For what kind of projects in Nebraska are building permits required?

Building permits in Nebraska are required for constructing things like new buildings, adding on to or expanding existing buildings, and specialized work such as electrical or plumbing. Detached structures such as fences and sheds may also require a building permit. However, building permits are usually issued by the local municipality in Nebraska where the property is found and not all towns require building permits for construction projects. In some parts of Nebraska, local towns may not issue permits but still require that you obtain a building permit from the county before construction can begin. In cities that do issue building permits, regulations vary throughout the state of Nebraska for when such permits are required. Therefore whether you will need a permit for your project depends on the type of project you are planning to undertake and where you are located.

CLICK THE LINKS TO YOUR CITY BELOW TO APPLY FOR A BUILDING PERMIT Some cities have a general building permit application, whereas others have separate permit applications for project type or for the different phases of construction. Not all cities have forms on their site and might only list a contact and phone number.

Lincoln

Omaha

Are there other kinds of permits that I will need for my project in Nebraska?

Depending on the type of work you plan to do you may need to get additional permits in Nebraska besides just a basic building permit. For example, electrical work will normally require a special electrical permit and plumbing work will require a plumbing permit. You may also need a demolition permit to knock down an existing structure or a mechanical permit to install a heating system. Because different cities in Nebraska require different permits, you should always check with your local city government to see what is required. In addition to building permits, you may need to get a development permit from the state of Nebraska. This is required when your proposed construction takes place within a floodplain. Certain criteria must be met to comply with the National Flood Insurance Program. You can check with the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources to find out if your property is located within a floodplain and what additional requirements you must meet before you can start construction. If a development permit is required, you must receive it from the state before you can get your local building permit.

In Nebraska, is a building permit the same as a zoning certificate?

No, zoning is a separate process from building permits in Nebraska, but they are related. Before you file your building permit application you must make sure that the property is properly zoned for your intended use. When the use of the structure does not change, for example when you are adding an extension on to your house but the building is still residential, this process is straightforward. But when the proposed use of the structure is changed, especially with commercial property, you will need to file a zoning application prior to filing your building permit application. If the building is not properly zoned, this could affect your ability to ultimately use it in the way you intend.  

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