Bolthole Index

Washington County, Nebraska

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Washington County, Nebraska

44Index Score / 100
#56 of 93 in Nebraska

Washington County, Nebraska requires building permits for covered construction, and permits must be issued before work starts.1 County zoning applies in unincorporated areas; a city or village exercising its own zoning jurisdiction applies its own rules instead.23 County Planning & Zoning handles septic applications and inspections, but Blair, Fort Calhoun, Kennard and Herman have their own offices and policies.45

At a glance

Building permit
Required for covered construction before work starts1
Building code
County administers the adopted 2018 codes with stated changes6
Zoning
Applies in unincorporated areas outside active municipal jurisdiction23
Septic
County review and inspections plus Nebraska Title 12478
RV living
RV/M Overlay District allows up to 180 days; other parcels require confirmation94
A-1 home lots
3-acre minimum and 200-foot width; 2 acres with public water10
Owner-builder
State contractor-registration exemption does not waive permits or codes11
Manufactured home
Single-story: 900 square feet above grade, 18-foot width, permanent foundation12

Who to call

Building permits

Washington County Planning & Zoning

County building permits and inspections, planning and zoning, floodplain questions, and county septic applications and inspections

(402) 426-6872

planning@washingtoncountyne.gov

1555 Colfax Street Blair, NE 68008

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Washington County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Do you need a building permit in Washington County, Nebraska?

Yes. Washington County requires a permit for construction covered by its building-permit program.1 The permit must be issued before construction begins; starting first doubles the application fee.13 New-home applicants must bring two hard-copy plans before the application can proceed.14

Washington County administers the adopted 2018 building codes with stated changes, including omission of the residential automatic-fire-sprinkler section.6 County-administered building and related construction permits require inspections, with at least 24 hours' notice; state inspections must pass before the related county inspection is scheduled.15 The signed permit application authorizes the county inspector or an authorized representative to enter the property for inspections.16 Ask Planning & Zoning which permit types and inspection sequence fit the proposed work.4 Nebraska's contractor-registration exemption for owners working on their own property does not waive county building permits, zoning approvals or inspections.17

Who issues building permits in Washington County, Nebraska?

Washington County Planning & Zoning is the first stop for county building permits, inspections and zoning questions.4 The office is at 1555 Colfax Street in Blair and can be reached at (402) 426-6872 or planning@washingtoncountyne.gov.4

The county publishes an online process: register through the permitting portal, obtain county approval of the contractor registration and then begin the permit application.14 New homes require two hard-copy plans, while accessory buildings with interior walls require two plans measuring 24 by 36 inches for the shell and interior.14 The reviewed materials did not provide a general fee schedule; the known fee rule is that starting before permit issuance doubles the application fee.13 Electrical permitting and inspections go through the Nebraska State Electrical Division.15

This county office covers the unincorporated county; inside a city or village exercising zoning jurisdiction, the municipality's rules replace county zoning.18 We could not confirm who issues building permits inside each city or village, so ask the city office, while septic permits and county inspections for unincorporated addresses stay with county Planning & Zoning.5

Does Washington County, Nebraska have zoning?

Yes. Washington County zoning applies in unincorporated areas outside incorporated city or village limits and outside municipal zoning or extraterritorial jurisdiction.2 A city or village exercising jurisdiction applies its own rules instead, so the parcel's mailing address does not settle which office controls.3 Ask Planning & Zoning to identify the district and governing jurisdiction before relying on a proposed use.4

For a dwelling in the A-1 district, the minimum lot is 3 acres and the minimum width is 200 feet; the area may drop to 2 acres with public water.10 Residential Mixed Use development has a 50-foot perimeter setback and maximum building coverage of 60% of net developable area, with a possible additional setback from a heavily traveled road.1920 These are district-specific standards. A manufactured home in unincorporated Washington County must have at least 900 square feet of above-grade floor area if single-story, at least an 18-foot exterior width and a continuous permanent foundation, and must meet the standards for site-built single-family homes in its district.12 A general minimum size for site-built homes and an accessory-dwelling rule could not be confirmed; ask Planning & Zoning what applies to the parcel.4

How do septic permits work in Washington County?

Washington County performs county septic inspections and requires septic information in its application process, while Nebraska Title 124 governs onsite wastewater systems statewide and allows more stringent local requirements.7 County septic review applies in the unincorporated county; Blair, Fort Calhoun, Kennard and Herman have their own offices and policies, so confirm which office serves the address.5 Check local requirements separately because state construction permits or general-permit coverage apply in circumstances defined by Title 124.821

The county lists partial and final septic inspections and requires a plot plan showing the tank, laterals, wells, geothermal wells and perc-test locations.22 Title 124 also requires periodic tank inspection by a qualified pumper, engineer or registered environmental health specialist under its sludge and scum thresholds.22 A new permit or permit coverage can be triggered when an existing system fails, improperly discharges, is materially changed or encounters specified site changes.23 Only about 32.3% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so evaluate the site before fixing the homesite.24

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Washington County?

Inside an approved Washington County RV/M Overlay District, recreational-vehicle occupancy is limited to 180 consecutive days and 180 days in a calendar year.9 The overlay is for a recreational-vehicle park or marina-resort project, requires approval as a single project and has a 10.01-acre minimum lot.25 Buildings, structures and uses in that overlay must comply with county approvals before the county will issue permits or a certificate of occupancy.26

Those overlay rules do not establish a general RV-occupancy rule for every private parcel, so ask Planning & Zoning for a written parcel-specific answer.4 A specific county tiny-home occupancy rule also could not be confirmed. Tiny homes remain subject to the governing zoning jurisdiction and adopted building codes.36 A facility generating wastewater must use a Title 124-compliant onsite system or connect to wastewater works; cesspools, dry wells, leaching pits and seepage pits are prohibited.27

Building a home in Washington County: what are the steps?

  1. Confirm whether county or municipal zoning governs the parcel, then ask Planning & Zoning for the district and allowed residential use.34
  2. Verify the district's lot, setback and coverage standards before placing the home.101920
  3. Discuss the septic layout and plot plan before fixing the homesite; the county requires the tank, laterals, wells, geothermal wells and perc-test locations.22
  4. Register through the county portal, obtain approval of the contractor registration and begin the permit application.14
  5. Submit two hard-copy plans for a new home and obtain the permit before construction starts.141
  6. Arrange electrical permitting and inspections with the Nebraska State Electrical Division, and pass required state inspections before related county inspections.15
  7. Give at least 24 hours' notice for county inspections and complete every required inspection before permit expiration.15

What should you check before buying land in Washington County?

Start with jurisdiction, zoning and legal lot status. Washington County regulates covered subdivision and platting in unincorporated areas outside city or village subdivision jurisdiction; divisions whose smallest new parcel is more than 10 acres are excluded from the county definition of subdivision.28 Confirm approval history before assuming a tract is buildable. Municipal zoning may supersede county zoning where a city or village exercises jurisdiction.3

A new, relocated or altered driveway connecting to a state highway requires a Nebraska highway permit.29 A separate county driveway permit could not be confirmed, so ask Planning & Zoning and the road authority serving the parcel about access.4 Check septic suitability early because only about 32.3% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field.24 All development in a Nebraska floodplain requires a permit.30 Private-well permitting and a countywide water-connection rule could not be confirmed; ask Planning & Zoning which authority applies.4

Watch-outs

  • Starting covered construction before Washington County issues the permit doubles the permit application fee.13
  • City or village jurisdiction can replace county zoning, so confirm the governing office for the parcel rather than relying on its mailing address.3
  • A smaller tract may require a county subdivision procedure, while a division whose smallest new parcel is more than 10 acres is excluded from the county definition.28
  • Only about 32.3% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field.24
  • The RV/M Overlay District's 180-day occupancy limit does not answer RV living on every private parcel; ask Planning & Zoning for a parcel-specific answer.94

Sources

  1. washingtoncountyne.gov, quoted and re-checked
  2. Washington County Zoning Resolution No. 2005-19, quoted and re-checked
  3. Washington County Zoning Resolution No. 2005-19, quoted and re-checked
  4. Washington County Planning & Zoning (washingtoncountyne.gov)
  5. Septic Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  6. New Codes Effective August 1, 2020, quoted and re-checked
  7. Nebraska Administrative Code Title 124 - Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  8. Title 124 - Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  9. Washington County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  10. Washington County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  11. Nebraska Revised Statute 48-2104 — Registration required (Nebraska statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. Washington County, Nebraska Zoning Resolution No. 2005-19, quoted and re-checked
  13. washingtoncountyne.gov, quoted and re-checked
  14. washingtoncountyne.gov, quoted and re-checked
  15. Building Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  16. Washington County Building Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  17. Who Needs to Register | Nebraska Department of Labor, quoted and re-checked
  18. Washington County Nebraska Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  19. washingtoncountyne.gov, quoted and re-checked
  20. washingtoncountyne.gov, quoted and re-checked
  21. Title 124 - Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  22. Building Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  23. Nebraska Administrative Code Title 124 - Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  24. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  25. washingtoncountyne.gov, quoted and re-checked
  26. Washington County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  27. Nebraska Administrative Code Title 124 - Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  28. Washington County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  29. Title 410, Chapter 2 - Driveway and Approach Road Permits (Nebraska statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  30. Floodplain Management Q&A: Permits (Nebraska statewide rule), quoted and re-checked

Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Washington County has countywide zoning.

RuleWashington CountyDouglas CountyDodge CountyBurt CountySaunders CountySarpy CountyCuming County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredNot required
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsNDEECounty Health Dept.NE Dept. of WaterNE Dept. of Env. & EnergyNE Dept. of Env. & EnergyNE Dept. of Env. & EnergyNE Dept. of Env. & Energy

County locator

Washington County in Nebraska

44
County map
Washington County highlighted among the Nebraska counties · colored by Index score

How Washington County scores

Seclusion23100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency42100% ev.
Admin Boringness47100% ev.
Durability50100% ev.
Property Autonomy53100% ev.
Carry Cost55100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$406kTypical home
1.5%Property tax
$7,365Land / acre
31.9"Annual rain
17.3% of yrsSevere drought
7.6 / yr (+6.6)Mid-century 100°F days
20.9 daysMid-century dry spell
1.69" (+5.8%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.62×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$3,010Home insurance / yr
3% / yrInsurance growth
1.25%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
219,187People within 30 min
1,965,589People within 2 hr
87,632Radius comparison (15 mi)
54.2People / sq mi
3.5%Federal land
93.6%Land at 15% slope or less
32.3%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
78,253 acWorkable land screen
11.1%Wooded land
58.1 tonsBiomass / forest ac
50.4°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Washington County

Inside a city, town or township here, that government usually sets zoning and may issue its own building permits; the county’s rules above cover land outside them.

Not yet researched: Blair · Fort Calhoun · Village of Herman · Village of Kennard · Township 1 · Township 2 · Township 5 · Township 6 · Township 7 · Village of Washington

Answers from the rulebook for Washington County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Washington County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction requiring a Washington County building permit.

    • Permits must be issued before construction starts; otherwise the permit application fee is doubled.
    • New homes require two hard-copy plans before the application can proceed.
    • Accessory buildings with interior walls require two 24-by-36-inch plans for the shell and interior.
    “All permits must be issued prior to the start of construction, or the permit application fee is double.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction requiring a Washington County building permit.
      “All permits must be issued prior to the start of construction, or the permit application fee is double.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted

    County-administered building construction in Washington County.

    • The county adopted the listed codes with changes, including omission of 2018 IRC Section R313 automatic fire sprinkler system.
    • The listed codes are effective and enforced August 1, 2020.

    code edition: 2018 IBC, IRC, IEBC, IPC, IMC, IFC, IFGC, IECC (IRC Section R313 automatic fire sprinkler system omitted) · effective date: 2020-08-01

    “Washington County has adopted the following codes with changes as per state of Nebraska (minus Section R313 of the 2018 IRC Automatic Fire Sprinkler System) and the following Appendices to be effective and enforced August 1, 2020:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — County building permits and construction administered by Washington County.
      “WE ARE CURRENTLY USING THE 2018 BUILDING CODES”
  • InspectionsRequired

    County-administered building and related construction permits.

    • Inspections require at least 24 hours' notice.
    • State inspections must pass before county inspections are scheduled.
    • Electrical inspections are handled by the Nebraska State Electrical Division.
    • All required inspections must be completed before permit expiration.

    inspection notice: >= 24 hours minimum

    “All required inspections must be completed prior to the permit expiration date.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — County-regulated building, mechanical, plumbing, radon, septic and erosion-control work.
      “All required inspections must be completed prior to the permit expiration date.”
    • Limited — Projects submitted on the Washington County building permit application.
      “By this signature, the Washington County Building Inspector or authorized representative of Washington County is authorized to enter upon the property described for the purpose of inspections.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Buildings, structures, and uses within a Washington County RV/M Overlay District.

    • The county will not issue a certificate of occupancy unless the project complies with county approvals.
    • The RV/M overlay requires zoning-change-style notice, public hearing, adoption, site plans, and Board and Commission approval.
    “The County shall not issue a building permit, zoning permit, certificate of occupancy or other permits for buildings, structures or uses within a RV/M Overlay District unless they comply with County approvals.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County zoning in unincorporated Washington County outside incorporated city and village jurisdictions.

    • The zoning resolution applies to land outside incorporated city or village limits and outside their zoning or extraterritorial jurisdiction.
    • The resolution establishes zoning districts, dimensional controls, permitted uses, conditional uses, and occupancy controls.
    “The provisions of this Resolution shall apply to unincorporated areas of Washington County except that portion thereof over which cities or villages have been permitted to extend and are exercising zoning jurisdiction;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — County zoning regulations in unincorporated Washington County.
      “The provisions of this Resolution shall apply to unincorporated areas of Washington County except that portion thereof over which cities or villages have been permitted to extend and are exercising zoning jurisdiction”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate of local zoning in Washington County, including county zoning in unincorporated areas and municipal zoning within incorporated jurisdictions.

    • The county zoning resolution excludes areas within incorporated cities or villages and areas where those jurisdictions exercise zoning or extraterritorial jurisdiction.
    • Municipal and village ordinances may apply within their own jurisdictions.
    “at such time as a city or village adopts a ordinance to exercise zoning or control over an unincorporated area, its regulations shall supersede those of Washington County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning regulation in unincorporated Washington County, excluding areas over which an incorporated city or village exercises zoning jurisdiction.
      “The provisions of this Resolution shall apply to unincorporated areas of Washington County except that portion thereof over which cities or villages have been permitted to extend and are exercising zoning jurisdiction; and furthermore at such time as a city or village adopts a ordinance to exercise zoning or control over an unincorporated area, its regulations shall supersede those of Washington County.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Current county zoning districts for land outside incorporated cities and villages and outside their zoning or extraterritorial jurisdiction.

    • The Official Zoning Map, located in the County Planning Office and County Clerk's Office, is the final authority for current zoning status.
    • The listed Section 5.01 districts are distinct from the separately labeled Previous Districts in Section 5.02.
    • Land whose classification is not shown on the Zoning Plan, and land disconnected from an incorporated municipality, defaults to A-1 until classified by amendment.
    • City and village zoning or extraterritorial jurisdiction is excluded.
    “The Official Zoning Map shall be located both in the County Planning Office and the Office of the County Clerk and such map shall be the final authority as the current zoning status of land, water areas, buildings and other structures.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Manufactured homes used as dwellings in the unincorporated areas of Washington County, Nebraska, except areas where a city or village has zoning jurisdiction.

    • The manufactured home must bear an appropriate seal showing construction under Department of Health or U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development standards.
    • The home must meet the same foundation-system, permanent-utility-connection, setback, and minimum-square-footage standards applicable to a site-built single-family dwelling on the same lot.
    • For single-story construction, the home must have at least 900 square feet of above-grade floor area.
    • The home must have at least an 18-foot exterior width.
    • The roof must have a minimum vertical rise of 2.5 inches for each 12 inches of horizontal run.
    • Exterior material must be comparable in color, material, and scale to residential site-built single-family construction.
    • The roof must use non-reflective material that is or simulates asphalt or wood shingles, standing-seam metal roofing, tile, or rock.
    • The home must be placed on a continuous permanent foundation, with wheels, axles, transporting lights, and removable towing apparatus removed.
    • The home must meet and maintain the standards uniformly applied to all single-family dwellings in the applicable zoning district.
    • The permanent foundation base must be poured concrete, laid masonry block, or brick on a footing at least 42 inches below final ground level.
    • The zoning resolution applies to unincorporated areas of Washington County, except portions over which cities or villages have been permitted to extend and are exercising zoning jurisdiction; if a city or village adopts an ordinance exercising zoning or control over an unincorporated area, its regulations supersede the county regulations.

    minimum above-grade floor area for single-story manufactured home: >= 900 square feet · minimum exterior width: >= 18 feet · minimum footing depth below final ground level: >= 42 inches

    “The home shall have no less than 900 square feet of floor area, above grade, for single story construction;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Manufactured homes located in unincorporated Washington County, Nebraska.
      “A. The home shall have no less than 900 square feet of floor area, above grade, for single story construction;”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Dwellings in the A-1 district.

    • The A-1 table applies unless otherwise modified by the zoning resolution.
    • Minimum lot size can be reduced to 2 acres when the property is served by a public water supply system.

    minimum lot area: 3 acres (may be reduced to 2 acres if served by a public water supply system) · minimum lot width: 200 feet

    “* Minimum lot size can be reduced to 2 acres if property is served by a public water supply system.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — The RV/M Overlay District.
      “The height and minimum lot requirements shall be as follows: Minimum lot size: 10.01 acres Front yard setback: Greater of 50 feet or 90 feet from the centerline of a U.S. or State Highway or County Highway Department maintained road Side yard setback: 15 feet Rear yard setback: 25 feet Maximum building height: 35 feet”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Residential buildings in the Residential Mixed Use District.

    • Additional setback from a heavily traveled road may be required when found reasonable by the Commission and Board.
    • The Development Plan must reflect applicable yard requirements.

    perimeter setback: >= 50 feet (additional setback from heavily traveled road may be required)

    “All residential buildings shall set back not less than 50 feet from the perimeter of the land zoned RMD. Additional setback from a heavily traveled road may be required, when found reasonable by the Commission and Board for protection of health, safety and general welfare.”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Residential Mixed Use District development.

    • Building coverage is calculated against net developable area of each individual parcel.
    • The Development Plan must demonstrate compliance.

    maximum building coverage: <= 60 percent of net developable area

    “Building coverage area shall not exceed 60 percent of the net developable area of each individual parcel of the total development.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Development-plan areas governed by the county zoning resolution.
      “Building coverage area shall not exceed 75 percent of the net developable area of each individual parcel of the total development:”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Accessory buildings in the county's RS-2 Rural Subdivision-2 District in unincorporated Washington County.

    • The table states that height and minimum-lot requirements apply except as provided elsewhere in the zoning regulation.
    • No new building may be nearer than 90 feet to the center line of a U.S. or state highway, major county collector road, or other county-maintained road as specified.
    • Other development requirements refer to the Subdivision Regulations.

    maximum building height for accessory buildings: 15 feet (except as provided for elsewhere in the zoning regulation)

    “5.09.05 Height and Lot Requirements: The height and minimum lot requirements shall be as follows except as provided for elsewhere in this Regulation. [...] Max. Building Height (feet) [...] Accessory Buildings - - 100 15 15 15”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Temporary RV camping or occupancy in the RV/M Overlay District.

    • The county zoning resolution expressly limits recreational-vehicle occupancy to 180 consecutive days and 180 days in a calendar year.
    • The RV/M district requires zoning-change-style approval and a single-project site plan.

    maximum occupancy: <= 180 days (both consecutive-day and calendar-year limits apply)

    “Recreational vehicles may not be occupied for more than 180 consecutive days nor for more than 180 days in any calendar year”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Onsite wastewater systems in Washington County.

    • Nebraska Title 124 governs onsite wastewater systems statewide.
    • Washington County separately performs county septic inspections and requires septic information in its application process.
    • Title 124 does not prevent more stringent local requirements.
    “Septic: Partial, Final (application process will require plot plan showing locations of tank, laterals, well, geothermal wells and location of perc tests.)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater systems in unincorporated Washington County.
      “You may print the permit application and copy as needed for use with Washington County Planning Department only (Note: the City of Blair, Fort Calhoun, Kennard and Herman have their own offices and policies)”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    County-administered septic construction and permit projects, plus periodic septic-tank inspection under Nebraska Title 124.

    • Washington County lists partial and final septic inspections and requires a plot plan showing tank, laterals, wells, geothermal wells, and perc-test locations.
    • Nebraska requires periodic septic-tank inspection by a Master or Journeyman Pumper, professional engineer, or registered environmental health specialist under the stated sludge/scum thresholds.

    sludge clearance threshold: < 12 inches (below outlet-baffle bottom) · scum clearance threshold: < 3 inches (above outlet-baffle bottom)

    “The owner of a septic tank will have a Master or Journeyman Pumper, a professional engineer, or a registered environmental health specialist periodically inspect the septic tank”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — County-administered septic systems.
      “Septic: Partial, Final (application process will require plot plan showing locations of tank, laterals, well, geothermal wells and location of perc tests.)”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and platting in unincorporated Washington County outside city or village subdivision jurisdiction.

    • Divisions creating parcels over 10 acres are excluded from the regulation's definition of subdivision.
    • City or village subdivision jurisdiction and separate subdivision regulations are excluded.
    • County Planning Commission and County Board approval are required before covered subdivision or platting.

    subdivision exclusion threshold: > 10 acres (smallest parcel created must be more than 10 acres)

    “No owner of any real property, located outside the limits of subdivision jurisdiction of any city or village shall be permitted to subdivide, plat or lay out said real property into building lots, streets or other portions of the same intended to be dedicated for public use, or for the use of the purchasers or owners of lots fronting thereon or adjacent thereto, without first having obtained the approval thereof of the County Planning Commission and the County Board of Supervisors of Washington County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision and land division in unincorporated Washington County outside city or village subdivision jurisdiction.
      “These Regulations shall apply to the unincorporated area of Washington County, Nebraska, excluding those areas that are within the zoning jurisdiction limits established, enacted, and exercised by any city or having separate subdivision regulations.”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Washington County permit applications and selected zoning conditional-use procedures.

    • The county states that the permit application fee is doubled when a permit is not issued before construction begins.
    • Certain zoning provisions require a $1,000 deposit, refundable when county stipulations are met and forfeitable upon noncompliance.
    • No general fee schedule was located in the reviewed official materials.

    late permit application fee multiplier: 2 times stated application fee (permit not issued before construction starts) · mobile-home conditional-use deposit: 1000 USD (refundable after county stipulations are met)

    “All permits must be issued prior to the start of construction, or the permit application fee is double.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Washington County building-permit application process.

    • Applicants must register through the county's permitting portal.
    • Contractor registration must be approved before the applicant can start the permit application.
    • New homes require two hard-copy plans before the application can proceed.
    • Accessory buildings with interior walls require two 24-inch by 36-inch plans for the shell and interior.
    “After registration has been completed you can login and start your permit application. [...] PERMITS FOR NEW HOMES WILL REQUIRE YOU TO BRING IN 2 HARD COPY PLANS BEFORE YOUR APPLICATION CAN PROCEED.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Washington County contractor registration and permit application process.
      “After submitting your contractor registration, the office will need to go in and approve it. An email will be sent out once it has been approved. After registration has been completed you can login and start your permit application.”

Nebraska rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable

    A person performing work or having work performed on the person's own property under Nebraska's Contractor Registration Act.

    • The exemption means the person is not a contractor for purposes of the Contractor Registration Act.
    • The exemption applies to work on the person's own property.
    • The statute separately states that a person earning less than five thousand dollars annually for construction services is also not a contractor for purposes of the Act.
    • The exemption does not exempt a contractor from withholding requirements under the Nebraska Revenue Act of 1967.
    • This is a contractor-registration exemption and does not establish exemption from applicable building permits, inspections, building codes, electrical requirements, or other local or state approvals.

    annual construction-services earnings threshold: < 5000 USD (Separate statutory basis for not being a contractor under the Act; the own-property exemption has no stated dollar threshold.)

    “Any person who performs work or has work performed on his or her own property or any person who earns less than five thousand dollars annually for construction services is not a contractor for purposes of the Contractor Registration Act.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available — A property owner who performs or arranges construction work on the owner's own property and therefore is outside Nebraska's definition of a contractor for contractor-registration purposes.
      “A contractor is any person or business, including subcontractors and general contractors, who engage in or arrange for work on real property other than their own property.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Tiny houses produced or sold in Nebraska and classified as manufactured homes, modular housing units, or recreational vehicles, including park model recreational vehicles.

    • The Nebraska Public Service Commission states that tiny houses can be built as either a manufactured home, modular housing unit, or recreational vehicle.
    • For a park model recreational vehicle under current Nebraska law, the unit must be designed and marketed as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use; must not be permanently affixed to real property for use as a permanent dwelling; must be built on a single chassis mounted on wheels; must have a gross trailer area not exceeding 400 square feet in the setup mode; and must be certified by the manufacturer as complying with ANSI A119.5, 2025 edition.
    • LB1147 enacted the 400-square-foot park-model limit and specified the 2020 ANSI A119.5 edition; its emergency clause states that the act takes effect when passed and approved according to law.
    • State classification or construction compliance does not establish unrestricted land-use occupancy. County zoning resolutions may regulate the location, size, and uses of structures including house trailers and automobile trailers, and may regulate uses of buildings and land in unincorporated areas.
    • County zoning powers do not apply within incorporated cities or villages, or areas where a city or village has been granted and is exercising zoning jurisdiction. Local zoning, building, utility, health, and other requirements may therefore impose additional conditions.

    park model gross trailer area: <= 400 square feet (Measured in the setup mode.) · park model chassis: single chassis mounted on wheels · park model permanent-affixation: false (The unit must not be permanently affixed to real property for use as a permanent dwelling.)

    “(16) Park model recreational vehicle means a vehicular unit which meets the following criteria: (a) Is designed and marketed as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use; (b) Is not permanently affixed to real property for use as a permanent dwelling; (c) Is built on a single chassis mounted on wheels with a gross trailer area not exceeding four hundred square feet in the set up mode; and (d) Is certified by the manufacturer as complying with the ANSI A119.5 Park Model Recreational Vehicle Standard of the American National Standards Institute, 2025 edition;”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Onsite wastewater systems in Washington County subject to Nebraska Title 124.

    • General permit coverage may apply instead of an individual construction permit.
    • Chapter 2 exemptions apply to specified repairs and temporary modifications.
    • A construction permit is required before construction when an application is required.
    “Operating an onsite wastewater system is prohibited if: [...] The system was constructed, reconstructed, altered, or modified without a construction permit and did not obtain coverage under a general permit;”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Existing onsite wastewater treatment systems subject to Nebraska Title 124.
      “An existing onsite wastewater treatment system must obtain a new construction and/or operating permit or coverage under a general permit in accordance with this title if:”
    • Limited — Onsite wastewater systems statewide where system size, non-domestic waste handling, or siting issues require a site-specific evaluation and permitting; ordinary systems also remain subject to applicable Title 124 compliance and registration rules.
      “Most onsite wastewater systems in Nebraska are constructed under “Authorization by Rule” which does not require a construction permit [...] However, some systems will require a permit”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid sanitation for dwellings or non-dwelling facilities generating wastewater.

    • The facility must use an onsite wastewater treatment system complying with Title 124 or connect to wastewater works.
    • Cesspools, dry wells, leeching pits, and seepage pits are prohibited.
    • A system with design flow greater than 1,000 gallons per day that does not use soil absorption is treated as wastewater works under Title 123.

    design flow threshold: > 1000 gallons per day (non-soil-absorption systems are wastewater works)

    “A dwelling or non-dwelling facility that generates wastewater is to have an onsite wastewater treatment system in accordance with these regulations or be connected to a wastewater works.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Off-grid wastewater sanitation using an onsite wastewater treatment system, including septic systems, holding tanks, lagoons, or mound systems, statewide in Nebraska.
      “households depend on septic systems [...] for wastewater treatment. [...] the Nebraska Department [...] regulates these systems through Title 124”
  • Well permitLimited

    Construction or modification of water wells in Nebraska groundwater management areas, on land owned or controlled by the person constructing the well.

    • Before commencing construction, the applicant must apply to the district in which the well will be located, using district forms.
    • No permit is required for test holes or dewatering wells intended for use for ninety days or less.
    • No permit is required for a single water well designed and constructed to pump fifty gallons per minute or less.
    • A district may exempt replacement water wells by rule and regulation.
    • A district may require a permit for a well designed and constructed to pump fifty gallons per minute or less when it is commingled, combined, clustered, or joined with another well or water source, excluding a water source used to water range livestock; combined wells are treated as one well and their combined capacity is used as the rated capacity.
    • In groundwater management areas where regulations have been imposed to control declining groundwater levels, a district may require permits for each well or categories of wells designed and constructed to pump fifty gallons per minute or less, except water sources required for human needs relating to health, fire control, or sanitation and water sources used to water range livestock.
    • The district must review the application and issue or deny the permit within thirty days after filing.
    • The application requires a fifty-dollar filing fee payable to the district.
    • The application must include the applicant's name and post-office address, proposed use, intended location, size, type and description, estimated depth if known, estimated capacity in gallons per minute, irrigation acreage and legal description if applicable, non-irrigation use description if applicable, replacement-well registration number if applicable, and other information required by the district.
    • A person who failed to obtain a required permit must apply for a late permit, accompanied by a two-hundred-fifty-dollar fee and the same information required for an ordinary application.
    • A person must apply before modifying a well that was previously exempt into one for which a permit would otherwise be required.

    pump capacity threshold: <= 50 gallons per minute (Single wells at or below this threshold are exempt unless a district rule requires a permit under the statutory exceptions.) · ordinary application filing fee: 50 USD (Payable to the district.) · late permit application fee: 250 USD (Applies when a required permit was not obtained.) · district decision deadline: 30 days (Measured after the application is filed.) · dewatering intended-use period: <= 90 days (Test holes and dewatering wells intended for use for ninety days or less do not require a permit.)

    “shall, before commencing construction, apply with the district in which the water well will be located for a permit on forms provided by the district”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Wastewater service for dwellings and non-dwellings generating wastewater statewide in Nebraska.

    • The property must have an onsite wastewater treatment system complying with Title 124, or be connected to a public sewer system or other wastewater works.
    • Local city and county requirements are separate from and in addition to statewide Title 124 requirements.
    “A dwelling or non-dwelling that generates wastewater must have an onsite wastewater treatment (OWT) system [...] or be connected to a public sewer system”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    County zoning regulations and permit requirements for agricultural-purpose buildings on qualifying Nebraska farmsteads, and county zoning treatment of residences on farmsteads.

    • For purposes of the statute, nonfarm buildings are all buildings except buildings utilized for agricultural purposes on a farmstead of twenty acres or more that produces one thousand dollars or more of farm products each year.
    • The county board may decide whether buildings located on farmsteads used as residences are subject to county zoning regulations and permit requirements.
    • The exemption concerns county zoning and permit requirements; other applicable state, local, health, septic, floodplain, or safety requirements are not resolved by this statute.
    • The statute requires county zoning regulations to be adopted or amended only after adoption of a county comprehensive development plan and receipt of specific planning-commission recommendations.

    qualifying farmstead size: >= 20 acres (farmstead used for agricultural purposes) · annual farm products: >= 1000 USD (farmstead must produce at least this amount of farm products each year)

    “buildings utilized for agricultural purposes on a farmstead of twenty acres or more which produces one thousand dollars or more of farm products each year.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Agricultural buildings on farmsteads of at least 20 acres producing at least $1,000 of farm products annually, in the context of county zoning regulations and permit requirements.
      “For purposes of this section and section 23-114.04, nonfarm buildings are all buildings except those buildings utilized for agricultural purposes on a farmstead of twenty acres or more which produces one thousand dollars or more of farm products each year.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New, relocated, or altered private driveways and commercial approach roads connecting to State Highway rights of way.

    • No permits will be issued for driveways or approach roads to private property where the Department has acquired all or portions of the rights of access.
    • Applications must use the Department-furnished form.
    • Hard-surfaced driveway and approach-road applications go to the Department of Roads; unsurfaced driveway applications go to the proper District Engineer's office.
    • The driveway or approach road must comply with permit conditions and must not alter highway drainage or side ditches.
    • A certified check is required as a guarantee; its amount is determined after application and based on the extent of proposed work.
    “Any person desiring to construct a new driveway or approach road or any person desiring to relocate or alter an existing driveway or approach road shall apply for a permit to do so.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    All development in a Nebraska floodplain, administered through applicable local floodplain programs under state and federal standards.

    • All development in a floodplain requires a permit, including additions and new structures.
    • A new structure must meet existing Base Flood Elevation requirements.
    • An addition must meet Base Flood Elevation requirements when it is a substantial improvement.
    • Substantial improvement means reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or other improvement costing 50 percent or more of the structure's pre-improvement market value.
    • Development includes human-made changes to improved or unimproved real estate, including construction, modifications, repairs, temporary stream crossings, roads, bridges, school buildings, storage, dredging, paving, filling, and grading.
    • Permits must ensure compliance with National Flood Insurance Program requirements, city ordinances, and county resolutions.

    substantial improvement threshold: >= 50 percent of pre-improvement market value

    “All development in a floodplain, whether an addition or a brand new structure, requires a permit.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term lodging operations in Nebraska, including hotels, tourist homes, private homes rented in whole or in part, campgrounds, and RV pads or hookups.

    • A separate lodging tax permit is required for each hotel.
    • The permit is issued only after examination and approval.
    • The permit is not assignable and is valid only for the named operator, location, and transaction of business.
    • The permit must be conspicuously displayed.
    • Operating without a permit or after suspension is a misdemeanor; conviction may result in a fine up to $500 per day.
    • The cited state rule addresses lodging-tax permitting and does not establish statewide zoning approval for short-term rentals.

    maximum fine for operation without permit after conviction: <= 500 USD per day

    “Every person engaged in the business of operating a hotel in this state where the public may, for a consideration, obtain sleeping accommodations, must file an application with the Nebraska Department of Revenue for a Nebraska lodging tax permit.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Nebraska county boards adopting zoning resolutions for county territory outside incorporated cities and villages and outside areas where a city or village has been granted or ceded zoning jurisdiction and is exercising that jurisdiction.

    • The county board may adopt a zoning resolution having the force and effect of law.
    • The zoning resolution may regulate buildings, structures, lot coverage, setbacks, yards, population density, building uses, and land uses for agriculture, forestry, recreation, residence, industry, and trade in the unincorporated area of the county.
    • The powers may not be exercised within incorporated cities or villages or within an unincorporated area over which a city or village has been granted or ceded zoning jurisdiction and is exercising it.
    • A city or village zoning ordinance or amendment controlling an unincorporated area supersedes the county resolution or regulation.
    • If a zoning resolution or regulation affects the Niobrara scenic river corridor, the Niobrara Council must act as provided in section 72-2010.
    • A county board may not prohibit a qualifying manufactured home solely because it is manufactured, but may impose the listed installation and design standards and may not impose additional standards unless uniformly applied to all single-family dwellings in the zoning district.
    • Special districts or zones may be established in areas subject to seasonal or periodic flooding.
    “to adopt a zoning resolution, which shall have the force and effect of law;”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Nebraska counties adopting, administering, enforcing, and requiring permits under local building or construction codes for buildings, including residential construction, in unincorporated areas.

    • A county may enact, administer, or enforce a local building or construction code only if it adopts the state building code or adopts a building or construction code that conforms generally with the state building code.
    • A local code may include special or differing standards only within the statutory conformity rules, including standards addressing construction costs, safety, durability, efficiency, best practices, or special local conditions.
    • A local code must be regularly updated; generally, the most recently enacted state building code or a conforming code must be adopted within two years after an update to the state building code.
    • If a county does not adopt a code as authorized within two years after an update to the state building code, the state building code applies in the county, except that it does not apply to construction on a farm or for farm purposes.
    • A county may adopt administrative amendments concerning enforcement organization, staff qualifications, plan examination, inspections, appeals, permits, and fees, and may publish those amendments separately from the code.
    • Under section 23-172, county-adopted codes and the building-permit or occupancy-permit requirements imposed by those codes or sections 23-114.04 and 23-114.05 apply throughout the county except within incorporated cities or villages and except within an unincorporated area where a city or village has been granted zoning jurisdiction and is exercising that jurisdiction.
    • Under section 23-114.04, permits are required before erection, construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, or conversion of a nonfarm building or structure within a zoned area; a permit may be withheld when the proposed purpose conflicts with applicable district zoning regulations.
    • Section 23-114.04 permits reasonable county permit-fee schedules and requires written plans, including sanitation, plumbing, and sewage-disposal information, that fully conform to zoning regulations before permits issue.
    • Section 23-172 states that nothing in that section creates an obligation for the county to inspect plumbing work to determine compliance with the plumbing code.
    “Any county, city, or village may enact, administer, or enforce a local building or construction code if or as long as such county, city, or village: (i) Adopts the state building code; or (ii) Adopts a building or construction code that conforms generally with the state building code.”

Set by your township or city, not the county

In Nebraska, zoning is adopted by each township or city, so Washington County has no county-wide answer on these. Find your township or city in the list of places on this page, or call its clerk or zoning administrator.

  • Living in an RV
  • Accessory dwellings

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Washington County, Nebraska

Is Washington County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Washington County scores 44/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Watch-outs: about 219,187 people within a 30-minute drive.

Do you need a building permit in Washington County, Nebraska?

Washington County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE) - Onsite Wastewater. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Washington County, Nebraska?

Land in Washington County runs about $7,365 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Washington County?

Washington County gets about 31.9" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 17.3% of years.

How remote is Washington County?

A representative private-land location has about 219,187 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,965,589 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Washington compares in Nebraska

Compare side-by-side →See all 93 Nebraska counties ranked →