ADU Rules in Paducah, Kentucky

Paducah is the McCracken County seat with a population of about 27,000 in the far western corner of Kentucky at the confluence of the Tennessee and Ohio rivers. Named a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art, Paducah is home to the National Quilt Museum and has a nationally recognized arts district (LowerTown Arts District). Kentucky has no statewide ADU preemption law — Paducah's local zoning governs.

Paducah Zoning Ordinance

The City of Paducah Zoning Ordinance governs all land use. Paducah has historic neighborhoods and an active arts preservation community.

Permitted ADU Types

Depending on the zoning district:

• Accessory apartments: Conversion within primary structure
• Detached accessory dwelling units: In rear yards of eligible zones

Verify current ADU provisions with Paducah's Planning Department.

Size Limits

Accessory dwelling units are subject to:

• Maximum floor area per zone
• Lot coverage restrictions

Verify current limits with Paducah Planning.

Setbacks

Per Paducah residential zone (typical):

• Rear: Minimum setback
• Side: Minimum setback

Ohio and Tennessee River Floodplains — CRITICAL

Paducah is at the confluence of two major rivers. Flood risk is significant:

• Large portions of Paducah are in FEMA AE flood zones
• The city has a floodwall protecting the core area — verify whether your property is within the floodwall protection zone
• Ohio River flooding can be extensive

Verify FEMA flood map status before any planning.

Historic Districts and Arts District

Paducah's LowerTown Arts District and other historic areas may have preservation requirements. Contact the Paducah Planning Department for historic overlay information.

Permit Process

1. Check flood zone status: CRITICAL — major rivers on two sides
2. Verify floodwall protection status: Is your property inside or outside the floodwall?
3. Verify zoning: Paducah Planning Department
4. Submit plans: Paducah Building Inspection Division
5. Building permit and inspections
6. CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

City of Paducah Planning Department 300 South 5th Street, Paducah, KY 42003 Phone: (270) 444-8690 Website: paducahky.gov

Disclaimer: Kentucky has no statewide ADU law. Paducah zoning governs locally. River confluence flood zones are significant — verify flood status before planning. Verify current ADU allowances with the City of Paducah before starting any project.