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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Lexington
A building permit is required for all new construction, additions, alterations involving structural elements, changes in occupancy, demolition, installation or replacement of electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems, and for fences, signs, mobile home placement, and driveways.
Note: Contact the Lexington Building and Planning Department at (308) 324-2341 to confirm whether your specific project requires a permit.
- Completed permit application
- Site plan
- Foundation plan
- Floor plan
- Elevation drawings
- Electrical plan
- Mechanical plan
- Building code
- 2015 International Building Code (IBC) and 2015 International Residential Code (IRC) for residential construction. 2009 International Property Maintenance Code. Lexington's adoption of the 2015 editions means some provisions updated in the 2018 editions are not yet enforced locally.
- Permit validity
- Permits expire if work has not commenced within 180 days of issuance or if work is suspended or abandoned for 180 consecutive days.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders are permitted to pull permits for construction on their own primary residence. Confirm current owner-builder declaration requirements with the building department.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must be registered with the Nebraska Department of Labor. Electricians and plumbers must hold appropriate state licenses (Nebraska State Electrical Division; Nebraska State Plumbing Board). Lexington does not maintain a separate local contractor registration program beyond state requirements.
Source: City of Lexington Building and Planning Department ↗
Application process
Typical processing: Routine residential permits (accessory structures, additions, roofing, mechanical) are typically issued over the counter or within a few days. New home and commercial construction involves plan review, typically one to two weeks. Complex commercial projects or those requiring State Fire Marshal review may take longer.
- 01 Determine the permit type required (new residential, commercial, accessory structure, fence, mechanical, sign, demolition, etc.).
- 02 Download the applicable application form from https://cityoflex.com/building-permits-rezoning-forms/ or obtain a paper copy in person at 406 E. 7th Street.
- 03 Complete the application with project details, legal description, owner and contractor information, and estimated project valuation.
- 04 Prepare supporting documents: site plan showing lot dimensions, setbacks, and proposed structure location; construction plans or drawings as applicable to project complexity (commercial and new homes require plans; minor work may require only the application).
- 05 Submit the completed application package in person at the City Service Building.
- 06 Pay permit fees at time of application based on the fee schedule posted on the city website.
- 07 The building official or designee reviews the application for code compliance and zoning conformance.
- 08 Permit is issued upon approval. Larger projects typically complete plan review within one to two weeks.
- 09 Post the permit card conspicuously at the job site during construction.
- 10 Schedule required inspections by contacting the building department during construction.
- 11 Request final inspection upon project completion. A certificate of occupancy is issued after satisfactory final inspection.
Typical processing time: Routine residential permits (accessory structures, additions, roofing, mechanical) are typically issued over the counter or within a few days. New home and commercial construction involves plan review, typically one to two weeks. Complex commercial projects or those requiring State Fire Marshal review may take longer.
Source: City of Lexington Building and Planning Department ↗
Fee schedule
Lexington building permit fees
Fees are paid in person at the City Service Building.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (308) 324-2341 (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- Contact the building department during regular business hours to schedule inspections.
- Inspection hours
- Monday–Friday during city business hours. Confirm current hours with the city.
Typical sequence: Typical sequence for new residential construction: foundation/footing inspection before concrete pour; underground utilities inspection before backfill; rough framing inspection after framing and before insulation or drywall; rough electrical, plumbing, and mechanical inspections coordinated with framing; insulation inspection if required; final inspection upon completion of all work.
Source: City of Lexington Building and Planning Department ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Lexington permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Lexington, NE? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Lexington, NE? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Lexington, NE? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Lexington, NE? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Lexington, NE? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Lexington Building and Planning Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.