ADU Rules in Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville/Jefferson County Metro Government is Kentucky's largest city with a population of about 633,000 in Jefferson County. In 2003, the City of Louisville merged with Jefferson County to form Louisville Metro — a consolidated government. Located on the Ohio River across from Jeffersonville, Indiana, Louisville is known for the Kentucky Derby, Louisville Slugger baseball bats, Muhammad Ali, and bourbon whiskey. Kentucky has no statewide ADU preemption law — Louisville Metro's Land Development Code governs.

Louisville Metro Land Development Code

The Louisville Metro Land Development Code (LDC) governs all zoning in Jefferson County. Louisville Metro has been working to expand ADU options as part of housing affordability efforts.

Permitted ADU Types

Per Louisville Metro LDC:

• Detached ADUs: Standalone structure in rear yard
• Attached ADUs: Addition to primary structure
• Interior conversions: Converting existing space

Louisville Metro has been expanding ADU allowances — verify current specific standards with Planning and Design Services.

Size Limits

Per Louisville Metro LDC:

• ADU size limits apply per zone — verify current standards
• Must be accessory to and smaller than primary dwelling

Setbacks

Per Louisville Metro residential zone:

• Rear: Minimum setback
• Side: Minimum setback
• Accessory structures: Per LDC

Ohio River Floodplain

Parts of Louisville near the Ohio River are in FEMA flood zones. Ohio River flooding is significant. Verify FEMA flood map status for properties near the river and in low-lying areas.

Historic Districts

Louisville has several National Register historic districts including Old Louisville, Butchertown, and others. Properties in historic districts may require Louisville Historic Preservation Review Commission review.

Permit Process

1. Verify ADU eligibility: Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services
2. Check flood zone status: If near the Ohio River
3. Historic review: If in a designated historic district
4. Submit plans: Louisville Metro Building Inspection Division
5. Building permit and inspections
6. CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services 444 South 5th Street, Suite 300, Louisville, KY 40202 Phone: (502) 574-6230 Website: louisvilleky.gov

Disclaimer: Kentucky has no statewide ADU law. Louisville Metro LDC governs throughout Jefferson County. ADU policies have been evolving. Verify current standards with Louisville Metro before starting any project.