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HomePermits & ZoningNebraska
Nebraska (NE) Permit Guide

Building a Steel Structure in Nebraska: Permits, Zoning & What You Need to Know

Nebraska delegates building code adoption to local jurisdictions. Many rural counties have minimal code enforcement. The state is very build-friendly for steel buildings, and agricultural exemptions are widely available.

Permit Difficulty
Easy
Avg Permit Cost
$150 – $2,000
Typical Timeline
1–3 weeks
Barndominium-Friendly
Yes - Barndo-Friendly

Barndominiums are widely accepted across most counties.

State Building Code Overview

Nebraska has no mandatory statewide building code. Lincoln, Omaha, and other cities adopt codes locally. Many rural counties have no building code enforcement.

Primary Code

IBC / IRC (locally adopted)

Code Version

Varies by jurisdiction

Adoption Level

Local Only

Statewide Enforcement

No

Permit Requirements

Rural counties often have very streamlined or nonexistent permitting processes.

Residential

Required

Commercial

Required

Agricultural

Not Required

Size threshold: structures under 200 sq ft may be exempt.

Required Documents

  • Building plans
  • Site plan

Exemptions & Exceptions

Agricultural Exemption
Available

Agricultural buildings are generally exempt from permits in most Nebraska jurisdictions.

Size Exemption
Available

Small structures typically exempt where codes exist.

Other Exemptions

  • •Many rural counties have no building department

Environmental & Structural Loads

High wind exposure on the open plains. Tornado risk statewide. Moderate to heavy snow loads.

Wind Load

105–130 mph

high zone

Snow Load

20–40 psf

Seismic

A–B

Category

Flood

FEMA Regulated

Energy Code

Energy Code

IECC (locally adopted)

Version

Varies

No statewide energy code mandate.

Contractor Licensing

No State License Required

License Type

No state license required

Nebraska does not require a state contractor license. Some municipalities require local registration.

Typical Setback Requirements

Front

25–30 ft

Side

5–10 ft

Rear

15–20 ft

Set by local zoning where applicable.

Foundation Requirements

Engineered Foundation Required

Common Foundation Types

Slab-on-gradeFull basementPier and beam

Frost depth 36-42 inches. Basements common.

Building Type Considerations

Shops & Workshops

Very popular. Minimal permitting in rural areas.

Barns

Agricultural exemptions widely available.

Barndominiums

Well-accepted in rural areas. Growing popularity.

Garages & Storage

Minimal requirements in rural areas.

Commercial

Full code compliance in cities.

HOA & Deed Restrictions

HOAs uncommon outside Omaha and Lincoln suburbs.

Flood Zone Considerations

FEMA Flood Regulations Apply

Flood zones along the Platte and Missouri rivers.

Official Sources & Resources

Verify the information above directly from these official sources. Regulations change — always confirm with your local building department before starting construction.

NE State Fire Marshal — Building CodesBuilding code and fire code administration
NE Dept. of Labor — Contractor RegistrationContractor registration
Nebraska — ICCICC code adoption details for Nebraska

In This Guide

In This Guide

State Building Code OverviewPermit RequirementsExemptions & ExceptionsEnvironmental & Structural LoadsEnergy CodeContractor LicensingTypical Setback RequirementsFoundation RequirementsBuilding Type ConsiderationsHOA & Deed RestrictionsFlood Zone ConsiderationsOfficial Sources & Resources

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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Building codes, permit requirements, and zoning regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local building department, planning office, or a licensed professional before starting construction. Homestead Steel Structures & Design is not a legal authority on building codes or zoning regulations. Last updated February 2026.

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