Zoning Public Meeting Aug. 13, 2026

The City of Hastings, Nebraska held a zoning public meeting on August 13, 2026, to discuss proposed regulations concerning sexually oriented businesses and community retail adult establishments such as bars and liquor stores. The meeting focused on reviewing case law, zoning practices from other communities, and recommendations from the American Planning Association regarding buffer zones and land area percentages for these businesses. Various buffer distances ranging from 150 feet to 2,000 feet were considered, with a recommendation for a 750-foot buffer to meet APA benchmarks. However, community input showed a preference to maintain the existing 500-foot buffer for sexually oriented businesses and the 150-foot buffer for bars and liquor stores. The discussion emphasized constitutional rights to operate such businesses and the need to avoid zoning that could lead to lawsuits. The proposed regulations will be further reviewed by the planning commission and city council, with multiple public hearings planned for community input before final adoption.