Everything you need to know about getting a deck permit in Lexington: fees, requirements, exemptions, and direct links to the Lexington Building Inspection.
Permit Fees
Minimum $50 plus $0.02 per square foot.
Processing Time
Contact Building Inspection for current processing times.
Apply Online
Yes — via Lexington Permit Portal
Building Code
2018 Kentucky Residential Code (based on 2015 IRC with KY amendments)
Contact: (859) 258-3770
Freestanding decks less than 200 sq ft do not require a permit. Attached decks always require a permit.
If your deck does NOT meet all exemption criteria, you must obtain a permit before construction. Building without a required permit can result in fines, stop-work orders, and required demolition.
Review the exemption criteria above. If your deck exceeds any threshold, a permit is required.
You'll need a site plan, deck dimensions, framing details, and footing specifications. Check Lexington's specific documentation requirements.
Apply through Lexington Permit Portal . Pay the permit fee at submission.
Once approved, post your permit visibly and schedule required inspections (typically footing, framing, and final).
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Sources
Data verified April 2026. Fees, processing times, and requirements are subject to change. Always confirm current information with Lexington's Lexington Building Inspection.