FAQs • Blair, NE • CivicEngage

What are setbacks?: The term setback means the required distance separating a building or structure from a property line. Setback regulations for buildings are included in the Zoning Ordinance under Title 18. Setback regulations for accessory structures are included in the Zoning Ordinance under Chapter 18.45. For more information, please view the Civic City Title 18.

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Planning and Zoning

1. Can I change the zoning designation of my property?: Zone changes require an application, which must appear before the Planning Commission for a recommendation and then before the City Council for approval. Zone changes must be consistent with the Future Land Use Map, and must not create a spot zone (one lot different than all the surrounding lots).

For more information, please contact the Building Department at 402.426.4191.

2. What height fence can I install in my yard?: Zoning Regulations allow a 42-inch high maximum on fences in the front yard. In the case of a corner lot, no fence constructed in the second front yard (the side yard abutting the street) of a corner lot shall exceed 48 inches in height. Fences that are located in the side and back yards can be up to 6 feet in height. Finally, no fence, or other object, can exceed 30-inches in height in the sight triangle. (Article 11, Section 1102)

3. What businesses can I operate on my property?: First, determine the zoning district your property is located in by checking the City's zoning map or calling the Planning Division at (785) 587-1853.

Next, look up the permitted uses for your zoning district. If your use is not listed in the permitted use section, check the conditional use section to determine if your use requires a Conditional Use Permit (CUOP).

Some general uses that typically require a CUP include drive-through restaurants, gas stations, childcare facilities, and educational facilities. For more information, please visit Zoning Location.

4. What are setbacks?: The term setback means the required distance separating a building or structure from a property line. Setback regulations for buildings are included in the Zoning Ordinance under Title 18. Setback regulations for accessory structures are included in the Zoning Ordinance under Chapter 18.45. For more information, please view the Civic City Title 18.

5. Is a chicken wire type fence allowed in the City of Blair?: No. Permitted types of fencing include chain link fencing, wood fencing (including split rail), wrought iron, plastic, vinyl or other ornamental fencing. (Article 11, Section 1102 (5))

6. Can I install my fence on my property line?: Yes. Fences can be placed either on or inside the property line. If you locate the fence on the property line, you automatically give permission to an adjoining neighbor to physically connect to your fence. Also, if your neighbor disputes the location of the property line, you must have the property line located by a surveyor licensed in Nebraska.

7. Are their regulations concerning required parking for various building uses?: Yes. Article 11, Section 1111 covers the requirements for off-street parking spaces and off-street loading spaces. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) also has specific requirements for parking spaces and the accessible path into facilities.

8. What is an accessory building?: Accessory buildings are subordinate buildings that are incidental to the main/principal building on the premises in residential districts. Customary accessory buildings include, but are not limited to, detached garages, storage sheds, and garden houses. (Article 3 Section 303)

9. How many accessory buildings can I have on my property?: Only two accessory buildings can be constructed on each property. (Article 11, Section 1103.02)

10. Can an accessory structure or garage be built on a vacant lot?: No. No accessory building shall be constructed on a property that does not already have a primary building or structure. No accessory building shall remain if the primary structure is removed or demolished. (Article 11, Section 1103.02 (4))

11. How close to the property line along an alley can an accessory structure or garage be built?: Accessory buildings allowing vehicle access perpendicular to an alleyway shall be located a minimum of fifteen (15) feet from the property line. Accessory buildings allowing vehicle access parallel to an alleyway shall be located a minimum of five (5) feet from the property line. (Article 11, Section 1103.03)