ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Reno (2026)
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit requirements, fees, and process for Reno, NV. Find out if you need a permit and how to apply.
Yes, a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Reno, NV.
A ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Reno, NV. The City of Reno Community Development Department — Building and Safety handles permit applications for Reno. Below you will find the current thresholds, fees, and process for obtaining a adu (accessory dwelling unit) permit in Reno.
When Is a Permit Required?
When a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Is Required in Reno: All ADU construction
Permit Fees
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Fees in Reno: $1,000–$5,000. Estimated timeline: Up to 45 days (Nevada AB 383 requirement).
Estimated timeline: Up to 45 days (Nevada AB 383 requirement)
How to Get a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Reno
Verify whether your project meets the permit threshold in Reno: All ADU construction.
Prepare your permit application and plans. Contact the City of Reno Community Development Department — Building and Safety at https://reno.gov/government/departments/community-development-department for required documentation.
Submit your application online at https://cityofreno.viewpointcloud.com/ or in person at the City of Reno Community Development Department — Building and Safety.
Pay the permit fee: $1,000–$5,000.
Wait for plan check approval. Estimated timeline: Up to 45 days (Nevada AB 383 requirement).
Schedule required inspections through https://cityofreno.viewpointcloud.com/. All inspections must pass before project is finalized.
Important: Nevada AB 383 requires ministerial processing within 45 days of complete application. No public hearing permitted. Contact Reno Community Development for current fee schedule.
City of Reno Community Development Department — Building and Safety
Phone: (775) 334-2350
Website: https://reno.gov/government/departments/community-development-department
Online Permits: https://cityofreno.viewpointcloud.com/
Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30am-4:00pm
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: Reno Building Code — ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Requirements. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source