has adopted a separate certificate-of-occupancy requirement for single-family dwellings.
    “certificates of occupancy shall not be required for a single-family dwelling”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Not required (with conditions) — Single-family dwellings constructed in Kentucky under the Kentucky Residential Code.
      “Permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy shall not be required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Fire-separation distance from a property line for exterior walls, projections, openings, and penetrations of detached one- and two-family dwellings, townhouses, and accessory buildings governed by the Kentucky Residential Code; this is a building-code fire-separation requirement, not a statewide zoning-yard schedule.

    • Walls, projections, openings, or penetrations perpendicular to the line used to determine fire separation distance are excepted.
    • Walls of dwellings and accessory structures located on the same lot are excepted.
    • Detached tool sheds, storage sheds, playhouses, and similar permit-exempt structures are not required to provide wall protection based on location on the lot; projections may not extend over the lot line.
    • A detached garage accessory to a dwelling within 2 feet of a lot line may have roof-eave projections no greater than 4 inches.
    • For qualifying building applications with local zoning approvals for plats or preliminary concept or master plans before July 1, 2007, a dwelling less than 3 feet from the property line must have at least a one-hour rating with exposure from both sides and may not have openings.
    • A minimum exterior-wall fire-separation distance of 3 feet is allowed when the adjacent-site exterior wall is restricted by deed or other recorded land restriction so that at least 10 feet separates the dwelling exterior walls; projections more than 12 inches beyond the exterior wall are prohibited.
    • KRS 100.203 authorizes cities and counties to adopt local zoning regulations concerning structure location, open-space percentages, and minimum distances; local zoning may therefore impose additional or different yard setbacks.

    non-fire-resistance-rated exterior wall minimum fire separation distance: >= 5 ft · fire-resistance-rated exterior wall fire separation distance: < 5 ft (One-hour rating tested in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263 with exposure from both sides.) · openings at fire separation distance: < 3 ft (Not allowed.) · openings and penetrations aggregate maximum wall area: <= 25 percent (For walls more than 3 feet and less than 5 feet from a property line.)

    “R302.1 Exterior walls. Construction, projections, openings and penetrations of exterior walls of dwellings and accessory buildings shall comply with Table R302.1(1).”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Recreational vehicle communities (public/semipublic recreational areas) in Kentucky; not a statewide rule on RV occupancy on a single private lot

    • Permit application (DFS-317) to construct or alter an RV community goes to the local health department
    • Plan drawn to scale in triplicate; quadruplicate if in a floodplain
    • Cabinet responds in writing within 30 business days
    • Community must be on well drained area, not in a floodplain (engineering study and flood insurance if high flood risk)
    • Exempt RV communities operated under KRS 219.410 are defined separately
    • Local zoning may impose additional limits; not researched here

    minimum RV space: >= 1500 square feet · separation between RVs and other structures: >= 15 feet · setback from public street right-of-way: >= 25 feet · definition of temporary: <= 14 days per calendar year · definition of seasonal: <= 90 consecutive days per calendar year

    “in accordance with krs 219.350, each application for a permit, dfs-317, to construct or alter a recreational vehicle community shall be submitted to the local health department.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Camping or sleeping in the specified public and private pedestrian or vehicle-use areas statewide.

    • The person must knowingly enter or remain in a listed area with intent to sleep or camp.
    • The area must not have been designated for sleeping or camping, or the individual must lack authorization to sleep or camp there.
    • The listed areas include streets, sidewalks, areas under bridges or underpasses, paths, parks, cemeteries, and other areas designated for pedestrians or vehicles, including ingress or egress areas to businesses, homes, or public buildings.
    • The first offense is a violation; a second or subsequent offense, or a first offense where the person refuses to cease, is a Class B misdemeanor.
    • The section does not prohibit customary and temporary use of recreational camping areas, rest areas, or other properties specifically designated for resting or sleeping.
    • Temporary sleeping in a vehicle parked lawfully on a public road, street, or parking lot is not prevented when sleeping and parking occur for less than twelve (12) hours.

    temporary vehicle sleeping period: < 12 hours (The vehicle must be parked lawfully on a public road, street, or parking lot.)

    “A person is guilty of unlawful camping when he or she knowingly enters or remains on a public or private street, sidewalk, area under a bridge or underpass, path, park, cemetery, or other area designated for use by pedestrians or vehicles, including areas used for ingress or egress to businesses, homes, or public buildings, with the intent to sleep or camp in that area, when the area has not been designated for the purpose of sleeping or camping or the individual lacks authorization to sleep or camp in the area.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Temporary camping locations for unsheltered homeless individuals designated by local governments under Kentucky law.
      “A local government may designate indoor or outdoor areas with defined boundaries in an area zoned for commercial or industrial use, separate from any area frequently used for public purposes, as a temporary camping location for unsheltered homeless individuals.”
    • Limited — Temporary parking of recreational vehicles on public or private property associated with specified publicly announced events.
      “Nothing in KRS 219.310 to 219.410 shall be construed to apply to the temporary parking of recreational vehicles on public or private property, for not more than thirty (30) days, associated with festivals, fairs, sporting events, yard sales, or other publicly announced events.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Tiny houses used as single dwelling units set on a permanent foundation under the Kentucky Residential Code

    • Section R328 applies only to tiny houses set on a permanent foundation
    • Tiny houses must otherwise comply with the code except as stated in R328
    • Local zoning may add rules; not researched here
    “this section shall be applicable to tiny houses used as single dwelling units set on a permanent foundation. tiny houses shall comply with this code except as otherwise stated in this section.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Qualified manufactured homes in residential zones of local governments engaged in planning and zoning under KRS Chapter 100

    • Applies to cities, counties, urban-county, charter county, unified local and consolidated local governments engaged in planning and zoning under KRS Chapter 100
    • Qualified manufactured home: manufactured not more than 5 years before installation, transport parts removed, permanent foundation, installed per KRS 227.570, at least 20 feet wide (or two stories with entrance facing street), at least 900 sq ft living area
    • Local governments may adopt compatibility standards limited to roof pitch, livable square footage, exterior materials, foundation skirting, attached structures, and setbacks/lot dimensions/orientation no stricter than for site-built homes
    • Architectural standards must be equivalent to, not more stringent than, those for other single-family structures in the zone
    • Compatibility measured by assessed value of housing within 1/8 mile
    • Smaller homes may be treated as qualified if lot setbacks would not reasonably accommodate a 20 ft / 900 sq ft home
    • Does not affect deed restrictions, covenants or historic property regulations; violating regulations are void
    • Text effective July 1, 2026

    minimum width: >= 20 feet (or two stories with main entrance facing street; smaller homes if lot cannot accommodate) · minimum living area: >= 900 square feet (smaller if lot cannot accommodate) · compatibility radius: <= 0.125 mile

    “a local government shall not adopt or enforce any zoning regulation, ordinance, or other requirement that: (a) excludes qualified manufactured homes from any residential zone where single-family residences are permitted”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Accessory dwelling units on lots containing a single-family home in a county containing a consolidated local government, when a new lease is initiated after June 27, 2025 and the lot is in a traditional single-family home zone.

    • The owner may not lease or allow the accessory dwelling unit to be occupied unless the owner primarily resides in the single-family home, multifamily housing unit, or accessory dwelling unit on the lot.
    • The restriction applies only in a county containing a consolidated local government.
    • A traditional single-family home zone is a zone that, as of January 1, 2025, did not include multifamily homes as a permitted use.
    • The restriction does not apply to a lot containing only one single-family home and no accessory dwelling unit.
    • The statutory effective date is June 27, 2025.

    new lease applicability date: > 2025-06-27 (The statute applies to new leases initiated after June 27, 2025.)

    “In a county containing a consolidated local government, for new leases initiated after June 27, 2025, a property owner shall not lease or allow to be occupied any single-family home, multifamily housing unit, or accessory dwelling unit located on a lot that contains a single-family home and that is located in a traditional single-family home zone, unless the owner primarily resides in the single-family home or multifamily housing unit or an accessory dwelling unit on the lot.”
  • Off-grid sanitationProhibited

    Use of seepage pits, cesspools, or dry wells as onsite sewage disposal systems statewide in Kentucky, subject to the Section 13 exception.

    • The prohibition is subject to the exception provided in Section 13 of 902 KAR 10:085.
    • Section 13 permits limited repair or alteration of existing seepage-pit systems when municipal or public sewage treatment is unavailable and repair or alteration is required because of malfunction, damage, or upgrade.
    • A limited single-family vacant-lot exception applies to certain lots purchased on or before May 1, 1992, if bona fide construction began by December 25, 1992.
    “Except as provided in Section 13 of this administrative regulation, use of seepage pits, cesspools, or dry wells;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Well permitNot required

    Construction or abandonment of a private water well by a property owner statewide in Kentucky.

    • Construction, modification, and abandonment must be performed by a Kentucky Certified Water Well Driller.
    • The certified driller must complete and submit required documentation within sixty days after completion.
    • The conclusion concerns owner permitting applications and fees; it does not eliminate the separate driller-certification requirement.

    well documentation submission deadline: 60 days after completion

    “there are no permitting applications or fees for constructing or abandoning a water well required of the property owner.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not required — Construction or abandonment of private water wells by property owners in Bullitt County.
      “In Kentucky, there are no permitting applications or fees for constructing or abandoning a water well required of the property owner.”
    • Not required — Construction or abandonment of private domestic water wells in Kentucky, including Bullitt County.
      “In Kentucky, there are no permitting applications or fees for constructing or abandoning a water well required of the property owner.”
    • Limited — Construction, alteration, repair, or abandonment of water supply wells in Kentucky.
      “A person shall not construct, alter, repair, or abandon a water well without first obtaining a water well driller or water well driller assistant certificate”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Buildings subject to the Kentucky State Plumbing Code.

    • A building must have an independent connection to either a public or private sewer or sewer system.
    • If a sewer is not available, the house drain must connect to an approved private sewage disposal system.
    • The cited rule does not establish a universal requirement to connect to public water service.
    “If a sewer is not available, the house drain from a building shall connect with an approved private sewage disposal system.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Agritourism buildings subject to the Kentucky Building Code.

    • Except as otherwise provided, an agritourism building must comply with the Kentucky Building Code.
    • The exemption applies to an agritourism building built prior to December 31, 2016.
    • The pre-December 31, 2016 building is exempt from seismic requirements.
    • If the building has a capacity of 400 persons or is 6,000 square feet or less, it does not require the services of a Kentucky-licensed architect.

    construction date threshold: < December 31, 2016 · building capacity threshold: <= 400 persons (The statute states "has a capacity of four hundred (400) persons or is six thousand (6,000) square feet or less.") · building area threshold: <= 6000 square feet (The statute states "has a capacity of four hundred (400) persons or is six thousand (6,000) square feet or less.")

    “An agritourism building built prior to December 31, 2016, shall be exempt from the following requirements within the Kentucky Building Code: (a) An agritourism building built prior to December 31, 2016, shall not be required to comply with the seismic requirements within the Kentucky Building Code; and (b) If an agritourism building has a capacity of four hundred (400) persons or is six thousand (6,000) square feet or less, an agritourism building built prior to December 31, 2016, shall not require the services of an architect licensed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Division of land for agricultural use under Kentucky subdivision law.
      “provided that a division of land for agricultural use and not involving a new street shall not be deemed a subdivision.”
  • Shed and accessory-building permit exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Building-permit requirement for a one-story detached accessory structure used as a tool shed, storage shed, playhouse, or similar use that is governed by the Kentucky Residential Code.

    • The exemption is limited to one-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses.
    • The floor area must not exceed 200 square feet (18.58 m²).
    • The exemption does not authorize work that violates the code or any other laws or ordinances of the jurisdiction.
    • The Kentucky Residential Code applies to detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses no more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress, and their accessory structures.
    • 815 KAR 7:125 separately provides that permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy are not required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.

    maximum exempt accessory-structure floor area: <= 200 sq ft (One-story detached structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses.) · maximum exempt accessory-structure floor area: <= 18.58 m² (One-story detached structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses.)

    “One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet (18.58 m²).”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New or additional private farm or single-family dwelling driveway approaches within Kentucky Department of Highways rights-of-way, including Bullitt County.

    • Formal written application is made to the District Engineer.
    • The applicant supplies required drainage pipe, tile, or other drainage structure at the applicant's expense.
    • The department may participate up to $300 in specified construction assistance.
    • No indemnity bond or other security is required for farm or single-family dwelling approaches unless estimated right-of-way construction cost exceeds $300.

    department construction participation: <= 300 USD (equipment, labor, and/or materials for specified drainage structure, grading, and surfacing) · security threshold: > 300 USD (estimated construction cost within right-of-way limits)

    “shall make formal application in writing”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — New or additional private farm or single-family dwelling driveway approaches on Kentucky Department of Highways rights-of-way.
      “The owner or occupant of property, who desires to construct new or additional private farm or single family dwelling driveway approaches, shall make formal application in writing, to the District Engineer of the Department of Highways.”
    • Required — New, additional, relocated, or modified driveway entrance approaches serving commercial property or property used for a purpose other than farming or a single-family dwelling.
      “The owner or occupant of property, used for commercial or any purpose other than farming or single family dwelling, who desires to construct new or additional driveway entrance approaches, to relocate, or make other changes in existing driveway entrance approaches thereto, shall make application for a permit to the District Engineer of the Department of Highways upon standard forms furnished by the Transportation Cabinet.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development in an identified Kentucky floodplain, including development in mapped A and AE zones.

    • Both a state and local floodplain permit are required for development in an identified floodplain.
    • State and local permits are required for development in A and AE zones.
    • The Kentucky Division of Water issues general or individual floodplain permits.
    • General permits cover eligible activities that do not change the Base Flood Elevation and have minimal flood-risk potential.
    • Developments that do not meet general-permit eligibility or could change the Base Flood Elevation require an individual permit.
    • The source directs applicants to consult the local floodplain coordinator for local requirements.

    general permit nonsubstantial improvement threshold: < 50 percent of structure valuation (including labor)

    “Any development in an identified floodplain in Kentucky requires a state and a local floodplain permit.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Development and construction in Kentucky floodplain areas, including Bullitt County.
      “Applicability. This administrative regulation shall apply to all construction across, along, or adjacent to a stream (i.e., the base floodplain) or in the floodway of a stream for which a construction permit is required pursuant to KRS 151.250, 44 C.F.R. Part 60, and 44 C.F.R. 64.3, except for the construction of dams as defined in KRS 151.100.”
    • Required — Development in, along, or across a stream in Bullitt County and elsewhere in Kentucky.
      “The Division of Water is authorized through KRS 151 to manage development in floodplains. Any type of development in, along, or across a stream requires a floodplain permit from the Division.”
  • Campground & park staysTemporary only (with conditions)

    Sleeping temporarily in a recreational vehicle or other vehicle in a vehicle-based location covered by KRS 511.110.

    • The vehicle must be parked lawfully on a public road, street, or parking lot.
    • Sleeping and parking at the location must occur for less than twelve (12) hours.
    • This provision does not establish permission for long-term or permanent RV occupancy on private land.
    • KRS 511.110 separately prohibits camping in specified areas when the area has not been designated for sleeping or camping or the person lacks authorization.

    maximum sleeping and parking period: < 12 hours

    “Nothing in this section shall prevent a person from sleeping temporarily in his or her vehicle parked lawfully on a public road, street, or parking lot, where the sleeping and parking of the vehicle at the location occur for a period of less than twelve (12) hours.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Kentucky counties' statutory authority to enact zoning regulations, including county-regulated areas outside incorporated municipalities as determined by the applicable planning-unit and political-boundary structure.

    • The statute expressly authorizes both cities and counties to enact zoning regulations.
    • A zoning regulation must contain text listing the types of zones and regulations applicable in each zone, uniform throughout the zone, and provisions for variances, conditional-use permits, and nonconforming uses.
    • Authorized subjects include land activities, structure dimensions and locations, open-space and distance requirements, density, special-interest districts, fringe areas, and activities or structures near thoroughfares, water bodies, public facilities, aircraft facilities, unique places, and floodplains.
    • Agricultural land must have no regulations except that setback lines may be required for streets and highways; floodway or floodplain buildings or structures may be fully regulated; mobile homes and other dwellings may be regulated; and uses under KRS 100.111(2)(c) may be regulated as conditional uses.
    • The applicable planning unit and political boundaries determine the area governed by a county zoning regulation.
    “Cities and counties may enact zoning regulations which shall contain:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — Kentucky counties may adopt permanent land-use regulations, including zoning, through the applicable planning-unit process; this authority reaches county jurisdiction, including unincorporated areas, subject to the statutory planning prerequisites.
      “When all required elements of the comprehensive plan have been adopted in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, then the legislative bodies and fiscal courts within the planning unit may enact permanent land use regulations, including zoning and other kinds of growth management regulations”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Kentucky fiscal courts may adopt and enforce construction regulations and may require building permits for construction in the county, including residential construction in unincorporated areas.

    • The construction regulations must be adopted by county order or resolution.
    • The regulations operate pursuant to KRS 198B.060 and the Uniform State Building Code framework.
    • A county building inspector may administer the regulations.
    • No person may build, erect, construct, reconstruct, remodel, relocate, alter, or repair a building within the county without first obtaining a building permit from the building inspector when the county permit system applies.
    • Permit fees must be reasonable and may not exceed the cost of the service provided.
    • A person aggrieved by the building inspector's ruling, order, or decision may appeal under KRS 198B.070.

    permit fee ceiling: <= cost of the service provided

    “The fiscal court of any county shall have authority, by order or resolution, to adopt, and to enforce, regulations governing construction as defined by KRS 198B.010 pursuant to the provisions of KRS 198B.060.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — Kentucky county authority, as a local government, to enforce the Uniform State Building Code and issue building permits within its jurisdiction, including unincorporated residential construction.
      “Each local government shall employ a building official or inspector and other code enforcement personnel as necessary, or shall contract for inspection and code enforcement services in accordance with subsections (8) and (11) of this section to enforce the Uniform State Building Code within the boundaries of its jurisdiction, except that permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy shall not be mandatory for single-family residences unless a local government passes an ordinance requiring inspections of single-family residences.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in unincorporated Bullitt County
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot size in unincorporated Bullitt County
  • Lot coverage — Lot-coverage limits in unincorporated Bullitt County.
  • Building height — Building-height limits in unincorporated Bullitt County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in unincorporated Bullitt County.

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Bullitt County, Kentucky

Is Bullitt County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Bullitt County scores 47/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and strong self-sufficiency basics: 50″/yr rainfall plus 73.7% wooded land. Watch-outs: about 309,102 people within a 30-minute drive and a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop.

How much does land cost in Bullitt County, Kentucky?

Land in Bullitt County runs about $7,883 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Bullitt County?

Bullitt County gets about 50" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 2.6% of years.

How remote is Bullitt County?

A representative private-land location has about 309,102 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,738,860 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Bullitt compares in Kentucky

Compare side-by-side →See all 120 Kentucky counties ranked →