Nevada Zoning & Land Use Laws

Nevada ADU Law

Nevada has a statewide ADU law — Nevada AB 383 (2021) — Relating to Land Use — effective 2021-10-01. This law preempts local ordinances — cities and counties cannot impose restrictions stricter than the state standard. Key provisions include: Nevada AB 383 requires Nevada cities with populations over 25,000 to allow ADUs by right in single-family residential zones; ADUs must receive ministerial approval — no discretionary review, variance, or special use permit required; Municipalities may not require owner-occupancy of either the primary or accessory dwelling as a condition of ADU approval, and 4 more. The most recent amendment was AB 383 (2021): Nevada required cities with 25,000+ population to allow ADUs by right in single-family residential zones. Effective October 1, 2021. Addresses Nevada's rapid housing growth pressure, particularly in Clark County (Las Vegas) and Washoe County (Reno/Sparks).

Cottage Food Law

Nevada Cottage Food Law (Nevada Revised Statutes Section 446.870): Nevada allows home-based food production and direct-to-consumer sale of certain non-potentially-hazardous foods without a food establishment permit. Permitted products include baked goods, jams, jellies, candy, dried herbs, and similar shelf-stable items. Annual gross revenue limit of $35,000 per year. Direct-to-consumer sales from the home, at farmers markets, community events, and online with in-person delivery. No retail or wholesale distribution. Products must be labeled with: producer name and home address, product name, ingredient list in descending order, net weight, allergen information, and 'Made in a Home Kitchen Not Inspected by the Southern Nevada Health District or Washoe County Health District.' Producers must register with their local health district before beginning operations. Nevada cottage food operations require registration with the local health district (Southern Nevada Health District for Clark County; Washoe County Health District for Washoe County; other counties handled by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services). Nevada's $35,000 revenue cap is moderate for the Western region.

Recent Legislative Changes

Nevada Cities with Zoning Data