ADU Rules in Reno, NV (2026)
ADU rules, permit requirements, size limits, and fees for Reno, NV. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Yes, ADUs are allowed in Reno, NV.
Reno, NV permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on residential properties. ADUs — also called granny flats, in-law units, backyard cottages, or secondary suites — are secondary housing units on a single-family or multifamily lot. State and local law governs the approval process. In Reno, the City of Reno Community Development Department — Building and Safety handles ADU permit applications. Below you will find the current size limits, setbacks, fees, and timeline for building an ADU in Reno.
ADU Size Limits
ADU Size Limits in Reno: Detached ADU: size varies by zoning — see official source (max height: varies — see official source). Attached ADU: size varies by zoning — see official source.
| Type | Max Size | Max Height |
|---|---|---|
| Detached ADU | See official source | See official source |
| Attached ADU | See official source | See official source |
Permit Fees
ADU Permit Fees in Reno: Plan check fee: $150–$800. Building permit fee: Based on construction value — typically $500–$2,500. Impact fees: Varies — Reno charges utility connection and development fees. School fees: None or N/A. Total estimated permit cost: Varies.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Plan Check | $150–$800 |
| Building Permit | Based on construction value — typically $500–$2,500 |
| Impact Fees | Varies — Reno charges utility connection and development fees |
| School Fees | None |
| Total Estimate | See official source |
Permit Timeline
Reno ADU Permit Timeline: City of Reno Community Development: plan review within 45 days required by Nevada AB 383. ADU permits must be processed as ministerial (no public hearing). Construction 3-8 months. Apply through the City of Reno Community Development Department — Building and Safety online permit portal. Phone: (775) 334-2350.
Setback Requirements
ADU Setback Requirements in Reno: Front setback: follows zone standard. Side setback: no minimum. Rear setback: no minimum.
Parking Requirements
Parking Requirements: No additional parking required for ADUs within one-half mile of a fixed transit stop per Nevada AB 383. 1 space per ADU otherwise. Reno Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) Ride bus routes serve much of Reno — verify proximity to fixed transit stops.
Restrictions & Requirements
- ADU must be on same lot as primary residence
- ADU cannot be sold separately from the primary lot
- Must comply with Reno Land Development Code setback and coverage standards
- Nevada AB 383 limits the ability to impose restrictions that effectively prohibit ADU construction
- Flood zone regulations may affect ADU siting near Truckee River and other waterways
How Many ADUs Are Allowed?
Number of ADUs Allowed in Reno: Single-family lots: 1 ADU per single-family lot per Nevada AB 383 minimum. Multifamily properties: Subject to zone density provisions. Nevada AB 383 establishes the minimum of 1 ADU per single-family lot. Reno's code complies with this minimum.
- Single-Family Lots
- 1 ADU per single-family lot per Nevada AB 383 minimum
- Multifamily Properties
- Subject to zone density provisions
Statewide Preemption
ADU Preemption
We could not confirm a statewide ADU preemption statute for Nevada.
View Nevada preemption detailsHistoric District Considerations
Historic District Requirements: Reno has 2 historic districts where additional design review may be required for ADU construction. Design review approval is required before obtaining a building permit for properties in historic overlay zones. Reno has a Downtown Historic District and the Newlands Heights neighborhood historic district. Historic Reno includes significant Virginia City-era and early 20th century architecture. The Reno Historic Resources Commission reviews exterior changes to designated properties. Note: most of Reno's historic gaming district has been demolished — the city has a complex relationship with historic preservation given its rapid redevelopment. Look up historic district boundaries at: https://www.reno.gov/community/arts-culture/historic-preservation/index.php
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Reno?
Yes. Reno, NV allows accessory dwelling units. On a single-family lot you can build 1 ADU per single-family lot per Nevada AB 383 minimum.
How big can an ADU be in Reno?
The maximum size for a detached ADU in Reno is 1,200 square feet.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Reno?
The typical ADU permit timeline in Reno is City of Reno Community Development: plan review within 45 days required by Nevada AB 383. ADU permits must be processed as ministerial (no public hearing). Construction 3-8 months.. Total estimated permit fees are $1,000–$5,000 total fees.
Do I need extra parking for an ADU in Reno?
Reno parking rules for ADUs: No additional parking required for ADUs within one-half mile of a fixed transit stop per Nevada AB 383. 1 space per ADU otherwise. Reno Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) Ride bus routes serve much of Reno — verify proximity to fixed transit stops.
Do I have to live on-site to have an ADU in Reno?
Owner-occupancy requirement in Reno: No owner-occupancy requirement. Nevada AB 383 explicitly prohibits cities from requiring owner-occupancy of either the primary or accessory dwelling as a condition of ADU approval.
Source: Reno Municipal Code Title 18 — Land Development Code; Nevada AB 383 (2021). Last verified April 6, 2026. View source