Nebraska Rules for Hotel and Motel Tenants: Your Rights

If you're staying long-term in a Nebraska hotel or motel, you may wonder what tenant rights you have. The lines between a 'guest' and a true 'tenant' can be confusing—especially if you face eviction, fee issues, or maintenance concerns. This guide clarifies how Nebraska law treats long-term motel and hotel residents, your protections, and where to get help as a renter.

Who Is Considered a Tenant in a Nebraska Hotel or Motel?

Nebraska law draws an important distinction between short-term guests and residents who have established a 'tenancy.'
Under the Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act:

• If you rent a hotel or motel room as your primary residence (such as staying several weeks or months), and pay rent regularly, you may be legally considered a tenant.
• Short-term or transient guests (e.g., nightly or weekly stays without intent of permanent residence) generally do not have the same rights as tenants.

Each situation is different; length of stay, payment schedule, and your intentions all matter. If you receive mail, set up utilities, or use the address for official purposes, you may be viewed as a tenant in the eyes of Nebraska law.^[1]

What Laws Apply to Hotel and Motel Renters?

The main law protecting renters is the Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA). It covers most rental homes—including hotels and motels—if you are considered a tenant (not merely a guest).^[1]

• If you stay over a certain period (typically 30 days or more) and pay regular rent, URLTA protections may apply.
• If you do not have legal tenant status, motel/hotel staff may not have to use formal eviction proceedings.

The Nebraska Attorney General’s Landlord & Tenant Rights page provides helpful overviews for renters in special circumstances.

Eviction and Removal: What Are the Rules?

If You Are Not a Tenant

If you are a guest (short-term, no intent to make it your home), the hotel may ask you to leave at any time, often with little or no notice.

If You Are Legally a Tenant

• The hotel or motel must follow Nebraska's formal eviction process, which usually requires written notice.
• Eviction for nonpayment of rent generally requires a 7-day notice.
• Self-help evictions (e.g., changing locks without court order) are not allowed for legal tenants.

• If you are unsure about your legal status, contact the Nebraska Judicial Branch Landlord/Tenant Self-Help Center.

Advice: If you believe you are a tenant but are being threatened with immediate lockout, contact local legal aid or the Attorney General’s office right away.

Security Deposits and Fees

Tenants in Nebraska hotels and motels who fall under URLTA are protected by the same rules as other renters:

• Maximum deposit is one month’s rent, unless pets are involved (then up to 1.25 months).
• Deposits must be returned within 14 days of moving out, minus documented damages.

For rules, see Nebraska security deposit laws.

Key Official Forms for Motel/Hotel Tenants

• Notice to Quit (Eviction Notice)
  Form CC 2:3 – 7-Day Notice to Quit
  Use: Landlords must use this form to give 7 days’ notice when evicting for nonpayment of rent. If you receive this, you have seven days to pay or vacate. Present it in writing and keep a copy for your records.
• Complaint for Restitution of Premises (Eviction Lawsuit)
  Form CC 2:2 is filed by the landlord to start a legal eviction if you stay after notice expires. If you receive a court summons, attend the hearing with supporting documents.

Which Tribunal Handles Disputes?

Eviction and rental disputes in Nebraska are handled through the local County Court. Find your local court district using the Nebraska Judicial Branch – County Courts Directory.

FAQ: Hotel and Motel Tenancy in Nebraska

1. Can I be removed from a motel or hotel without notice in Nebraska?
   It depends on your status. If you are a short-term guest, the property may ask you to leave at any time. As a tenant (staying 30+ days with intent to reside), you must receive written notice per Nebraska law.
2. Do hotel and motel tenants get their deposit back?
   If the landlord holds a deposit and you are legally a tenant, your security deposit must be returned within 14 days, minus deductions, according to Nebraska’s deposit laws.
3. Is there a limit to how much rent can be charged weekly or monthly?
   Nebraska does not set a maximum rent for hotel or motel tenants, but your landlord cannot raise your rent mid-agreement unless otherwise stated in your contract.
4. Where can I file a complaint if I believe my rights were violated?
   You can contact the Nebraska Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or your local county court if formal eviction procedures were not followed.
5. Am I protected against lockouts or utility shutoffs?
   If you are recognized as a tenant, Nebraska law prohibits self-help evictions. The property cannot lock you out or turn off utilities without a court order.

Key Takeaways for Nebraska Hotel and Motel Renters

• If you make a hotel or motel your main home, Nebraska tenancy law may protect you.
• Eviction requires formal notice for tenants, but not for guests.
• Security deposits are regulated and must be returned within 14 days.

Understanding your status—guest or tenant—determines your rights and process. When in doubt, connect with the proper agencies or seek legal advice early.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nebraska Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Page – Information on tenant rights, complaint filing, and FAQs.
• Nebraska Judicial Branch Self-Help Center – Forms and guides for tenants and landlords, including eviction actions.
• Nebraska County Courts Directory – Find your local court for filing or responding to disputes.
• Legal Aid of Nebraska – Free or reduced-cost legal help for qualifying renters.

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1. Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Nebraska 7-Day Notice to Quit Form (CC 2:3)
3. Complaint for Restitution of Premises (CC 2:2)

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