The City of Paducah has created an effective and exciting toolbox of programs through the Community Development Department to encourage development, beautification, rehabilitation, and stabilization of the Historic Downtown Commercial District. Our goal is to encourage vibrant streets, increased residential density, and thriving businesses. The programs are as follows:
Below are the Comprehensive Plan and future land use maps jointly developed by McCracken County and the City of Paducah and adopted by both government entities in 2025. This plan will guide area development, redevelopment, and enhancement efforts over the next 10 to 20 years.
BUILDING PERMIT & SIGN PERMIT
Contact: Building Division of Community Development Department
270-444-8690
BUILDING PLAN REVIEW PRIOR TO BUILDING PERMIT
Review of proposed building, electrical, HVAC, sprinkler, foundation, etc.
Contact: Building Division of Community Development Department
270-444-8690
BUSINESS LICENSE
Business License Requirements
Contact: Finance Department
270-444-8513
CLEARING - SITE BURNING
The City of Paducah Online Services Portal is a 24-hour permitting and service request system. An account is required for permit and plan applications. Use the Online Services Portal to
The Board of Adjustment (BOA) is a quasi-judicial board established by Paducah Code of Ordinances Section 126-173 in accordance with KRS 100.217. This five-member citizen board appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Commission. The Board of Adjustment has numerous duties including but not limited to the following:
The City of Paducah Planning Commission is established by Paducah Code of Ordinances Section 82-31 through 82-35 pursuant to KRS 100.133. It is a seven-member citizen board appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Commission. The Planning Commission has numerous duties including, but not limited to the following:
All development and redevelopment projects in the City require an approved site plan before any permits for development can be issued. It is highly encouraged that a Kick-Start Meeting be scheduled prior to the preparation and submittal of a formal site plan to the City. A Kick-Start Meeting provides an opportunity for property owners/developers and key City staff members from various departments to discuss the nature of the project and address any potential preliminary questions or concerns.
Zoning regulates the use and development of land. It is designed to protect property values by preventing the location of incompatible uses in close proximity to each other. The Community Development Department develops and administrates the Zoning Code which involves the development of programs, plans, and policies for the creation of a better community.
