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Papillion Zoning & Land Use Guide

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Key Zoning Facts

Planning Department
City of Papillion Planning Department(402) 597-2021
Building Code Edition
2018 International Building Code (locally adopted)
ADUs Allowed
Yes
Primary District
R-1 Single-Family Residential
Max Height
35 ft

Papillion Zoning Overview

Papillion is a rapidly growing suburb in the Omaha metropolitan area, located in Sarpy County. The city has become one of the most desirable residential communities in the region, consistently ranked among the best places to live in Nebraska. Papillion's growth has been driven by quality schools, proximity to Offutt Air Force Base, and its position within the expanding Omaha metro.

The city's zoning code reflects a suburban community that manages residential growth through master-planned developments, commercial centers, and parks. Papillion's comprehensive plan emphasizes managed growth, neighborhood connectivity, and quality-of-life amenities.

Key Zoning Districts

Papillion uses R-1 through R-4 residential districts, C-1 through C-3 commercial districts, and limited industrial zones. Many newer developments use planned unit development zoning that allows flexible site design and mixed housing types.

ADU Regulations

Papillion allows accessory dwelling units under local ordinance. Nebraska has no statewide ADU law. Local regulations on size, parking, and occupancy apply. Many newer subdivisions have HOA restrictions that may further limit ADU construction.

Development Process

Development review in Papillion involves pre-application meetings, formal permit applications, and review by Planning staff. The Planning Commission and City Council handle rezoning and subdivision approvals.

Regulatory Layers That Apply in Papillion

Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.

Federal

State — Nebraska

  • Building Code: No mandatory statewide residential code; local adoption
View Nebraska zoning overview

County — Sarpy County

  • Role: Property records, tax assessment, unincorporated area planning

City / Municipal

The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.

Overlay Districts

No overlay districts identified.

Private Restrictions

  • HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
  • Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.

Primary Zoning Districts

R-1Single-Family Residential
Min Lot
9,000 sq ft
Max Height
35 ft
Front Setback
25 ft
Side Setback
7 ft
Rear Setback
25 ft
R-3Multi-Family Residential
Min Lot
6,000 sq ft
Max Height
45 ft
Front Setback
25 ft
Side Setback
10 ft
Rear Setback
25 ft
C-2General Commercial
Min Lot
None
Max Height
50 ft
Front Setback
10 ft
Side Setback
0 ft
Rear Setback
10 ft

ADU Rules in Papillion

ADUs:Allowed
Max Size
700 sq ft
Max Height
20 ft
Rear Setback
5 ft
Side Setback
5 ft
Parking
1 off-street space required
Owner Occupancy
Owner must occupy primary dwelling
Permit Timeline
3-5 weeks

Permit Costs & Timelines

Permit Costs & Timelines

Specific permit fee schedules for Papillion are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.

Check Papillion permit fees →

Official Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I build an ADU in Papillion?
Papillion allows accessory dwelling units in certain residential zones under local ordinance. Contact the Planning Department for details.
How do I find the zoning for my property in Papillion?
Contact the City of Papillion Planning Department at (402) 597-2021.
What zones allow multi-family housing in Papillion?
Multi-family housing is permitted in R-3 and some commercial zones.