Excavation permits and rules in Nebraska
What the state requires before and during excavation work, with the page each rule comes from. It's a summary of the published rules, not legal advice, and a county or city can add rules of its own.
Checked September 19, 2026
Calling 811 before you dig
Anyone digging in Nebraska has to notify Nebraska 811 before work starts. Call 811 at least 2 full business days, and no more than 10, before digging.1-2
Text of the law
The notice period under Neb. Rev. Stat. 76-2301 to 76-2330: At least two full business days, but no more than ten business days, before commencing the excavation.1-2
Licensing
Nebraska licenses contractors through the Nebraska Department of Labor (Contractor Registration). Who needs a license: All contractors doing business in Nebraska must register; no dollar threshold stated. Registration only, no exam; covers any contractor or subcontractor doing work on real property other than their own, and contractors with employees must file a workers' compensation certificate.3
Stormwater and erosion control
A stormwater permit is needed at 1 acre, or less than 1 acre if part of a common plan of development or sale. Coverage is under the Construction Storm Water General NPDES Permit NER210000 (effective December 1, 2021, expires November 30, 2026).4-5
Get quotes from contractors in your county
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Sources
What excavation costs in Nebraska
Published national ranges for the common jobs, the regional adjustment for Nebraska, and a planning estimate you can run for your own county.
Contractors in Nebraska
Nebraska has 417 excavation contractors listed, and 301 of them hold an active USDOT registration. Browse them by county, or ask for quotes and we'll match you with excavation contractors near you.
Cite this page
“Excavation permits and rules in Nebraska.” LeaderExcavation.com, updated September 19, 2026. https://leaderexcavation.com/ne/rules/