Subdivision Development

Subdivision regulations cover the layout of new subdivisions and specific design standards for streets, access management, utilities, and pedestrian ways. They help protect natural, historic, and recreational areas and establish guidelines for the construction of public improvements. It is also the responsibility of the department staff to inspect these improvements. The department's primary responsibility is to ensure that subdivision regulations stay effective and up-to-date with technological and industry advancements.

Kenton County Subdivision Regulations

These regulations create the mechanisms, further define the powers and duties, and set forth the standards and requirements necessary to administer responsibilities granted to local Planning Commissions by Chapter 100 of the Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS).

Applications and Forms

Please note that all applications can be submitted using the online submission portal. This straightforward process can help you save time and effort.

Subdivision Development Analysis

Inspection Services

To maintain quality standards and ensure compliance with the Kenton County Subdivision Regulations, all new subdivision streets, sidewalks, and storm sewers require on-site inspection by our dedicated PDS staff before installation. Our staff is committed to overseeing the construction of these new assets to ensure that they meet the required standards outlined in the regulations.

We kindly request a 48-hour notice for all inspection services to facilitate this process. If you have any inquiries or wish to schedule an inspection, please contact the Infrastructure Engineering Department at 859-957-2405. We greatly appreciate your collaboration in this process, which contributes to successful outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the requirements for constructing a driveway/sidewalk?

A:
  • See Detail #20 from Standard Construction Drawings for set-up of form work.
  • Compacted DGA (Dense-graded aggregate) is recommended for fill under driveway aprons and sidewalk.
  • A contractor may only utilize a concrete mix that has been approved for use in Kenton County. Ready Mix Concrete suppliers are required to submit mix designs for approval that comply with the subdivision regulations.
  • All driveways/sidewalks are required to be inspected prior to pouring. Please contact PDS at 859-957-2405 to schedule the inspection or for further questions.

Q: Can I subdivide my property?

A:
  • Maybe, in Kenton County the general requirements are as follows:
    1. The created parcel and remainder must have frontage on a publicly maintained roadway.
    2. The created parcel and remainder must meet the lot area and dimensions required by the applicable zoning ordinance.
    3. The created parcel and remainder must meet the Kenton County Subdivision Regulations.
  • PDS Staff can assist in answering as many questions as possible, but it may take hiring a land surveyor to verify the lot area and dimensions.  The surveyor will ultimately create the subdivision of the property.
  • To find out more information regarding hiring a land surveyor please refer to this document.

Q: How do I subdivide my property?

A:
  • For minor subdivisions (not involving a new street or public improvements)  refer to the ID Plat Process document.
  • For major subdivisions (new public streets or public improvements) refer to the Final Plat Process document.

Q: Is plat approval required to consolidate parcels that I already own?

A:
  • No - As defined in KRS 100 a consolidation of property is not a subdivision and therefore is not subject to approval.
  • A consolidation deed can be prepared by an attorney with language that clearly spells out the intent of the deed such as follows:

THE PURPOSE OF THIS DEED IS TO CONSOLIDATE THE PARCELS DESCRIBED ABOVE INTO ONE CONSOLIDATED LOT FOR BUILDING DEVELOPMENT PURPOSES, SUCH THAT THE PREVIOUSLY DISTINCT AND SEPARATE PARCELS WILL BE TREATED AS ONE LOT FOR ALL PURPOSES, INCLUDING FOR ZONING AND BUILDING PURPOSES, AND MAY NOT BE HEREAFTER SUBDIVIDED NOR CONVEYED SEPARATELY WITHOUT PROPER REGULATORY APPROVAL.

Q: How long does it take to get my plat/plan reviewed?

A:
  • In general, the Subdivision Regulations allow for the following review periods:
    • ID Plat – 10 business days
    • Preliminary Plat – 15 business days
    • Grading Plan - 15 business days
    • Improvement Drawing - 15 business days
    • Final Plat – 10 business days
  • These review periods are affected by other aspects such as other jurisdictional approvals, completion of infrastructure, availability of surveyor/engineer, etc.

Q: How do I know which application I need for my subdivision?

A:
  • Please see this guide to help decide.
  • Staff at PDS is available to help you with any additional questions.

Q: Does an agricultural subdivision require KCPC plat approval?

A:
  • Staff is required to enforce the Subdivision Regulations.  
  • Subdivisions are required to conform to those regulations. 

It is not staff’s position to determine whether a property meets the requirements of being “land for agricultural use”.  KRS 100.11 defines Agricultural Use. If an interpretation is made that the property is agricultural, and an attorney drafts a deed in accordance, then it could be recorded without requiring KCPC approval.