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1. Why do I need a building permit?

A building permit is required to ensure plans meet minimum standards for safety and health. Unsafe building conditions can lead to dangerous situations.

2. For what work do I need a building permit?

The following work requires a building permit:

• Residential accessory buildings over 120 square feet
• All new construction, including additions, enclosures, and garages
• Decks, fences, or swimming pools
• Interior remodeling or alterations involving the removal of walls or wall coverings, or adding new rooms and basement finishing
• Moving or demolition of structures
• Patio covers and carports
• Repairs when structural members are involved, or which enlarge or change location of openings
• Signs to be erected, re-erected, moved, or altered, including mobile signs

3. What type of work can I do without a building permit?

• Residential accessory buildings not exceeding 120 square feet (must meet current setback requirements and floodplain regulations)
• Installation of storm windows or roof gutters
• Painting, papering, or similar finish work
• Shingling
• Siding

4. How do I obtain a Building Permit?

1. Complete and submit an application to the Community Development Department. Applications are available at the Community Development Office located on the second floor of City Hall. There is no fee to submit a Building Permit Application.
2. Residential - Submit one (1) set of plans for review
3. Commercial - Submit two (2) sets of plans for review

*Plans must be drawn to scale, dimensioned, and of sufficient clarity to be read easily.
*Some projects are required by state law to have plans that are certified by an engineer or architect registered under the laws of the State of Nebraska

5. How long does it take to get a Building Permit?

The amount of time varies based upon the complexity of the work, but generally you can expect the following time frames:

• Residential building permits may take up to 15 working days.
• Simple add-on, or garage permits will be processed in 10 to 15 days.
• Commercial building permits for new construction and remodeling may take 15 or more working days depending on the complexity.