Building & Zoning

What is a Building Permit? 

A building permit is official approval from local authorities to proceed with a construction project, ensuring it complies with safety and zoning laws.

   Why building-construction-worker-siteDo You Need a Building Permit?

Permits protect the public by ensuring structures are safe and meet minimum standards.
They help verify that materials are suitable and that the project adheres to local codes.


Projects That Require a Permit:

  • New Homes & Commercial Buildings 
  • Decks, Porches, Garages, Sheds, Pole Buildings
  • Additions & Renovations (with structural changes)
  • Pools (above or below ground, 36” or more)
  • Fences & Retaining Walls (over 4 feet)
  • Temporary Buildings

Projects That Don’t Require a Permit:

  • Non-structural changes
  • Sidewalks/driveways under 30 inches
  • Retaining walls under 4 feet
  • Pools under 24 inches
  • Painting, wallpapering, shingling, residing
  • Playground Equipment
The Permit Process:

Construction Worker

  1. Initial Contact: Speak with the building official or zoning administrator before starting your project. They’ll guide you on whether a permit is needed and provide the application.

  2. Submit Application: Fill out the building permit application with details on your project. Attach plans or drawings if necessary. (Please scroll down to read important information below, county zoning application needed additionally if outside Nebraska City limits.)

  3. Application Review: The building inspector reviews your application to ensure it meets all codes and regulations. They’ll notify you of any changes needed.

  4. Pay Permit Fee: After approval, pay the permit fee, which includes a deposit for code compliance and inspections. The permit job card will outline required inspections and must be posted at the construction site.

  5. Inspections: Request inspections with 24–48 hours’ notice. If violations are found, corrections must be made before work continues. Follow-up inspections may be necessary.

  6. Completion: After the final inspection, the inspector issues a Certificate of Occupancy or Completion, confirming the project meets all codes. Your deposit refund will be processed after approval by the City Council.

Why Codes Matter:

Building codes ensure the safety, health, and welfare of the public by setting standards for construction.
Nebraska City follows the 2018 International Building Code and Residential Code.

Important Information:


 -Outside Nebraska City limits? Any building application property OUTSIDE Nebraska City 2-mile
extraterritorial jurisdiction MUST fill out the County Zoning Permit Application in ADDITION to the
Building Permit Application. This means anywhere in Otoe County outside of Nebraska City.

-Need an address? Properties out in the County (OUTSIDE Nebraska City 2-mile extraterritorial
jurisdiction) can request a new address by filling out the Driveway Permit & 911 Address Request form.
This form can be uploaded and submitted with your online building application.

-New home build? Please submit house plans and the REScheck Energy Code documents.
The REScheck can be completed here.