Permit requirements · Kentucky
Louisville Metro, KY HVAC permit requirements
What the adopted code says, what the permit office actually collects, and where each answer comes from.
Adopted residential code
2018 Kentucky Residential Code, Third Edition (August 2024), based on the 2015 IRC. Listed on Metro's 'Codes for Construction Review' page.
SourceEnergy code
2009 IECC for residential, per the state KRC. Metro's codes page lists the 2012 IECC (KY Building Code, commercial) and hosts a 2009 IECC document. Local 'HVAC Code Change' page: permits issued on or after 2023-01-01 need SEER 15 cooling / 8.8 HSPF heat pumps (federal SE-region minimums).
SourceLoad calculation (Manual J / S)
RequiredNo local amendment found. KRC keeps 2015 IRC M1401.3 unamended (Manual S sizing on Manual J loads). No Louisville checklist requiring the load calc to be submitted was verified.
SourceDuct design (Manual D)
Not verifiedInherits the state position. No local source found.
Equipment replacements (changeouts)
A local HVAC permit is required for replacements, unlike the state's optional replacement permit. Metro: an HVAC/mechanical permit is required to 'erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any mechanical system' regulated by the KBC/KRC, and the HVAC contractor must obtain a Louisville Metro HVAC permit before new installation or replacement work. Fee for a 1-2 family home: $105 first system.
SourceWhat the submittal asks for
Permits go to the primary-resident owner or a licensed HVAC contractor. Owners need photo ID and proof of ownership, and the property 'cannot be a rental or commercial'. Apply online and 'upload any required documents'. Plans are reviewed in DigEplan (launched 2026-01-12). The list of required attachments (load calc, duct layout) was not verified.
SourcePermit portal
Questions
Does Louisville Metro, KY require a Manual J?
Yes. No local amendment found. KRC keeps 2015 IRC M1401.3 unamended (Manual S sizing on Manual J loads). No Louisville checklist requiring the load calc to be submitted was verified.
What code does Louisville Metro, KY use?
2018 Kentucky Residential Code, Third Edition (August 2024), based on the 2015 IRC. Listed on Metro's 'Codes for Construction Review' page.
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