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Code Enforcement

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1. What are property pins?

Property pins define the four corners of a lot. They are 0.5- or 5/8-inch rebar planted in the ground and most of them are only six inches deep.

2. When do I have to have a building permit?

A permit is needed anytime a structure is altered, different materials are used for replacing existing structures, and when new structures are put up including sheds, carports, garages, signs, concrete, and fences. Click here to view the Building Permit

3. How do I obtain a building permit?

Building Permits are available online or can be picked up at the City Offices at 325 N Colorado. Click here to view the Building Permit

4. What is the setback for a shed in the backyard?

A shed must be six feet away from both the rear and side lot lines.

5. How long is a building permit good for?

A building permit is good for 6 months after it has been issued.

6. How do I apply for a building permit?

Please fill out the Building Permit form and return to the City Offices at 325 N. Colorado. Call 308-832-1820 with any questions. Click here to view the Building Permit

7. How much will a building permit cost?

The cost varies based on the project. Signs, Fences, Carports, decks, sidewalks, pools, demolitions, and other out buildings are $10.00. Garages, commercial buildings, alterations, and/or additions have a base charge plus a charge per square foot. Contact the Code Enforcement Officer to get an estimate.

8. How long will it take to get a building permit?

After receipt of your completed permit, the Code Enforcement Officer has two weeks to issue the permit.

9. Can homeowners submit their own drawings with a building permit?

Yes, sketches by hand are acceptable for all building permits. Please include dimensions and directions.

10. How do I check the status of my permit?

Call the Code Enforcement Officer at 308-832-1820.

11. How will I receive my permit?

Your permit will be mailed to the address provided on your permit.

12. What type of payment does the City of Minden accept?

The City of Minden accepts cash, money orders, and checks. Credit and/or debit cards are not accepted.

13. How close to my property lines may I build a house, shed, garage, or carport?

All structures must be at least 6' from the property lines. For exact specifications, please review the online Municipal Code

14. Where can I put a fence on my property?

A fence can be built in the front, side, and rear yards and must meet vision clearance requirements. Fences cannot be outside of your property lines.

15. Can I run a business out of my home?

Yes, as long as there is no signage on the property nor outside storage of equipment. State licensed child daycares are allowed in the Residential 1 districts. Please check with the code enforcement officer for further details and/or refer to Sec. 94-66 of the Municipal Codes

16. How do I locate my property pins?

The property pins are about 6” underground in the corners of your property. Property owners are responsible for locating their own property pins. The City of Minden does not locate property pins on private property.

17. What is the process when code violations are found?

A letter is sent to the residents and/or owners notifying them of the violation and a time limit is given for compliance. If contact isn’t made with the Code Enforcement Officer or no visible changes are made, then another notice is hand delivered or sent certified. The City of Minden will take appropriate actions to clean-up the property if not done by the residents and/or owners.

18. Who is responsible for sidewalk snow removal?

The owner of any lot is responsible for keeping the sidewalks along his lot free of snow and ice.

19. When would a variance be needed?

A variance is needed if you want to put up a new structure other than a fence on a substandard size lot.

20. What is the variance process?

The variance process can be lengthy. It requires several meetings of various boards and publishing of their meetings in advance, etc. Please check with the Code Enforcement officer for more details.

21. What are the dimensions of a standard size lot?

A standard size lot is 66’ by 120’. Anything smaller than the previous dimensions is a substandard lot.

22. Who do I call before digging?

Call Diggers Hotline of Nebraska at 8-1-1. The call and services are free and can save you liability for damaged utilities you may incur if you don't call.