Opportunity Zones are an economic development tool promoting investment in distressed communities through legislation enacted by the Federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. Communities have been designated as Opportunity Zones by the U.S. Department of Treasury, incentivizing investments in these distressed communities to better address local needs in areas such as business growth, improvements to housing, and improvements to infrastructure.
The City of Paducah has created an effective and exciting toolbox of programs through the Planning 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:
Paducah Main Street, a 2023 Accredited Main Street AmericaTM, a 2024 Nationally Accredited Kentucky Main Street Program, and winner of the Great American Main Street Award in 2010, serves as a model for communities throughout the nation. Selected by a nationwide jury of community development experts, Paducah proves that incremental progress and persistence pay off, creating economic vitality, a unique sense of place, and a greater commitment to community by all of its residents.
Please view this beautiful 15-minute video produced in 2017 that summarizes the history and vision of the Lower Town Artist Relocation Program.
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: Fire Prevention Division
270-444-8527
BUILDING PLAN REVIEW PRIOR TO BUILDING PERMIT
Review of proposed building, electrical, HVAC, sprinkler, foundation, etc.
Contact: Fire Prevention Division
270-444-8527
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:
