Kentucky Regulations for Agricultural Worker Housing

Renters living in Kentucky agricultural worker housing have unique rights and protections. If you are a tenant in employer-provided or group agricultural housing, it’s essential to know how state and federal laws keep you safe, provide standards for your home, and outline your complaint and maintenance options as a renter.

What Is Agricultural Worker Housing in Kentucky?

Agricultural worker housing typically means group housing or employer-provided residences for seasonal or migrant farmworkers. These homes are governed by both Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) Chapter 219 – Agricultural Labor Camps and, in some cases, federal standards under the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act (MSPA).

Basic Housing Standards for Agricultural Workers

Kentucky requires agricultural labor camps and group housing to meet specific health, safety, and sanitation requirements. These regulations protect tenants by ensuring:

• Access to safe, structurally sound housing
• Proper sanitation (clean water, toilets, and garbage disposal)
• Safe sleeping quarters (bed spacing, lighting, and ventilation)
• Protection from overcrowding and fires

The Kentucky Department for Public Health regularly inspects these facilities. As a renter, you have the right to report unsafe or unhealthy conditions.

Who Enforces Housing Standards?

If you’re living in employer-provided agricultural housing, the Kentucky Department for Public Health – Environmental Management Branch oversees licensing, inspections, and complaints under KRS 219. Your city or county health department may also conduct routine or requested inspections.

Your Rights as an Agricultural Worker Tenant in Kentucky

• The right to a healthy and safe environment
• Protection from retaliation for reporting violations
• Access to information about your housing conditions or testing results
• The right to file a formal complaint without fear of losing your housing

Common Issues in Agricultural Worker Housing

Frequent concerns include:

• Overcrowding or lack of privacy
• Poor ventilation or dangerous heating
• Unsafe drinking water or inadequate bathrooms
• Pest infestations

You can take action if you experience any of these conditions. If possible, ask neighbors if they’re facing similar issues, as this can strengthen your complaint.

Official Forms for Renters and When to Use Them

• Kentucky Department for Public Health Complaint Form: Use this form to report unsanitary or unsafe conditions in agricultural worker housing. For example, if your camp lacks sufficient toilets or clean water, submit a complaint. Access the official complaint form here.
• Kentucky Migrant Labor Camp Application (Form DFS-219): While this form is for camp operators, it’s helpful to know your employer must submit it to provide compliant housing. You can review or request a copy to verify camp status. See the DFS-219 form requirements.

These forms protect your right to safe living conditions. If you file a complaint, state inspectors will contact you about follow-up steps.

What Happens After You File a Complaint?

Your local or state health officer must investigate filed complaints within a reasonable time. Inspectors may visit the living quarters and order fixes if violations are found.

If unsafe conditions are not corrected, the health department can suspend or revoke the camp’s operating license, guaranteeing long-term solutions for renters.

If You Face Eviction or Retaliation

If you are threatened with eviction or job loss for raising concerns, you are protected by Kentucky and federal law. Keep written records of all communications, and contact the agencies below for guidance.

Kentucky's Relevant Legislation and Tribunal

• KRS Chapter 219 – Agricultural Labor Camps sets the legal standards for your housing.
• Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act (MSPA) offers additional rights if you work seasonally or migrate for farm work.
• The Kentucky Department for Public Health (not a court, but the primary enforcement body)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my employer remove me from agricultural worker housing without notice?
   Generally, employers must follow set rules before evicting anyone from approved camps. Sudden eviction due to a complaint may be illegal under state or federal law.
2. What should I do if my employer ignores repairs?
   Submit a complaint to the Kentucky Department for Public Health using their official form. Keep copies and records for your protection.
3. Is my housing supposed to be inspected regularly?
   Yes, camps and housing are required to pass initial and ongoing inspections for licensing. Renters have the right to request additional inspections when problems arise.
4. Can I report unsafe housing conditions even if I’m not a U.S. citizen?
   Yes. All renters, regardless of immigration status, are protected and can make complaints without fear of legal retaliation.
5. Who will investigate my complaint about housing violations?
   Your local or state health department will assign an inspector to visit your residence and ensure the rules are followed.

Key Takeaways for Kentucky Agricultural Worker Renters

• Kentucky law protects your right to safe, sanitary farm worker housing
• File an official complaint if you face unsafe or unsanitary conditions
• Your employer cannot retaliate against you for standing up for your rights

Knowing these protections helps you advocate for safe living conditions and seek enforcement if problems arise.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky Department for Public Health – Migrant Housing Information: Forms, complaint process, and contact info
• KRS Chapter 219 – Agricultural Labor Camps: Read the full state law
• Federal Migrant & Seasonal Worker Rights (MSPA): Learn about nationwide protections
• Your county or city health department: Check their website or contact them directly to request an inspection or get assistance

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1. Kentucky Revised Statutes Chapter 219 – Agricultural Labor Camps
2. Kentucky Department for Public Health – Migrant Housing
3. Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act (MSPA)

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