Unincorporated Douglas County

Required for any new structure, addition, alteration, or regulated construction activity in unincorporated Douglas County. Permits authorize specified activity and allow Building Official to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Note: Not published as a standalone list from sources accessible during research. Exemptions follow adopted 2021 IBC provisions. Under IBC Chapter 1, typical exemptions include certain small accessory structures, minor repairs, and finish work. Confirm specific exemptions with Douglas County Permits at (402) 444-7189.

Building code

2021 International Building Code (IBC) with local amendments. Full current building codes listed at https://www.dceservices.org/mobile-permits/current-building-codes.

Permit validity

Permit void if: (1) work not commenced within 180 days of issuance; (2) work not complete within 2 years of issuance; or (3) work abandoned for six months at any time. Six-month extensions available by emailing dcpermits@douglascounty-ne.gov.

Owner-builder

Not specifically published for unincorporated county. Contact (402) 444-7189.

Contractor requirements

Douglas County Contractor Registration Program. Any contractor applying for permits must be registered with the county program. Contact (402) 444-7189 for registration details.

1. 01
   Use https://apps.dcgis.org/findpermits/ to confirm the property falls within unincorporated Douglas County jurisdiction.
2. 02
   Register or log in to SmartGov portal at https://co-douglas-ne.smartgovcommunity.com/.
3. 03
   Complete building permit application online, including project description, site information, and contractor details.
4. 04
   Upload plans: drawn to scale, showing actual shape and dimensions of the lot, proposed structure location, distances from lot lines, nature and character of work, materials to be used, and other required details.
5. 05
   If project is in a floodplain, also complete and upload floodplain development permit form within the SmartGov application.
6. 06
   Submit application. Building Inspector reviews and issues written permit or denial within 15 days of acceptance of completed application.
7. 07
   Pay required fees through the portal.
8. 08
   Permit issued; post on job site and ensure it is accessible to inspectors.
9. 09
   Sole responsibility of property owner and/or permit holder to verify location of all utilities and easements (water, sewer, well, septic, electric, phone, cable, fiber optic, gas) prior to excavation or construction.
10. 10
    Schedule required inspections through the portal or by calling (402) 444-7189.
11. 11
    Pass all required inspections.
12. 12
    Final approval issued upon substantial completion.

Typical processing time: Building Inspector shall issue permit or denial within 15 days of acceptance of application.

Source: Douglas County Environmental Services -- Permits and Inspections Division ↗

• SmartGov portal (online)
• (402) 444-7189 (phone)

Inspection hours

Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM

Typical sequence: Standard IBC sequence -- foundation, framing, rough-in inspections (electrical, plumbing, mechanical), insulation, final. Specific inspection checklists available through SmartGov portal or by contacting (402) 444-7189.