Louisville Metro Zoning & Land Use Guide
Editor-verified· 2026-05-24
Last updated: Verified:
Key Zoning Facts
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Louisville Metro
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA Flood Zones: Applicable
- View FEMA Flood Map
County — Jefferson County
- Role: Merged with Louisville Metro Government; unified planning and zoning
City / Municipal
The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
No overlay districts identified.
Private Restrictions
- HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
- Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.
Primary Zoning Districts
R-4Single-Family Residential
- Min Lot
- 6,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 25 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 25 ft
R-6Multi-Family Residential
- Min Lot
- 6,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 50 ft
- Front Setback
- 25 ft
- Side Setback
- 10 ft
- Rear Setback
- 30 ft
C-1Commercial
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- 50 ft
- Front Setback
- 25 ft
- Side Setback
- 0 ft
- Rear Setback
- 0 ft
ADU Rules in Louisville Metro
ADUs:Allowed
- Max Size
- Greater of 800 sq ft or 30% of the principal structure (per Land Development Code §4.3.27)
- Rear Setback
- 5 ft (typical accessory-structure setback)
- Side Setback
- 2 ft (typical accessory-structure setback)
- Owner Occupancy
- Owner must reside in either the principal dwelling or the ADU (LDC §4.3.27)
Permit Costs & Timelines
Permit Costs & Timelines
Specific permit fee schedules for Louisville Metro are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check Louisville Metro permit fees →Official Sources
City-specific
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Louisville Metro?
Yes, Louisville Metro allows accessory dwelling units in certain residential zones subject to size limits, setbacks, and owner-occupancy requirements. Contact Planning & Design Services for your specific zoning district.
How do I find the zoning for my property in Louisville Metro?
Use Louisville Metro's LOJIC online mapping system or contact Planning & Design Services at (502) 574-6230.
What zones allow multi-family housing in Louisville Metro?
Multi-family housing is permitted in R-5 through R-8 districts and in certain commercial and mixed-use zones throughout the metro area.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Zoning codes and building regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local planning department and building authority before making any decisions.