What counts as a detached garage vs a workshop
A detached garage is primarily for vehicle storage. A workshop is a workspace, often with power, lighting, HVAC, and specialized finishes. You can have either, both combined, or a garage with a workshop bay. The cost difference is mostly in the finishes, electrical service, and HVAC.
Cost in Louisville 2026
Basic 2-car detached garage (24x24, unfinished interior, no HVAC): $35K-$55K. Mid-range 2-car garage with finished interior, basic electric, no HVAC: $55K-$85K. 2-car garage + workshop bay (24x36, 200-amp service, HVAC, finished): $85K-$130K. 3-car garage with loft and bathroom (36x28): $120K-$180K. Pole-barn style workshop (40x60, 14 ft ceilings, 200-amp, partially finished): $80K-$150K.
The 5 decisions that drive price
1. Foundation. Slab-on-grade is cheapest. Crawl space adds $5K-$10K. Full basement adds $15K-$30K but gives you a root cellar or storm shelter. 2. Framing. Stick-built (2x6 walls, R-19 insulation) is the standard. Pole barn is faster and cheaper but less insulated. 3. Electrical service. 100 amp is fine for a basic garage. 200 amp is what you need for a workshop with welders or large tools. Add $5K-$15K for the service upgrade. 4. HVAC. None for a basic garage. Mini-split for a workshop ($3K-$6K). Full ducted system if you want it match-conditioned ($8K-$15K). 5. Finishes. Unfinished interior (just studs and sheathing) vs. drywall, paint, flooring, trim.
Do you need a permit
Yes. Louisville Metro requires a building permit for any detached structure over 120 sq ft. You also need: (1) site plan showing setbacks from property lines, (2) construction drawings, (3) electrical permit, (4) setback compliance check (typically 5 feet from side and rear property lines, 25 feet from street).
What about Indiana
Clark and Floyd counties have similar requirements. Indiana is generally more lenient on accessory structures but still requires permits over 200 sq ft.
How long does it take
A 24x24 detached garage: 6-10 weeks from permit to completion. A 24x36 garage + workshop: 8-14 weeks. A 40x60 pole barn: 4-8 weeks. The schedule depends on weather, site work, and lead times on materials.
How we approach detached garages
We do the foundation, framing, roofing, siding, electrical, and any interior finish. We pull all permits. We coordinate concrete, plumbing (if you want a bathroom or utility sink), and any specialty trades. We will give you a fixed price with a written allowance for every selection.