Structured Cabling Permit Requirements in Owensboro, Kentucky

Installing structured cabling and network infrastructure in Owensboro benefits from Kentucky's exemptions for low-voltage telecommunications work. The Owensboro Metropolitan Planning Commission (OMPC) handles permits for both Owensboro and Daviess County, with a specific low voltage permit form available. Here's what contractors need to know.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Usually no for low-voltage data cabling alone. Owensboro generally does not require building permits for stand-alone structured cabling installations (Cat5e, Cat6, fiber optic). Kentucky exempts low-voltage telecommunications work from electrical licensing requirements. However, OMPC offers a Low Voltage-Form 304, and permits may apply when cabling is part of larger construction projects.

When Are Permits Required for Structured Cabling?

The OMPC Building & Electrical Division may require permits when:

• Structured cabling is part of new construction or tenant buildout
• Work requires electrical connections over 50 volts
• Cable pathways penetrate fire-rated assemblies
• Installation is included in a building permit scope
• Major commercial renovation includes data infrastructure

Low Voltage Permit (Form 304)

OMPC provides Electrical Permits/Low Voltage-Form 304. Check with OMPC whether your installation requires this permit.

Generally Exempt from Permits

• Stand-alone low-voltage data cabling (Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a)
• Fiber optic cable installation
• Network equipment and rack installation
• Moves, adds, and changes to existing cabling
• Residential network wiring

What Licensing Does Kentucky Require?

State Level: Telecommunications Exemption

Under KRS § 227A.030, workers installing low-voltage telecommunications systems are exempt from electrician licensing. This covers:

• Data cabling (Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, Cat8)
• Voice cabling and telephone systems
• Fiber optic installations
• Network infrastructure

Low Voltage Contractor License

Through Kentucky DHBC:

• One year Division-approved experience
• Pass required examination
• Education credit available (up to 6 months)

For comprehensive state requirements, see our Kentucky Low Voltage License Guide.

How Do You Apply for Permits When Required?

Submit through OMPC Building & Electrical Division:

1. Determine permit type: Building, electrical, or low voltage (Form 304)
2. Obtain forms: Available at OMPC office or website
3. Submit application: With required documentation
4. Pay fees: Based on project scope
5. Schedule inspections: For fire-stopping or electrical connections

Contact Information:

• Building/Electrical Permits: (270) 687-8665
• Address: 200 E. 3rd St., Owensboro, KY 42303
• Hours: 8 AM - 4:30 PM

What Are Typical Fees and Timelines?

Service	Fee	Timeline
Low Voltage Permit (Form 304)	Contact OMPC	3-7 business days
Building Permit (tenant buildout)	Based on valuation	7-14 business days
Electrical Permit (when required)	Based on scope	5-10 business days

Penalties

$500 minimum additional fee for starting work before obtaining required permits.

What's the Difference Between Residential and Commercial Projects?

Residential Structured Cabling

Home network installations in Owensboro typically:

• Require no permit for low-voltage data cabling
• Follow NEC Article 725 (Class 2/3) and Article 800 (communications)
• Need proper cable ratings for in-wall installation (CM, CMR, CMP)
• Must maintain separation from electrical wiring per code

Commercial Structured Cabling

Business installations require:

• Compliance with TIA/EIA-568 standards
• Plenum-rated cable (CMP) in air-handling spaces
• Fire-stopping at rated penetrations
• Labeling and documentation per building requirements
• Coordination with GC on larger projects

Daviess County (Outside City)

OMPC covers both Owensboro AND Daviess County:

• Same permitting requirements apply
• Same contact information
• Same forms and processes

Fire-Stopping and Code Compliance

Even without permits, structured cabling must comply with codes:

• Fire-stopping: All penetrations through fire-rated assemblies must be properly sealed
• Plenum ratings: CMP cable required in air-handling spaces
• Riser ratings: CMR cable for vertical runs between floors
• Separation: Maintain proper distance from power conductors per NEC
• Support: Use proper J-hooks, cable trays, and support methods

Pro Tips for Owensboro Structured Cabling Contractors

• Check Form 304: OMPC has a specific low voltage permit form—verify if it applies
• Kentucky exemption helps: KRS 227A.030 exempts low-voltage telecom from electrical licensing
• $500 penalty is real: Don't skip required permits
• OMPC = city + county: One agency handles both Owensboro and Daviess County
• Fire-stopping matters: Even permit-exempt work must maintain fire barrier integrity
• Document your work: Commercial clients expect as-built drawings and test results

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Permit Guides for Owensboro

• Security Camera Permits in Owensboro
• Fire Alarm Permits in Owensboro
• Access Control Permits in Owensboro

Last updated: January 2025. Verify current requirements with OMPC Building & Electrical Division before bidding projects.