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Kentucky renewal guide

Fire Protection Sprinkler Contractor

If this license is up for renewal, this page gives you the fee, the timeline, and the items that usually hold the filing up.

Start here

What matters before you file.

Check the fee, the renewal window, and the documents or insurance records that can slow approval down.

Renewal period

Every 12 months

Renewal fee

$250.00

Bond requirement

No

Insurance requirement

Yes — General Liability, Workers' Compensation

Continuing education

6 hours

Before you renew

Get the filing straight.

  1. 1

    Finish the CE first

    Complete the 6 required hours before you start the renewal.

  2. 2

    Check the insurance certificates

    Make sure the required policies are current and match what the board or agency expects before you file.

  3. 3

    File with the board

    File through Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC) and pay the $250.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.

    Renew online
  4. 4

    Leave room for processing

    Typical processing time is 30 days, so do not wait until the last minute.

Detailed notes

The fine print is here.

Kentucky Fire Protection Sprinkler Contractor License


The Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC) issues the Fire Protection Sprinkler Contractor license under KRS 198B.595 and 815 KAR 7:080. This license authorizes the holder to design, install, and maintain fire protection sprinkler systems in Kentucky.


What This License Authorizes


A Fire Protection Sprinkler Contractor may design, install, alter, inspect, and maintain automatic fire protection sprinkler systems. The contractor must employ at least one person who holds a Certificate of Competency issued by the DHBC.


Insurance Requirements


  • General Liability Insurance: Minimum $250,000 per person and $500,000 per accident with errors and omissions coverage
  • Workers' Compensation: Required if you have employees per KRS Chapter 342

Certification Requirements


The contractor must employ a certificate of competency holder. The certificate of competency requires passing a DHBC-administered examination and demonstrating qualifying experience in fire protection sprinkler system design and installation.


Renewal Process


  • Renewal Period: Annual (expires June 30 of each year)
  • Renewal Fee: $250
  • Certificate of Competency Renewal: $125 annually
  • Continuing Education: 6 hours annually from a DHBC-approved provider per 815 KAR 2:010
  • Application Fee: $250 (initial, prorated)

Consequences of Operating Without a License


Installing fire protection sprinkler systems without a valid DHBC license violates KRS 198B. Penalties include fines and potential criminal prosecution. Unlicensed installations may be ordered corrected or removed at the violator's expense.


*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the Kentucky DHBC.*

Official links

Check the board or agency directly.

Required documents

  • Proof of Insurance
  • certificate_of_competency

Source notes

Kentucky DHBC, 815 KAR 7:080, KRS 198B.595 . Verified March 2026. https://dhbc.ky.gov

Rules move. Check Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC) again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.

Track the next renewal.

Keep Fire Protection Sprinkler Contractor dates, proof, and official links with the rest of your license work.

Free to start. No credit card required.