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Are Shipping Container Homes Legal in Kentucky? Tips, Facts & FAQ
Ed Malaker
Last updated:
A shipping container is a great way to reduce the cost of a new home. It is also better for the environment and less expensive to maintain than a traditional home, but many people aren’t sure if it’s legal in their state. Fortunately, container homes are legal in Kentucky, but keep reading as we look into the steps that you need to take before you begin building.
What Is a Container Home?
Container homes are typically 8 feet wide and 9.5 feet tall and constructed from the same basic materials as a shipping container, which is how they get their name. Their length can range from 9.5 feet to 40 feet or more. Manufacturers can build them to follow any building codes, and you can request the number of bedrooms and many other amenities to create the home of your dreams.
Photo Credit By: Lucas de Lara, Pexels
Why Should I Purchase a Shipping Container Home?
Shipping container homes usually only cost about a fraction of the price of a traditional home, with most costing $10,000–$45,000, depending on the amenities that you choose. In addition, they reduce your carbon footprint because manufacturers construct them from recycled shipping containers. These small shipping containers are easier to heat and cool, so they reduce your energy costs. They can also be built fast so you can move in quickly.
Are Shipping Container Homes Legal in Kentucky?
Yes, you can build a shipping container home in Kentucky, and several in-state manufacturers can help, including Foxworth Architecture and Blitz Builders. When looking for help with your house, choose a licensed and insured builder who knows and follows the building codes for Kentucky. The builder should have plenty of references and provide a warranty on their work.
Will I Need a Permit to Build?
Yes, you will need a permit to start building, but it’s easy to obtain, and your contractor should be able to help you through the process. Getting a permit will require you to submit a plan to the local officials for approval, along with a small fee. Once the officials review the project and see that it follows the local building codes, they will issue a permit. If there are any problems, they will return it, and you will need to resubmit it when you adjust it.
Tips for Building a Container Home
Take your time to look at all the available options. The limited space in these homes means you must carefully consider the amenities that you require to be comfortable and happy.
Consider the type of foundation that your container home will use. Temporary foundations are easy and inexpensive, but they might enable your home to move out of place. Semi-permanent foundation can keep the container in place while remaining removable, and the permanent foundation is the most durable and expensive option, ideal for permanent homesteads.
Despite being little more than recycled shipping containers, container homes can be expensive because it require specialized labor to turn them into homes. Many companies build these homes in a factory instead of on-site, which can increase costs. Transporting the building to your location can also be expensive.
Ed Malaker is an experienced writer who has brought his knowledge to a wide range of blogs, including home improvement, guitars, computer programming, tools, fitness, and pets. If you don't catch him writing, you can usually find Ed working in the garden or taking on DIY projects around the house. Ed’s also a talented musician, spending time composing music for independent films or helping people fix their guitars.
Ed Malaker
