Nebraska Statewide Rule

Nebraska Rent Control Status Under State Landlord Law

Few RestrictionsApplies statewide across Nebraska (2026)

Nebraska has no statewide rent control statute and no Nebraska city currently imposes rent control. Rent and lease terms are governed uniformly under the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), Neb. Rev. Stat. 76-1401 to 76-1449.

Key Facts

Governing statute: URLTA, 76-1401 to 76-1449
Statewide rent caps: None
Security deposit max: One month rent
Local rent control: None enacted in Nebraska
Pet deposit max: One quarter month rent

Source: Nebraska Legislature

Full Breakdown

Nebraska's URLTA at Neb. Rev. Stat. 76-1404 provides a unified statewide framework for residential leases, security deposits, and rent obligations. The Act does not authorize local rent ceilings, and no Nebraska municipality has adopted rent stabilization. Rent is whatever the parties agree to in the lease, with statutory rules governing late fees, notice of increases at lease renewal, and security deposit caps under section 76-1416. Legislation to expressly preempt local rent control (LB 266, 2025 session) has been advanced by the Legislature but practical effect is currently moot because no city has tried to enact one.

Violations & Penalties

Tenants harmed by improper rent or deposit practices may sue in county court for damages, attorney's fees, and recovery of wrongfully withheld deposits up to one month's rent under URLTA remedies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is rent control legal in Nebraska?

Nebraska does not have rent control and no city has adopted it. The URLTA governs leases statewide. A 2025 bill (LB 266) seeks to expressly prohibit any local rent control ordinance.

Can my landlord raise the rent any amount?

Yes, at lease renewal a Nebraska landlord may set rent at any amount, provided proper written notice is given before the term ends. Mid-lease increases are not allowed unless the lease specifically permits them.

What deposit limits apply statewide?

Under Neb. Rev. Stat. 76-1416, security deposits are capped at one month's rent, plus an additional pet deposit of up to one-quarter month's rent. Deposits must be returned within 14 days of vacancy.

Sources

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