Omaha and Douglas County treat hot tubs and spas under IRC Appendix G/V per NRS §71-6403. An electrical permit is required for the 240V circuit. A locking safety cover meeting ASTM F1346 may substitute for a fence barrier.
Hot tubs and permanent spas in Douglas County are regulated by the Nebraska-adopted International Residential Code 2018 Appendix G (Appendix V in IRC 2021) and the 2023 National Electrical Code. An electrical permit is required to install the dedicated GFCI-protected 240V/50A circuit; NEC Article 680 governs hot tub wiring, bonding, and disconnect location (5 to 10 feet from the tub, within sight). A building permit may also be required depending on deck, shelter, or structural work. Setbacks from property lines generally match accessory-structure rules in Omaha zoning Chapter 55 (typically 5 feet side/rear). Barrier rules under IRC Appendix G apply, but a locking safety cover meeting ASTM F1346 that is in place when the tub is unattended satisfies the barrier requirement — a separate perimeter fence is not required. Drainage from the tub cannot be discharged onto neighbors or into storm drains without dechlorination. Portable spas under 24 inches deep with integrated covers generally have lighter requirements. Indoor hot tubs need adequate ventilation to prevent moisture damage.
Unpermitted electrical work: stop-work order, up to $500 fine, mandatory inspection. Missing ASTM F1346 cover when unattended: correction order, citation up to $500. Improper drainage: Omaha stormwater violation, remediation required.
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