City of Lincoln  
City of Lincoln/Lancaster County
Planning

PATS Frequently Asked Questions

Lancaster County

What type of information can I find on PATS?
PATS information is drawn from an internal workflow database known as "PermitsPlus." The PermitsPlus database tracks the review of planning applications once they are formally submitted to the City-County Planning Department. PATS allows you to view when an application was submitted, its general content, when public hearings on the application will occur, the actions taken by the various public bodies reviewing the application, and key documentation relating to the application.

What applications are processed by the Planning Department?
The Planning Department processes applications relating to land subdivision, zoning, and other land use permits. For example:

How complete is information on PATS?
The database from which PATS draws information was started in 2003 and contains information on over 12,000 applications. As new applications are submitted to the Planning Department for review, they are added to the database. Selected information from applications submitted prior to 2000 have also been added but this information is typically less complete.

Can there be more than one application for any one site?
Yes. In certain instances there may be multiple applications for any given site. If there are multiple applications, the application numbers of the related proposals will be shown.

Do I need to know an application's number in order to use the website?
No. The "Search Screen" allows you to explore and view applications within subareas of the City without knowing a specific application number.

I saw a "yellow zoning sign." How can I find out what's being proposed?
The yellow zoning signs are placed near properties where a planning application has been applied for. To see what planning action is being sought, go to the interactive mapping site and click on the "yellow zoning sign icon" you saw. This will return information about the application.

How can I view the planning regulations pertinent to the application?
The City Ordinances regulating zoning and subdivisions, as well as the companion regulations for the County can be viewed on the "Development Statutes & Regulations" page of the Planning Department website.

Who can I contact at the Planning Department for more information?
Each application is assigned to a specific staff Planner in the Planning Department. This Planner's name will be shown as part of the information displayed for the application. You may email the Planner by clicking on their name. If you are seeking more general information, you may email the Planning Department at plan@lincoln.ne.gov or call 402-441-7491 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday (except holidays.)

PATS