Zoning Guide

Reno Zoning & Land Use Guide

Sources checked· 2026-03-22
Last updated: Verified:

Key Zoning Facts

Local Zoning / Building Office
City of Reno Community Development(775) 334-2060
Building Code Edition
2018 International Building Code (locally adopted)
ADU / Accessory Apartment
Yes
Example District
SF-6 — Single-Family 6,000
Max Height
35 ft

Regulatory Layers That Apply in Reno

Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.

Federal

State — Nevada

  • Building Code: No mandatory statewide residential code; local adoption
View Nevada zoning overview

County — Washoe County

  • Role: Property records, tax assessment, unincorporated area planning

City / Municipal

The municipality's zoning ordinance, building-code enforcement, and local permits form the primary local layer of land-use regulation for your property.

Overlay Districts

No overlay districts identified.

Private Restrictions

  • Private covenants, deed restrictions, condominium rules, or association rules can impose requirements beyond zoning.
  • Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.

Primary Zoning Districts

SF-6Single-Family 6,000
Min Lot
6,000 sq ft
Max Height
35 ft
Front Setback
20 ft
Side Setback
5 ft
Rear Setback
15 ft
MF-21Multi-Family 21 units/acre
Min Lot
6,000 sq ft
Max Height
45 ft
Front Setback
15 ft
Side Setback
10 ft
Rear Setback
20 ft
ACArterial Commercial
Min Lot
10,000 sq ft
Max Height
55 ft
Front Setback
10 ft
Side Setback
0 ft
Rear Setback
10 ft

ADU Rules in Reno

ADUs:Allowed
Max Size
1,000 sq ft
Max Height
25 ft
Rear Setback
5 ft
Side Setback
5 ft
Parking
1 off-street space required
Owner Occupancy
Owner must occupy primary or accessory unit
Permit Timeline
4-8 weeks
Full ADU rules for Reno →

Permit Costs & Timelines

Check Current Permit Fees & Timelines

Permit fees and review times can vary by project type, scope, valuation, and required approvals. Check the current schedule with the local permitting authority before filing.

Check current Reno permit information →

Official Sources

City-specific

City of Reno Community Developmentreno.govOfficial sourceReno Municipal Codelibrary.municode.comOfficial source

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I build an ADU in Reno?
Yes. Reno allows accessory dwelling units in residential zones. Nevada has no statewide ADU law, but Reno has adopted local provisions that permit ADUs subject to size, setback, and parking standards.
How do I find the zoning for my property in Reno?
Use the City of Reno online zoning map or contact Community Development at (775) 334-2060.
What zones allow multi-family housing in Reno?
Multi-family housing is allowed in MF-14, MF-21, MF-30, and various mixed-use and commercial zones.