Nebraska Governor Signs Legislation to Improve Ag Zoning Processes

New law creates uniform, transparent and expedited process for permit applications in West Point

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen signed legislation in West Point aimed at improving county zoning processes for agricultural producers. The new law, LB 663, creates a uniform, transparent and expedited process for the application, review and approval of conditional use and special exemption permit applications for livestock and dairy operations.

Why it matters

The legislation is seen as a major win for Nebraska's dairy and livestock industries, which have been seeking more clarity and consistency in the zoning process to support expansion and investment in rural communities. The new law is expected to make it easier for producers to navigate the permitting process and plan for the future.

The details

LB 663 establishes new requirements for county boards and commissions when considering permit applications, including mandating education hours for certain officials, requiring decisions be based solely on zoning regulations, and setting timelines for counties to act on applications. If no action is taken within 90 days, the application is automatically approved. The law also allows counties to require a new application if new information comes to light that could materially affect the original application.

  • On March 1, 2026, Governor Pillen signed LB 663 into law in West Point.
  • The new law went into effect immediately upon signing.

The players

Jim Pillen

The Governor of Nebraska who signed LB 663 into law.

Tanya Storer

The state senator who introduced LB 663 last year.

Mark McHargue

The president of the Nebraska Farm Bureau, who expressed appreciation for the new law's clarity and consistency for farmers and ranchers.

Walt Traudt

A representative of Nebraska pork producers, who cited the law's creation of a more transparent and predictable livestock siting process.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This is a huge win for our dairy industry and all livestock development in Nebraska. We are becoming a national leader in dairy growth. If we want to capture more of that economic impact here at home — creating careers, supporting farm families and strengthening our rural communities — we must make it easier for producers to expand and invest.”

— Jim Pillen, Governor of Nebraska

“LB 663 is the result of over a year of collaborative work with both NACO (Nebraska Association of County Officials) and the agriculture industry. This legislation aims to improve our zoning laws by preserving the local control counties need to best represent their geographic areas while creating more consistency and transparency for our ag producers seeking to expand and diversify their operations.”

— Tanya Storer, State Senator

“Nebraska's farm and ranch families are committed to this state and to building a strong future for the next generation. LB 663 brings much-needed clarity, consistency and accountability to a zoning process that directly impacts farmers, ranchers and rural communities. When producers are making major long-term investments, they need clear expectations and reasonable timelines.”

— Mark McHargue, President, Nebraska Farm Bureau

“This legislation creates a more transparent and predictable livestock siting process, including reasonable timelines for permitting decisions. That certainly allows producers to plan for the future, invest with confidence and continue supporting responsible growth and economic opportunity in rural communities across Nebraska.”

— Walt Traudt, Representative, Nebraska Pork Producers

What’s next

The new law went into effect immediately upon Governor Pillen's signing, and counties across Nebraska will now begin implementing the new zoning process requirements.

The takeaway

LB 663 represents a significant step forward for Nebraska's agricultural industry, providing greater clarity, consistency and accountability in the county zoning process. This legislation is expected to support continued growth and investment in the state's dairy, livestock and other farming sectors, strengthening rural communities across Nebraska.