Can I Build Garage in Reno, NV? (2026)
Find out if you can build a garage in Reno, NV. Rules, permit requirements, costs, and next steps.
Building a detached garage in Reno, NV requires a building permit. Setback requirements and lot coverage limits apply.
Building a detached or attached garage in Reno, NV typically requires a building permit through the local building department. Garages are governed by the same structural permit requirements as room additions, plus setback requirements that vary by zone. Detached garages must comply with accessory structure setbacks in Reno, and total lot coverage (all covered structures combined) must not exceed zone limits.
Garage Rules in Reno
Garage Construction Rules in Reno: Permit required: Conditional depending on size. SF-R zone setbacks (typical): Front varies ft, Side varies ft, Rear varies ft. Check your zone's lot coverage limits — adding a garage may push total coverage over the maximum.
Costs & Fees
Contact the local building department at (775) 334-2063 for current permit fee information.
Next Steps
Next steps for building a garage in Reno: 1. Verify your zone setback requirements and lot coverage limits. 2. Prepare site plan showing garage location relative to property lines. 3. Submit a building permit application to the local building department. 4. Once approved, begin construction with required inspections at foundation, framing, and final.
City of Reno Community Development Department — Building and Safety
Phone: (775) 334-2063 · Verified July 6, 2026 · Source
Website: https://www.reno.gov/business-development/development-services/building-permits.php
Online Permits: https://cityofreno.viewpointcloud.com/
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU on my Reno property?
Yes. Nevada AB 383 (2021) requires Reno to allow ADUs by-right in single-family zones with ministerial approval — no variance or public hearing required. Reno must process ADU permits within 45 days of a complete application. ADUs are limited to 1,200 sqft. No owner-occupancy requirement. No additional parking required within 0.5 miles of a fixed transit stop.
How is Reno's housing market different from Las Vegas?
Reno and Las Vegas are both major Nevada cities but have very different housing markets. Reno is in northern Nevada (Washoe County) at approximately 4,500 ft elevation near the Sierra Nevada, while Las Vegas is in Clark County in the Mojave Desert. Reno's economy has diversified rapidly with tech industry relocation from the Bay Area (Tesla Gigafactory, Apple, Google). Housing costs in Reno have increased dramatically since 2015. Reno allows residential STRs in licensed form, unlike Las Vegas which banned residential STRs in 2022.
Are short-term rentals allowed in residential neighborhoods in Reno?
Yes. Unlike Las Vegas, which banned residential STRs in 2022, Reno allows short-term rentals in residential zones with a permit ($175/year). The property must be the operator's primary residence (owner must occupy for at least 9 months per year) in residential zones. Nevada Transient Lodging Tax applies to all STR rentals. STR permit number must be displayed in all listings.
What happened to Nevada's net metering for solar?
Nevada had a significant solar net metering controversy. In 2015, NV Energy drastically reduced net metering rates, causing solar installers to leave the state. The Nevada legislature reversed course in 2017 and restored favorable net metering rules in 2021, requiring NV Energy to offer retail-rate net metering for residential systems up to 150% of historical usage. As of 2024, Reno solar economics are favorable again. You'll need an electrical permit from Reno Community Development and an NV Energy interconnection agreement.
What should I know about Reno's flooding history before buying or building?
The Truckee River, which flows through downtown Reno and Sparks, has historically flooded. The most significant recent event was the January 1, 1997 flood that caused over $500 million in damage. The Truckee River Flood Control Project has significantly improved flood protection since then. Properties near the Truckee River and other drainageways should have flood zone status verified before purchase or construction. Check FEMA flood maps for your specific address.
Source: City of Reno Community Development Department — Building and Safety — Building Regulations. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source