Lincoln City Council approves zoning changes for housing, market contract

LINCOLN, Neb. — Lincoln's City Council unanimously approved significant zoning changes and multiple ordinances at its March 30 meeting that aim to expand housing options and support downtown development.

The council voted 7-0 to adopt amended zoning regulations for accessory dwelling units, or ADUs—secondary homes built on single-family residential lots. The changes make it easier for homeowners to add accessory dwelling units by allowing them on standard single-family lots, enabling garage and outbuilding conversions, updating height and size limits, and clarifying short-term rental rules.

The amendments represent a significant expansion of eligibility. Currently, only 24% of parcels in residential districts can meet the lot size required for an ADU, but if the proposed changes are approved, 80% of single-family parcels would meet the lot size requirement. ADUs must still be no larger than 800 square feet or 40% of the primary home, whichever is less, remain limited to one bedroom, and the lot owner must live on the property.

The council also approved a public market contract with Lincoln Haymarket Development Corporation. The Haymarket Farmers Market will operate Saturdays from May 2, 2026, through October 10, 2026, from 8 a.m. until noon at 7th and P Street. The council voted 7-0 to approve the two-year operating agreement extending through October 2027.

Other council actions included approving professional services agreements for the A Street rehabilitation project between 40th and 56th streets with WSP USA, Inc. for preliminary engineering services. The project will improve existing neighborhood and arterial streets with funding from the "Lincoln on the Move" voter-approved quarter-cent sales tax.

The council also approved liquor licenses for three establishments: Perfect Diner, Big 8, and Glosse Nail Lounge. All appointments to city boards and committees passed unanimously.