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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Norfolk
Building permits required for new construction, additions, remodels, accessory structures over 256 sq ft, and various other work categories
- Exempt Zoning certificates pathway for accessory structures 256 sq ft or less (no building permit required)
- Completed building permit or zoning certificate application form
- 2 copies of floor plans drawn to scale
- Copy of land survey (2 copies for zoning certificates)
- Elevation Certificate (if property in flood zone)
- Description of proposed work
- Building code
- Nebraska State Building Code based on 2018 International Building Code (IBC) and 2018 International Residential Code (IRC); Nebraska Radon Resistant New Construction (RRNC) Act applies to all new residential construction
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must register with Nebraska Department of Labor; Norfolk requires contractor to be listed as permit applicant; all specialty trade licenses required by state law
Application process
Typical processing: Approximately 10 business days for residential new construction plan review; additions and renovations may be reviewed immediately over the counter
- 01 Determine whether project requires building permit or only zoning certificate (256 sq ft threshold for accessory structures)
- 02 Complete building permit or zoning certificate application form (available online or at Building Services counter)
- 03 Submit 2 copies of floor plans drawn to scale
- 04 Submit copy of land survey (for zoning certificates: 2 copies of survey)
- 05 If property in flood zone, submit Elevation Certificate
- 06 Pay applicable fees
- 07 Residential plan review: approximately 10 business days for new construction; additions/renovations may receive over-the-counter review
- 08 For commercial projects: submit concurrently to Norfolk Building Services and Nebraska State Fire Marshal Plans Division
- 09 Permit issued after plan review approval
- 10 Schedule inspections at key construction phases
- 11 Certificate of Occupancy issued automatically 48 hours after approved final inspection (for new construction and change-of-use)
Typical processing time: Approximately 10 business days for residential new construction plan review; additions and renovations may be reviewed immediately over the counter
Fee schedule
Effective July 1, 2021
Fees paid at time of permit application
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Through online portal (PermitCity) (phone)
- By phone: 402-844-2060 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday–Friday 8:00 AM–4:30 PM
Typical sequence: Standard residential inspection sequence: (1) Footing/Foundation before backfilling; (2) Rough-in (framing, plumbing, electrical, mechanical) before drywall/sheathing; (3) Final after all construction complete; (4) Certificate of Occupancy issued 48 hours after approved final (for new construction and change-of-use)
Frequently asked
Common questions about Norfolk permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Norfolk, NE? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Norfolk, NE? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Norfolk, NE? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Norfolk, NE? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Norfolk, NE? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Norfolk, NE? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Norfolk — Building Services Division before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.