Douglas County building setbacks are governed by Omaha Municipal Code Ch. 55 (Zoning). Typical R-4 residential setbacks: 25 ft front, 5 ft side, 25 ft rear. Accessory structures reduced to 3 ft rear/side. Corner lots have increased setbacks. Variances through Omaha Planning Board.
Building setbacks in Douglas County are governed by Omaha Municipal Code Chapter 55 (Zoning) for Omaha, the Douglas County Zoning Resolution for unincorporated areas, and individual codes for Ralston, Bennington, Valley, and Waterloo. Standard R-4 (single-family) residential setbacks in Omaha are 25 feet front, 5 feet minimum side (typically 7.5 ft total side if 5 ft single), and 25 feet rear. Denser R-5 and R-6 zones have reduced setbacks. Corner lots require the side adjacent to the street to match the front setback requirement, reducing buildable area. Accessory structures (sheds, detached garages) can be placed 3 feet from rear and side lot lines if they meet size and height restrictions under Omaha Muni Code §55-155. Encroachments permitted into setbacks include eaves (up to 2 feet), chimneys, and window wells. Decks and patios generally must meet setback rules, though ground-level patios are treated differently. Setback variances require application to the Omaha Zoning Board of Appeals with demonstrated hardship. Douglas County AG zones have 50-foot setbacks for structures.
Building in setback: stop-work order issued by Omaha Permits & Inspections. Fines $100 to $1,000 under Omaha Muni Code Ch. 55. Required correction may include structure removal at owner expense. Retroactive variance possible but not guaranteed.
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