Whether it’s a new home, a business renovation, or a major development breaking ground, the Building Codes Administration Department is here to help ensure projects are done right — safely, legally, and according to the state building codes.

The department serves as a partner throughout the process, supporting architects, engineers, builders, contractors, developers, and homeowners alike. By enforcing building code standards, the department helps protect the health, safety, and well-being of everyone in the community, including:

  • Structural strength and stability
  • Safe exits and pathways (means of egress)
  • Sanitation
  • Adequate light and ventilation
  • Energy efficiency
  • Overall life and property safety

What we do:

  • Review building plans for both residential and commercial projects
  • Issue building permits
  • Conduct field inspections from start to finish

The goal is simple: to make sure every project is built safely, built to code, and built to last.

Department Staff

  • Gary Forsyth, II, CBO – Director & Chief Building Official
  • Tim Tholemeier – Senior Building Official
  • Amy Eveler – Senior Building Official
  • Danny Arlinghaus – Principal Building Official
  • Brandon Marksberry – Principal Building Official
  • Liza Duncan – Associate Building Official
  • David Huesman – Associate Building Official
  • Jill Hensley – Certified Permit Technician
  • Danielle Jefferson – Certified Permit Technician
  • Sheila Spradling – Certified Permit Technician

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Permits are processed by the order date they are received.

  • Electrical permits: 5 business days
  • Zoning only permits (i.e., fence, small shed, driveway, etc.): 1-3 business days
  • Residential permits (i.e., new house, deck, detached garage, room addition, HVAC, etc.): 12 business days
  • Commercial permits (i.e., new buildings, multi-family, fire suppression systems, fire alarm, range hood, HVAC, etc.): 12 business days

Please note that permit approval times may vary depending on the workload and the information provided during the application process. Please contact our office at (859) 957-2408 or permits@pdskc.org if you have any further questions regarding permits.

Please use the checklists provided here. Please contact our office at (859) 957-2408 or permits@pdskc.org if you have any further questions regarding permits.

The permit will be considered expired if any of the following conditions are met:

  • Work does not commence within six months
  • Work is stopped for more than six months
  • No inspections are completed

Extensions may be granted upon request. Please contact our office at (859) 957-2408 or permits@pdskc.org if you have any further questions regarding permits.

  • One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet. 
  • Fences not over 7 feet (2.1336 m) high.
  • Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade, not over any basement or story below, and not part of an accessible route.
  • Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work.
  • Swings and other playground equipment accessories to one-and two-family dwellings.
  • Replacing windows and window awnings supported by an exterior wall.
  • New siding or residing.
  • Ordinary re-roofing (no sheathing and/or structural members are being repaired or replaced).
  • Ordinary repairs such as repairing/replacing drywall or a door. Repairs made to any structural element of your home are not considered ordinary repairs. Replacing any structural element in your home is not considered ordinary repair.
  • Note: The above items in bold will require a zoning permit.

Please contact our office at (859) 957-2408 or permits@pdskc.org if you have any further questions regarding permits.

Quick Points of Contact

CALL: 859-957-2408

Unless otherwise noted

Permit process/submittal questions:
Sheila Spradling

Commercial plan review and inspection questions:
Tim Tholemeier

Residential plan review and inspections questions:
Danny Arlinghaus

Zoning or code enforcement questions:
Rob Himes 859-331-8980

Subdivision regulations questions:
Michelle Allender 859-957-2405

Complaints, concerns, suggestions or other time sensitive issues:
Gary Forsyth II