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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Milford
It is unlawful to commence excavation for construction of any building, or any accessory building, or to commence moving or altering any building (including accessory buildings), until the Building Inspector has issued a building permit. This requirement applies within city limits and the one-mile ETJ.
- Exempt Standard Nebraska agricultural building exemption applies for farm buildings on qualifying parcels in the ETJ rural fringe area
Note: Fire sprinkler exemption: The city has omitted IRC/IBC Section R313 (residential fire sprinkler mandate) by Ordinance No. 918. Single-family and two-family residential construction does not require automatic fire sprinklers under Milford's adopted code.
- Dimensioned sketch or scale plan showing the shape, size, height, and location of all buildings to be erected, altered, or moved
- Existing buildings on the lot
- Existing and intended use of all such buildings
- Any additional information requested by the Building Inspector to confirm ordinance compliance
- Building code
- International Building Code (IBC) 2012 Edition. Section R313 (Residential Fire Sprinkler Mandate) has been omitted by Ordinance No. 918.
- Permit validity
- A building or zoning permit becomes void 12 months from the date of issuance unless substantial progress has been made.
- Contractor requirements
- All contractors must be registered under the Nebraska Contractor Registration Act with the Nebraska Department of Labor. Registration fee: $25/year. Contractors must provide proof of workers' compensation insurance or a verified statement of exemption.
Application process
Typical processing: Not published. Contact 402-761-3247 for current timeline.
- 01 Determine whether the property is within Milford city limits or the one-mile ETJ.
- 02 Contact the City Clerk at 402-761-3247 or cityofmilford@milfordne.gov to discuss the project and permit requirements.
- 03 For new businesses or commercial development, contact the Planning and Economic Development function early to determine zoning and building code requirements. A Certificate of Use is required before utilities are placed in a new business's name.
- 04 Obtain the building permit application form from the City Clerk's office.
- 05 Complete the application and submit with required plans and fees to the City Clerk.
- 06 Await plan review. The City Clerk or designated official reviews for zoning compliance and code conformance under the 2012 IBC.
- 07 Upon approval, receive permit and begin construction.
- 08 Schedule required inspections at construction milestones (contact city for inspection contact and scheduling process).
- 09 Receive final inspection approval and Certificate of Occupancy upon completion.
Typical processing time: Not published. Contact 402-761-3247 for current timeline.
Fee schedule
Milford building permit fees
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Contact the City Clerk at 402-761-3247 for inspection scheduling protocol (phone)
Typical sequence: Certificate of Occupancy process: Within three days after notification that a building or premises is ready for occupancy, it is the Building Inspector's duty to make a final inspection and issue a Certificate of Occupancy if the building and proposed use conform to the zoning ordinance. If certification is refused, the refusal must be stated in writing with cause.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Milford permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Milford, NE? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Milford, NE? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Milford, NE? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Milford, NE? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Milford, NE? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Milford, NE? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Milford -- City Clerk / Planning and Zoning before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.